Despite greater awareness of calcium’s fundamental role in bone health and increased use of calcium supplements, new research says Americans still don’t get enough calcium. The study analyzed data from over 9000 Americans who participated in the 2003-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES).  The researchers evaluated both dietary and supplemental sources across adult age groups and compared that with accompanying patterns in energy intake which tends to decline with age.

They found that 51 percent of all individuals over 19 years of age were taking a calcium supplement. The percentage of individuals taking calcium supplements also increased with age. Supplement use rose among men from 34 percent in the 19-30 age group to 54 percent in the 81 and older group.  In women, the percentages rose from 42 percent to 64 percent.

But, while calcium supplement use increases with age, the study reported that “energy intake” or overall food consumption decreases with age and reduces dietary calcium intake. Men's energy intake declined by 35 percent from the 19-30 age group to the 80 and over age group. For women, energy intake declined 28 percent from the youngest to oldest age group.

After combining supplemental and dietary calcium amounts, only 15 percent of men and 8 percent of women over 71 years of age had met the adequate Intake levels of calcium defined by the Institute of Medicine (IA).  NHANES data indicates that other groups falling below desirable intakes include girls aged 9–13 years and 14–18 years, women aged 51–70 years, and both men and women older than 70 years. Overall, females are less likely than males to get recommended intakes of calcium from food.

The Institute of Medicine defines the Adequate Intake (AI) of calcium as:

• 1,000 mg/day for individuals aged 19 to 50 years and
• 1,200 mg/day for persons older than age 51 years.

To make sure you’re getting enough calcium in your diet, use a calcium calculator to estimate how much calcium you are getting through your diet. Then discuss calcium and Vitamin D supplementation with your doctor to “make-up” for any dietary gaps. Vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption and while your body can make some of its own, many people, especially older adults, can become deficient

Sources: 

NUTRAingredients.com

The Journal of Nutrition