DEAR DR. GOTT: I am a 47-year-old, pre-menopausal woman who has never had children. My gynecologist recently recommended that I take calcium supplements (500-600 mg of calcium with vitamin D per day), saying that I am a good candidate for osteoporosis because I’m petite (5’ 1 ½” and 97 pounds).
Is it possible for me to get enough calcium from my diet without taking the over-the-counter kind? I enjoy all kinds of vegetables and dairy products. I run and take aerobics classes (which includes weights) about three times per week.
DEAR READER: I recommend that you have a bone density exam. This test will let your doctor know how well your bones are absorbing calcium. If you have minor deficiencies (osteopenia) but not osteoporosis, increasing your calcium intake with calcium and vitamin D supplements may stop or slow bone loss. If you have osteoporosis, you should start one of the medications available on the market as well as including extra dietary calcium and vitamin D.
Whether or not you need calcium/vitamin D supplements, they are relatively inexpensive and won’t hurt you. (Incidentally, just because you are slim is not reason enough to assume that you are a candidate for osteoporosis.) As a preventive you may wish to start taking supplements even if you have no problem.
If you decide to take calcium supplements, be sure that you take one that includes vitamin D. The vitamin D works with the calcium in your body and aids absorption. Without it the amount of calcium used by the body is minimal.
To give you related information, I am sending you a copy of my Health Report “Osteoporosis”. Other readers who would like a copy should send a self-addressed, stamped number 10 envelope and $2 to Newsletter, PO Box 167, Wickliffe, OH 44092. Be sure to mention the title.
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