Can vitamin D reduce the risk of falls and fractures in healthy older adults?

Vitamin D has always been thought to reduce the risk of falls and fractures in the general population. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in bone and muscle health. It has only been shown in a small group of patients that it can be effective in reducing the risk of falls and fractures.

Vitamin D promotes the absorption of calcium and phosphate in the intestines, which are essential for strong bones. It prevents osteomalacia (softening of the bones) and helps reduce osteoporosis (bone loss), which reduces the risk of fractures.

Vitamin D plays a role in muscle function. A deficiency can lead to muscle weakness, which increases the risk of falls. Adequate vitamin D levels improve muscle strength and balance, which is important for preventing falls.

Not all studies show that vitamin D supplements, especially when combined with calcium, can reduce the risk of hip fractures and other bone fractures in healthy older people.

People who are immobile, in an institution or have dark skin, in particular, produce less vitamin D through sunlight. This can be determined by a blood test.

Vitamin D and calcium are essential for overall health, but do not reduce the risk of falls or fractures in healthy older adults, according to a new draft recommendation from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.

Source: https://www.uspreventiveservicestaskforce.org/uspstf/

Author: Prof. Dr. Dirk Devroey - Latest update: 2024-12-19 - Copyright: Clinifacts 2024