Skip to main content
ARS Home » Northeast Area » Boston, Massachusetts » Jean Mayer Human Nutrition Research Center On Aging » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #222299
Title: Calcium and Vitamin D

Author
item Dawson-Hughes, Bess

Submitted to: American Society for Bone and Mineral Research
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/15/2007
Publication Date: 12/5/2008
Citation: Dawson-Hughes, B. 2008. Calcium and Vitamin D. In: Rosen, C.J., editor. ASBMR Primer on the Metabolic Bone Diseases and Disorder of Mineral Metabolism. 7th edition. Washington, DC: The American Society for Bone and Mineral Research. p.231-233.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Adequate intakes of vitamin D and calcium are essential preventative measures and essential components of any therapeutic regimen for osteoporosis. Vitamin D is also important for the prevention of falls. Current evidence suggests that a 25-hydroxyvitamin D level of 75 nmol/L (30 ng/ml) or higher along with an adequate calcium intake is needed to reduce risk of falls, reduce rates of bone loss, and lower fracture risk. The average older person will need 20 to 25 mcg (800 to 1000 IU) per day of vitamin D3 to reach this level. Many men and women will need supplements to meet the intake requirements.