Older women with higher blood levels of vitamin D are less likely to suffer hip fractures, according to research published in the August 19, 2008 issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine.
In this new study, the researchers examined the relationship between blood levels of vitamin D and hip fracture risk by comparing 400 women who suffered hip fractures to 400 women who had never broken a bone.
All the women were post-menopausal, and none were taking estrogen or other potentially bone-building medications.
Hip fracture risk rose steadily as blood levels of vitamin D fell. Women with less than 47.5 nanomoles of vitamin D per litre of blood were 71 percent more likely to have fractured their hips than women with higher blood levels of this bone-building nutrient.
Inadequate levels of the "sunshine vitamin" is common among older adults, particularly in the winter months. To overcome this, older adults who lack sun exposure are advised to take a vitamin D supplement all year round.
The Canadian Cancer Society recommends consuming 1,000 international units of vitamin D every day.
To determine the dose of vitamin D you need, add up how much you're already getting from your multivitamin and calcium supplements. Choose a vitamin D supplement that contains vitamin D-3, instead of vitamin D-2 which is less potent.
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.