Popular Bone Supplements May Not Prevent Fractures, Major Review Finds
A large-scale review published by The BMJ indicates that calcium and vitamin D supplements do not offer meaningful protection against falls or fractures for most older adults. The analysis suggests that current supplementation recommendations should be re-evaluated. Experts now emphasize the importance of nutrition, exercise, and personalized care.
What changed
A 2026 BMJ meta-analysis of nearly 154,000 people confirms limited benefit of calcium and vitamin D supplements.
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Major Review Finds Bone Supplements Provide Little Protection Against Fractures
confidence 100%A large-scale review published by The BMJ indicates that calcium and vitamin D supplements do not offer meaningful protection against falls or fractures for most older adults. The analysis suggests that current supplementation recommendations should be re-evaluated. Experts now emphasize the importance of nutrition, exercise, and personalized care.
What's confirmed:
- A BMJ meta-analysis of 153,902 adults found that calcium, vitamin D, or combined supplements provide little to no clinically meaningful benefit for fracture and fall prevention in most older people.
- The review examined 69 trials.
- Calcium and vitamin D supplements have been promoted for years as a way for older adults to prevent falls and protect bones.