
A new clinical guide with the aim of raising awareness of the importance of
calcium in lowering the risk of osteoporosis has been published by the European
Menopause and Andropause Society (EMAS).
Osteoporosis is common and affects 1 in 3 women. Calcium is vital for strong
healthy bones and worldwide scientific societies have issued guidance about the
daily requirements from childhood to old age.
The recommended daily intake of calcium after menopause varies between 700 and 1,200 mg, depending on the endorsing society. It is uncertain whether excessive intake can cause harm. Some epidemiological studies have raised concern about possible cardiovascular risk, dementia or even, paradoxically, fracture.
Calcium rich foods
The best sources of calcium are milk and all products made from milk like yogurt, cottage cheese, cheese, buttermilk, lassi.
Fish - especially the small ones like sardine with edible bones. Broccoli, kale, spinach, turnips, bok choy (Chinese cabbage), cabbage and asparagus are good sources. Dried fruits, oat meal and seeds are fair sources of calcium.
Data from the NHANES database in the USA showed that less than one third of women aged 9 to 71 consumed enough calcium. Supplements are poorly tolerated and therefore not usually taken long term.
Another reason for concern are the rates of over prescription of supplements above the recommended upper level of 2,000 mg/day. For example, one study found that 29% of supplements were over prescribed.
EMAS confirms that calcium is an essential part of the diet from childhood to old age, and that an approximate assessment of intake should be part of routine health checks. Women need to be more calcium-aware and mindful of calcium-rich foods. But more is not better, and women should be warned that intakes above the recommended levels may be useless or, although still debated, may cause harm.
Source: Eurekalert
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