Bone-friendly lifestyle and the role of calcium or vitamin D supplementation

Bone health can be optimized by not smoking, limiting alcohol intake to <= 2 drinks/day and maintaining a healthy body weight (i.e. body mass index of about 25 kg/m(2)). A balanced diet with a protein content of about 1 g/kg/day and a calcium content >500 mg/day (e.g. two servings of dairy products or equivalent) is recommended. In those with poor sunlight exposure, use of a vitamin D supplement of 400-1000 IU/day should be considered. Calcium supplements cause side effects and are of unproven value. Their use is discouraged.

Automated summary

Optimizing bone health involves not smoking, limiting alcohol intake, maintaining a healthy body weight, consuming adequate protein and calcium, and using vitamin D supplements for those with poor sunlight exposure. Calcium supplements are not recommended due to potential side effects and lack of proven value.