A study by researchers at Canada’s McGill University and published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism suggests that increased intake of calcium may prolong women’s lives.
The researchers set out to examine the benefits and risks of calcium and vitamin D, which are recommended for bone health. Some clinical studies have indicated that calcium intake may be cardioprotective, whereas others report increased risk associated with calcium supplements.
Both low and high serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D have been associated with increased mortality.
The Canadian Multicentre Osteoporosis Study cohort is a population-based longitudinal cohort with a 10-year follow-up (1995–2007), and included randomly selected community-dwelling men and women. Participants: A total of 9,033 participants with non-missing calcium and vitamin D intake data and follow-up were studied. Total calcium intake (dairy, non-dairy food, and supplements) and total vitamin D intake (milk, yoghurt, and supplements) were recorded.
There were 1,160 deaths during the 10-year period. For women only, the researchers found a possible benefit of higher total calcium intake. Use of calcium supplements was also associated with reduced mortality. No definitive associations were found among men.
The researchers concluded that calcium supplements, up to 1000 mg/d, and increased dietary intake of calcium may be associated with reduced risk of mortality in women. They found no evidence of mortality benefit or harm associated with vitamin D intake.
