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Osteoporosis, often called "brittle bone disease," is a condition in which bones become fragile and are more likely to break. When you don't get enough calcium to support bodily functions such as muscle contraction and blood clotting, your body takes what it needs from your bones. Over time, this can lead to pitted, porous and brittle bones - osteoporosis.
The disease can develop from calcium deficiency, poor diet, tobacco use or lack of exercise. It occurs in both women and men. |
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The National Osteoporosis Foundation recommends 1200 mg of calcium daily for women and men over 51 years of age.
The daily Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) recommended by the National Academy of Sciences for women and men are:
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19-50 yrs of age -1000 mg
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51-70+ yrs of age - 1200 mg
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While adequate calcium intake is important, daily intakes above 2000 mg are not likely to provide any additional benefit.
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Yes, women experiencing menopause generally need increased amounts of calcium due to bone loss associated with menopause. While estrogen protects the skeletal system by promoting the deposit of calcium in bones, those taking estrogen typically still require a calcium supplement. Estrogen is not a substitute for calcium. More specific questions about estrogen should be directed to your physician. |
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