11.01.09
Indication: Risk of falls in seniors
Source: BMJ, October 2, 2009;339;b3692.
Research: A daily, high-dose vitamin D supplement may reduce the risk of falls in seniors, according to researchers who reviewed findings of 8 fall prevention studies involving participants aged 65 and older.
Results: Analysis revealed that taking between 700 and 1000 IU of supplemental vitamin D per day (vitamin D2 or D3) reduces falls by 19% and by up to 26% with vitamin D3. The beneficial effect was significant within 2 to 5 months of starting treatment, extended beyond 12 months, and was independent of age, type of dwelling, or additional calcium supplementation. Higher doses may be even more effective and should be explored in future studies, researchers concluded.