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Calcium, Vitamin D and Low Fat Diet are they Beneficial?

Ask Our Doc Q & A at Women's Healthcare Topics

Latest Studies Question the Value of Health Recommendations For Women

In a recent revelation by government research agencies, the value of certain health recommendations have come into question. These studies focused on the benefits of using calcium supplements and vitamin D as preventive measures to protect against brittle or broken bones, and the use of low-fat diets to reduce a woman’s risk of heart disease, breast and other forms of cancer. Recent reports from government studies suggest that calcium and vitamin D supplements may not prevent osteoporosis or related conditions. The same studies suggest that low fat diets may not reduce a woman’s risk of certain cancers or heart disease. These recent revelations come as part of a 2002 research project by the government that also revealed that some menopausal hormone treatments are more harmful than beneficial for women.

Conflicting Reports Confuse Women

In light of these contradictory study results, women are questioning the best course of action when it comes to their health and well-being. These recent revelations have created new cause for concern and have encouraged researchers to question previous recommendations related to women’s health.

Researchers are now finding the health benefits of certain routines formerly recommended to women questionable at best. What are women to do? Even researchers admit the results of these latest studies are disconcerting. They go against every firm belief that has been established regarding women’s health and nutrition.

Some experts believe that the studies confirm a need for women to look at alternate methods for reducing their risk of heart disease, cancer or osteoporosis. Certainly one must admit the recent data should be examined more thoroughly. The results however are not black and white, but rather gray. They suggest that even more evaluation is necessary to determine appropriate protocols for women’s health.

The latest rounds of studies related to women’s health included thousands and thousands of women at an expense of hundreds and millions or dollars.

Guidelines for the Future

Does this mean you can toss your low fat diet out the window and forget about taking calcium and vitamin D supplements to support your health and well being? Not necessarily. There is ample evidence suggesting a low-fat diet can benefit women in other ways. If nothing else it will help improve your energy and overall health and well being.

Women who consume adequate levels of calcium and vitamin D are taking charge of their health and probably benefit more so than women who are not getting adequate nutrients from their diet. It is important to note that historically there have been studies that consistently support and refute various claims time and time again. You can find an equal number of studies for example that suggest that soy is good for you as you can suggesting soy is bad.

There is still evidence suggesting that for certain women, adoption of a low fat diet or use of certain supplements, including calcium and vitamin D, may be beneficial. The key here is discussing your personal health history with your doctor. The best conclusions researchers can come to is that health is a highly individualized matter. What works for one person may not work for another.

A low fat diet is certainly a healthier choice than one high in fat or low in nutrients. There is still ample evidence promoting the benefits of calcium and vitamin D supplementation, particularly among women at risk for deficiencies. Chances are in the near future more studies will come to light revealing even more information about what women should and should not do to maintain optimal health. In the meantime your best bet is take all information with a grain of salt and enjoy most foods in moderation. If you are going to supplement, there is no harm in taking added calcium and vitamin D, which are essential nutrients your body needs to create strong bones.

If you have questions regarding specific health needs or risks, be sure to consult with your health care provider who can help you develop an individualized program for your health and well being.