Adding calcium supplements to estrogen therapy may provide an extra degree of protection against osteoporosis for postmenopausal women, researchers say.
Writing in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, scientists at New York's Columbia University and the Helen Hayes Hospital described their review of studies concerning estrogen regimens. The review indicated that women who also took calcium supplements had higher bone mass readings than those taking estrogen alone.
Bone mass readings were highest in the forearms and upper thighs of the women taking the calcium supplements -- in dosages ranging from 563 to 1,200 milligrams daily.
Commenting on the findings, the Council for Responsible Nutrition says the study "clearly shows that hormone replacement therapy is not optimal -- calcium is necessary for maximum protection against osteoporosis."
