Vitamin D and Calcium Do Not Reduce Risk of Falls or Fractures in Older Adults, Study Finds
A new draft recommendation from the US Preventive Services Task Force has found that vitamin D and calcium supplements do not reduce the risk of falls or fractures in generally healthy older adults. The task force, which is an independent group of experts, recommends against supplementing with vitamin D and calcium for the primary prevention of fractures in postmenopausal women and men aged 60 or older.
The task force conducted a systematic review of research and found that supplementation with vitamin D showed no net benefit for the primary prevention of fractures and falls in this age group. The review also found that supplementation with vitamin D with or without calcium can increase the incidence of kidney stones, although the magnitude of this harm was assessed as small.
The recommendation is consistent with a recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, which found that taking vitamin D supplements did not result in a significantly lower risk of fractures among middle-age and older adults. The study found that consuming 2,000 IU of supplemental vitamin D3 without calcium over a period of more than five years did not reduce total fractures, hip, wrist, or pelvic fractures when compared with taking a daily placebo.
Despite the lack of evidence supporting the use of vitamin D and calcium supplements for fracture prevention, the task force emphasized the importance of vitamin D and calcium for overall health. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium, and both nutrients are essential for bone health, brain function, and immune system function.
To reduce the risk of falls and fractures, the task force recommends a combination of lifestyle changes, including regular exercise, improving balance, and screening for osteoporosis. Individuals can also take steps to reduce their risk of falls, such as having their vision and hearing tested, using assistive devices like canes or walkers, and taking extra caution when walking on wet or icy surfaces.
The draft recommendation is available on the task force’s website and will be open for public comment until January 21.