[Calcium intake and bone mass].

The deficiency of calcium intake during childhood blocks the attainment of normal peak bone mass. On the other hand, oral calcium supplement is effective for suppressing bone loss in postmenopausal women. This effect is prominent especially in older women as well as women with lower calcium intake, and in cortical bone, compared with cancellous bone. Thus, the deficiency of calcium intake is considered to be one of major risk factors for osteoporosis, but no clear evidence have been available in Japan.