High-dose vitamin D supplements costing less than one pound ($1.58) a year could reduce fractures in the elderly by more than 20%, UK researchers said.
The brittle-bone disease osteoporosis is common among the elderly, but scientists at the University of Cambridge in England have shown that large doses of vitamin D, taken only every four months, can cut the risk of broken bones among 65 to 85 year olds. Total fracture incidence was reduced by 22 percent and fractures in major osteroporotic sites by 33 percent.
Fractures of the hip, wrist and spine are most closely linked to osteoporosis.
The research team said the result has important implications for public health policy-makers because they show vitamin D supplements can prevent fractures on their own.
Previous research had found that vitamin D was effective when patients took it with calcium. Studies have also tended to focus on women, who are four times more likely than men to suffer from osteoporosis.
The team found the vitamin supplement, taken once every four months for five years, helped women more than men. Women taking the supplement were 32% less likely to have a fracture, while only 17% fewer men broke bones if they took the supplement. The researchers followed 2,686 people for five years. Half were given vitamin D tablets, while the other half received placebos.
Although osteoporosis affects both men and women, it is much more common in women, mainly because of the decreased production of the hormone estrogen after menopause. In the first five years after the menopause women can lose up to 15% of their total bone mass.
All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.