Principle Healthcare continues to promote calcium supplements despite the recent negative press

Dr Carrie Ruxton from HSIS (Health Supplements Information Service) speaking in response to the report said: “It is important to note that calcium is an essential mineral for the health of the bones and the nervous system. Ensuring adequate intake is vital. However, the latest data from the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey showed that one in ten young women have calcium intakes below the Lower Reference Nutrient Intake (LRNI), a level at which deficiency is likely. Calcium supplementation can help to ensure adequate intakes in such people with poor intakes.”

The BMJ report refers to the use of calcium supplements by older people. It is important to note that Calcium is an important structural component of bone and teeth and is essential at all stages of development.

Adequate calcium intake throughout childhood and adolescence is needed to achieve maximum peak bone mass in young adulthood which is an important determinant of bone mineral status in later life. The growth, development and maintenance of bone and teeth is related to the quantity of dietary calcium consumed and recommended intakes of calcium to meet requirements for growth, development and maintenance of bone at all ages have been established by various authorities. Inadequate dietary calcium intake may contribute to impaired bone development in early life and to the accelerated loss of bone mass in adults and in older people.