Research
Micronutrients & recovery
Vitamin D supplementation, particularly when combined with calcium, reduces hip and non-vertebral fracture risk in elderly institutionalized populations, likely through improved neuromuscular function rather than solely bone mineral density changes.
For elderly individuals, especially those in care facilities or with limited sun exposure, daily supplementation with 800 IU of Vitamin D and 1200 mg of Calcium significantly reduces the risk of hip and other fractures. This benefit appears to come partly from improved muscle function and balance, not just stronger bones.
GoodSupportsHIGH confidence
In the largest trial of its kind, 3270 women aged 86 (SD6) years in French nursing homes were randomised to 1200 mg calcium and 800 IU (20 mg) vitamin D per day or placebo... After 3 years the incidence of hip fractures in the treated group was 29% lower ( P < 0.01) and of all non-vertebral fractures 24% lower ( P < 0.01), than in the placebo group.
Why this rating
Based on large randomized controlled trials (RCTs) with significant fracture endpoints, though results vary by population status.
Source
Diet, nutrition and the prevention of osteoporosis
Ann Prentice · Public Health Nutrition · 2004
narrative_reviewCited 338×
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