Study of 154,000 Adults Finds Vitamin D, Calcium Supplements Do Little to Prevent Fractures
Updated
Updated · Medical News Today · Jun 26
Study of 154,000 Adults Finds Vitamin D, Calcium Supplements Do Little to Prevent Fractures
3 articles · Updated · Medical News Today · Jun 26
Summary
A review of 69 clinical trials covering nearly 154,000 adults found little to no reduction in overall fractures, hip fractures or falls from vitamin D, calcium, or both versus placebo or no treatment.
The findings suggest supplements alone are not an effective prevention strategy for most older adults, despite the long-standing focus on both nutrients for bone health.
Doctors cited in the report said the results should not prompt patients to stop prescribed treatment, noting supplements may still matter for people with vitamin D deficiency, osteoporosis, kidney disease or very low calcium intake.
Experts said stronger protection comes from a broader plan—strength and balance training, impact or resistance exercise, adequate nutrition, home-safety changes, and vision, hearing and medication checks.
The study adds to evidence that fracture prevention depends on reducing fall risk and maintaining bone density through multiple measures, especially as aging and menopause accelerate bone loss.