By IANS
Melbourne : Taking regular calcium supplements could reduce bone damage in people particularly those who are above 50, say scientists.
People are more susceptible to bone fractures, sometimes with dire consequences, as they grow old.
The scientists from the University of Western Sydney suggest that daily calcium supplements would prevent one in four fractures in this age group.
They reached their conclusion after a three and a half year study examining the combined results of 17 studies involving more than 50,000 people over 50, who were given calcium supplements.
The researchers recommended a minimum daily dose of 1,200 mg in the case of calcium-only supplementation. The benefit appeared to be more apparent in elderly people over 70 with a low body weight living in institutions, reported science portal News Medical.
They discovered that supplements reduced the risk of fractures by 12 percent but when the proper dose of 1,200 mg was taken every day the risk was reduced by 24 percent.
Lead author Benjamin Tang says the advice may be optional for those who are fit, healthy and have a very good diet at 50, but those on a poorer diet who are older would gain more benefit.
Experts say people should be able to get all the necessary calcium from a balanced diet and nowadays many cereals, breads and margarines are fortified with calcium.