BMJ ·
Calcium and vitamin D supplements may offer less protection against fractures and falls than many older adults expect.
A major review published in The BMJ, covering 69 randomised trials and more than 153,000 adults, found that calcium and vitamin D supplements — alone or together — offered little to no meaningful benefit in preventing fractures and falls for most older adults.
The findings challenge the idea that routine supplementation alone can protect bone health, while highlighting the importance of balance and resistance exercise, nutrition and personalised medical advice.
This does not mean you should stop prescribed supplements. People with osteoporosis, deficiencies or specific medical conditions may have different needs.
A useful reminder: bone health is more than just calcium and vitamin D.