Vitamin D, with or without calcium, does not prevent fractures regardless of dose or previous fracture, in people living in the community.1
However, it was shown that for frail elderly women in long-term care, fracture risk was reduced by about one-quarter with vitamin D plus calcium.2 This was probably attributable to the correction of vitamin D deficiency since meta-analyses of calcium, with or without vitamin D, do not show fracture prevention in community-dwelling populations. Vitamin D prevents osteomalacia in those deprived of sunlight.
This Gem was reviewed by Ian Reid, Endocrinologist and Distinguished Professor, The University of Auckland.
