The published literature does not support the value of calcium megadoses against post-menopausal osteoporosis. Magnesium supplementation may be more important. When a magnesium-emphasizing programme was given to 19 postmenopausal women on hormone replacement therapy, a significant increase in mineral bone density occurred within one year. A total dietary program emphasizing magnesium instead of calcium. Effect on the mineral density of calcaneous bone in postmenopausal women on hormone therapy.
Vitamin D appears to enhance the effectiveness of supplemental calcium.
59 healthy postmenopausal women were given calcium supplements, calcium plus zinc, manganese and copper, or placebo, and the rate of bone loss was evaluated over two years. The only significant difference occurred between the placebo and calcium plus trace mineral groups, suggesting that bone loss in calcium-supplemented postmenopausal women can be further arrested by also administering trace minerals. Adapted from the Nutritional Health Bible by Linda Lazarides. If you use this search facility regularly, you may prefer to buy this book.