The effect of calcium supplementation on bone loss in 32 controlled trials in postmenopausal women

© International Osteoporosis Foundation and National Osteoporosis Foundation 2009SummaryIn 32 controlled trials of calcium supplementation (700-2000 mg) in 3,169 postmenopausal women, mean bone loss in the controls was -1.07% p.a. and in the treated subjects -0.27% p.a. (P for difference IntroductionWe have reviewed 32 trials of calcium supplementation in 3,169 postmenopausal women.MethodsWe found 24 publications reporting 32 controlled trials lasting at least 1 year, which provided annual percentage changes in bone mass or density at one or more sites in the calcium-treated and control subjects.ResultsThe median calcium supplement was 1,000 mg, median duration of the trials 2 years and total number of sites measured 79. The average of the mean rates of change in bone mass or density was -1.07% p.a. (P ConclusionCalcium supplementation of about 1,000 mg daily has a significant preventive effect on bone loss in postmenopausal women for at least 4 years.B. E. C. Nordi