A major new analysis of nearly 154,000 adults shows that calcium and vitamin D supplements provide little to no protection against fractures or falls for most older people. The findings, published in The BMJ, challenge long-standing recommendations for routine use of these supplements.
Researchers in Canada reviewed data from 69 randomized controlled trials. They found moderate to high certainty evidence that calcium supplements alone, vitamin D supplements alone, or the two combined do not reduce overall fracture risk, hip fractures, or falls in a clinically meaningful way.
The analysis covered 153,902 adults and accounted for factors such as age, sex, prior fractures, and dietary calcium intake. Results remained consistent across these subgroups.
The authors concluded that the evidence does not support routine supplementation to prevent fractures and falls. They called on clinicians, guideline panels, and regulatory agencies to re-evaluate current recommendations.
A linked editorial suggested redirecting resources toward proven strategies like balance training and resistance exercise instead.
