The more the better?
The results of a 19-year-long study of 61,433 women showed that consuming more than the recommended daily amount of calcium did not offer any protection from osteoporosis and hip fractures. Women who consumed at least 750mg calcium per day (recommended daily dose is 1,000mg) were not at a higher risk of osteoporosis or fractures than women consuming more. The rate of hip fracture was even increased in those with high dietary calcium intakes. The best plant sources of calcium include: nuts and seeds (especially sesame seeds), green leafy vegetables, beans, figs, apricots, molasses.
Warensjӧ, E., Byberg, L., Melhus, H., et al., 2011. Dietary calcium intake and risk of fracture and osteoporosis: prospective longitudinal cohort study. Bristish Medical Journal. 342:d1473.
About the author
Dr. Justine Butler
Justine joined Viva! in 2005 after graduating from Bristol University with a PhD in molecular biology. After working as a campaigner, then researcher and writer, she is now Viva!’s head of research and her work focuses on animals, the environment and health. Justine’s scientific training helps her research and write both in-depth scientific reports, such as White Lies and the Meat Report, as well as easy-to-read factsheets and myth-busting articles for consumer magazines and updates on the latest research. Justine also recently wrote the Vegan for the Planet guide for Viva!’s Vegan Now campaign.
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