Calcium, Vitamin D Ineffective for Fractures

A comprehensive review and meta-analysis published in The BMJ, led by researchers including Olivier Massé from Sacred Heart Hospital of Montreal, concluded that calcium and vitamin D supplements, taken alone or in combination, offer little to no clinically meaningful benefit in preventing fractures and falls in most older adults. The study analyzed data from 69 randomized controlled trials involving 153,902 participants. This challenges current widespread recommendations by clinicians, guidelines, and regulatory agencies for these supplements for bone health. An accompanying editorial by experts like Guylène Thériault from Université de Montréal suggests redirecting focus and funding towards proven interventions such as balance and resistance exercises.