According to new research, deficiency of calcium and vitamin D in the body lead to a higher risk of developing the condition of osteoporosis and poor bone health. The findings of the research have been published in the journal PLOS ONE. The researchers in the study analysed the relationship between inadequate nutrient intake of calcium and vitamin and poor bone health and risk of developing osteoporosis in people who are more than 50 years of age.
Study author, Susan Hazels Mitmesser from Pharmavite LLC said, “This study continues to demonstrate how prevalent nutrient deficiency is among the US population, and even more so, among lower-income individuals and those with food insecurities”.
She added, “Yet, we know that nutrient adequacy is imperative in supporting overall health and wellness, including immune health, at a time when that is heavy on everyone’s mind”.
According to the findings of the study, about 25 per cent of elderly American fall under the below poverty line of which 68 per cent and 46 per cent people have inadequate intake of calcium and vitamin D in their body respectively. Gender, ethnic, and socio-economic differences are the detrimental factor in risk for inadequate calcium and vitamin D intake and also for developing osteoporosis.
The researchers said, “Improving the consumption of nutrient-rich and fortified foods among individuals that live in poverty can help to decrease their chances of developing osteoporosis”.
They added, “Additionally, dietary supplements can play a critical role in helping any underserved population meet their nutrition needs”.