Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements Offer Little Protection Against Falls, Study Finds

Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements Offer Little Protection Against Falls, Study Finds

21 May 2026

The study, published in the British Medical Journal, analysed 69 clinical trials comparing calcium, vitamin D, or a combination of both against placebo or no treatment.

Most participants were living in the community and were not at high risk of fractures or falls.

Researchers found very little benefit overall, with no meaningful reduction in falls or fractures. They concluded that routine use of calcium and vitamin D supplements does not provide clinically significant protection for most older adults.

The authors also suggested that current guideline recommendations may need to be reviewed in light of the findings.

However, Australian experts say the results should be interpreted with caution.

Associate Professor Joel Rhee from the University of New South Wales said the findings support existing guidance that calcium and vitamin D should not be routinely recommended for all older people in the community to prevent falls or fractures.

He noted that the benefit is likely small for most people.

He also said there are important exceptions, including people in residential aged care, those with vitamin D deficiency, and people with certain bone conditions or those already receiving osteoporosis treatment.

Experts emphasised that supplementation may still be appropriate in specific high-risk groups or where dietary intake is low.

They also highlighted that fall prevention should focus more on proven strategies such as exercise, balance training, risk assessment, and appropriate medical treatment for osteoporosis.

The review adds to growing evidence that targeted interventions are more effective than routine supplementation in preventing falls and fractures in older adults. 

https://www1.racgp.org.au/

 
Source: British Medical Journal (BMJ), review of 69 randomised controlled trials

Categories

Popular Posts

Recent Posts

Tags