BYU Gerontology Blog

BYU Gerontology Blog
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Tuesday, March 4, 2014

Vitamin D May Prevent Fractures in Elderly

A recent report in the New England Journal of Medicine suggests that high doses of Vitamin D can reduce the risk of hip fractures in elderly by 30%. Other types of fractures were reduced by 14%. Since half of all seniors with hip fractures never regain full mobility, reducing the likelihood of fractures is vital.

While researchers have been studying the benefits of Vitamin D for years, most have failed to consider the base level present in the subjects. This tended to skew their results - once the required level is achieved, adding more Vitamin D produces no benefit.

Scientists also discovered that calcium doses over 1,000 mg per day  can reduce the benefit of Vitamin D - so many common supplements may send people over the limit. The Institute of Medicine recommends 1,000 to 1,200 mg of calcium per day and 600 to 800 IU of Vitamin D for adults.

If you have questions about how this research affects you or your loved ones, it's best to consult your physician. Once the appropriate treatment plan is available, it can easily be included in the care plan developed by a home care agency.

Read more about this here.

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