Calcium tablets for women
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Calcium Tablets for Women: Benefits, Safety, and Preferences
Introduction to Calcium Supplementation for Women
Calcium is a crucial mineral for maintaining bone health, particularly in women who are at higher risk for osteoporosis and bone density loss as they age. Various forms of calcium supplements, including tablets, powders, and chewables, are available to meet different needs and preferences. This article synthesizes research findings on the effectiveness, safety, and acceptability of calcium tablets for women.
Preference and Acceptability of Calcium Tablets
Conventional Tablets vs. Other Forms
Research conducted in Dhaka, Bangladesh, evaluated the preference and acceptability of different forms of prenatal calcium supplements among pregnant women. The study found that conventional calcium tablets were significantly more preferred and accepted compared to chewable tablets, flavored powder, and unflavored powder. Conventional tablets had a 62% probability of being selected daily, indicating higher palatability and ease of use .
Safety of Calcium Tablets
Long-term Safety in Elderly Women
A study on the safety of a combination calcium and vitamin D tablet over one year in elderly women with vitamin D insufficiency showed that the supplementation was well tolerated. Although there were some treatment-related adverse events, such as hypercalcemia and gastrointestinal disorders, no major complications were directly linked to the supplementation. However, there was a significant increase in serum uric acid levels in the calcium + vitamin D group compared to the placebo group 23.
Pharmacokinetics in Postmenopausal Women
A study on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of calcium-vitamin D3 chewable tablets in postmenopausal women demonstrated increased intestinal calcium absorption and decreased serum parathyroid hormone levels, indicating effective calcium uptake. This suggests that chewable tablets are also a viable option for calcium supplementation .
Nutritional Impact of Calcium Tablets
Comparison with Skim Milk Powder
A four-year longitudinal study compared the nutritional effects of calcium tablets and skim milk powder in postmenopausal women. Both forms of supplementation led to calcium intakes above the recommended dietary intakes and reduced dietary fat intake and plasma cholesterol levels. However, compliance was higher with calcium tablets compared to milk powder, making tablets a more practical option for long-term use .
Bone Density and Fracture Prevention
Calcium supplementation has been shown to reduce bone loss and fractures in postmenopausal women. A randomized controlled trial found that calcium tablets, either alone or combined with exercise, significantly reduced bone loss at various hip sites and the tibia. The combination of calcium and exercise was particularly effective at the femoral neck site . Another long-term study confirmed that calcium supplementation reduced the rate of bone density loss and the incidence of fractures over a four-year period .
Conclusion
Calcium tablets are a highly preferred and effective form of supplementation for women, particularly for those at risk of bone density loss and fractures. They are well-tolerated over long periods, although monitoring for potential increases in serum uric acid is advisable. Compared to other forms of calcium supplements, tablets offer better compliance and consistent intake, making them a practical choice for long-term use.
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