|
|
It’s pretty common for women to take calcium supplements, but men would be wise to follow suit. Men's bones benefit from calcium supplementation just as much as women's do, a new study in the Archives of Internal Medicine shows.
The study found that men age 40 and over who were given calcium supplements saw increased bone mineral density scores and lower risk of falling. That’s important because 30 percent of older men will suffer a fracture caused by fragile bones.
Researchers at the University of Auckland in New Zealand randomly assigned 323 healthy men ages 40 or older to a placebo, 600 mg of calcium or 1,200 mg of calcium daily. Within six months, the men in the 1,200 mg group saw their bone mineral density (BMD) increase by 1 percent. And that increase lasted for the entire two years of the study. These men also were significantly less likely to fall than those taking placebo or the 600 mg calcium dose.
The researchers conclude that, “a daily calcium dosage in the region of 1 g is necessary to achieve a BMD benefit in men, and it seems preferable to give this as at least two doses.”
Talk to your doctor before starting any new supplements.
SOURCE: Archives of Internal Medicine; National Library of Medicine 47779
12/08
The information provided is intended to help you make informed decisions. The Genworth Financial companies do not provide medical information, advice or recommendations. Consult your physician before making major changes in your lifestyle or health care regimen. Please note that Wellness partners, their products, services, and offers may change over time.
|
|
