Research published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine suggests that postmenopausal women who take calcium and vitamin D supplements may have a lower risk of death from cancer but a higher risk of death from cardiovascular disease. The study followed over 36,000 postmenopausal women and found a 7% lower risk of cancer death and a 6% higher risk of cardiovascular disease death among those who took the supplements.
However, experts caution that these results should be interpreted carefully. It is important for women to discuss with their doctor whether taking calcium and vitamin D supplements is appropriate for them. The study authors noted that future research is needed to determine the specific benefits or harms of supplementation with calcium and vitamin D in combination or vitamin D alone.
Postmenopausal women are often recommended to take calcium and vitamin D supplements to prevent bone loss, as estrogen levels decrease during menopause, reducing calcium absorption and leading to a higher risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Women over 50 are recommended to consume 1,200mg of calcium daily. Hormone replacement therapy can also be beneficial for protecting bone health, but it may not be an option for women with certain medical conditions, such as breast cancer.
Previous observational studies have shown that calcium supplements may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease events, particularly for those who consume more than 1,400mg of calcium per day. This risk is heightened by low estrogen levels in menopause, which raise the risk of heart disease and stroke. It is important for women to consider their individual risk factors and discuss with their healthcare provider whether calcium and vitamin D supplementation is appropriate for them.
Overall, it is essential for women to focus on maintaining their bone health during and after menopause through various strategies, including weight-bearing exercise, a healthy diet, and potentially supplementation with calcium and vitamin D. However, the decision to take supplements should be personalized based on individual medical history and risk factors. Lifestyle factors such as staying active and avoiding smoking are also important for overall health during menopause.
In conclusion, research suggests that calcium and vitamin D supplements may have both benefits and risks for postmenopausal women, with a potential reduction in cancer deaths but an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Women should discuss with their healthcare provider whether supplementation is appropriate based on their individual health needs and risk factors. Maintaining bone health through various strategies is essential during and after menopause to prevent osteoporosis and fractures. Future research is needed to better understand the effects of calcium and vitamin D supplementation on cancer and cardiovascular outcomes.
