Medindia LOGIN REGISTER
Medindia
Advertisement

Calcium Through Diet or Supplements? Which is More Beneficial?

by Julia Samuel on October 13, 2017 at 12:39 PM
Calcium Through Diet or Supplements? Which is More Beneficial?

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.

Advertisement


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 may be obtained from food or supplements containing calcium salts. Most people should be able to get enough calcium through healthy eating, but this is not always the case. Diets in Southern European have less dairy products than in Northern countries.
Advertisement

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
Font : A-A+

Advertisement

Advertisement
Advertisement

Recommended Readings

Latest Diet & Nutrition News

Swap Pulses For Protein & Grains for a Nutritious American Diet
The nutritional profile of American diet can be significantly improved by substituting small amounts of pulses for refined grains and common protein sources.
Limiting Obesity-Linked Isoleucine in Diet Promotes Healthy Aging
Lowering the intake of isoleucine in diet can extend lifespan, promote a slim body, anti-aging properties, and reduce cancer and prostate health issues.
Expert Guidance on Thanksgiving Leftovers
Keep Thanksgiving leftovers safe: Refrigerate promptly, use airtight containers, label and date, and reheat properly.
How Nutrition Overcomes Anxiety, Depression & Diabetes?
Poor nutrition raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, and mental issues like anxiety and depression. Nutrition interventions aid in managing these health issues.
Micronutrient Deficiencies as a Silent Driver of Global Antibiotic Resistance
Micronutrient deficiencies may play a crucial role in the worldwide surge of antibiotic resistance.
View All
This site uses cookies to deliver our services.By using our site, you acknowledge that you have read and understand our Cookie Policy, Privacy Policy, and our Terms of Use  Ok, Got it. Close
×

Calcium Through Diet or Supplements? Which is More Beneficial? Personalised Printable Document (PDF)

Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested

You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends.

Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice.

Name *

Email Address *

Country *

Areas of Interests