Vitamin D and Calcium Don’t Prevent Falls or Fractures in Older Adults, Health Panel Finds: Alternative Measures Recommended
Vitamin D and Calcium Don’t Prevent Falls or Fractures in Older Adults, Health Panel Finds: Alternative Measures Recommended
Vitamin D and calcium are crucial for overall health but do not lower the risk of falls or fractures in generally healthy older adults, according to a draft recommendation by the US Preventive Services Task Force.
The panel advises against relying on supplemental vitamin D and calcium for this purpose, extending its guidance for the first time to include men. While older adults may still need these nutrients for overall health, other strategies should be considered to reduce fall and fracture risks.
In 2018, the task force recommended against daily supplementation of 400 IU or less of vitamin D and 1,000 mg or less of calcium for fracture prevention in postmenopausal women, citing insufficient evidence for men. The new draft recommendation updates this guidance, advising against supplementation for men aged 60 and older and removing specific dosage references.
The draft, open for public comment on the task force’s website through January 21, reflects updated findings. “Earlier studies didn’t include enough male participants,” said Dr. Goutham Rao, a task force member. “Now, sufficient evidence shows supplementation isn’t effective for prevention.” Rao also noted that while higher doses of vitamin D and calcium were examined, no level was linked to significant benefits for preventing falls or fractures. However, he emphasized that vitamin D and calcium remain essential for overall health.
“Vitamin D helps absorb calcium and supports the immune system, brain health, and muscle performance,” said Rao. “The National Academy of Medicine offers clear recommendations for daily intake to maintain bone and brain health. The key message is that supplementation doesn’t prevent falls or fractures, but these nutrients are still vital for other health needs.”
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