06/09/2026
If your primary care doctor has been directing you to take calcium or vitamin D supplements to strengthen your bones and prevent fractures, consider checking in with them. Based on new research, there may be better strategies — for many individuals — such as weight-bearing exercise.
A recent article in the renowned medical journal BMJ looked at whether calcium, vitamin D, or both actually prevent fractures and falls in adults. The study found that routine supplements for generally healthy community‑dwelling adults provide little or no benefit for most people, except in those who are clearly deficient or at very high risk.
For Imperial Valley residents, this means pills are not a shortcut to strong bones. What helps most is a combination of weight‑bearing exercise (like walking, dancing, or light strength training), not smoking, limiting alcohol, and getting enough calcium and vitamin D through food and safe sun exposure. Taking supplements may still be important for older adults with osteoporosis or people with certain medical conditions. Patients whose calcium or vitamin D levels are low on blood tests may also benefit from vitamin doses as directed by your provider.
Before starting or stopping supplements, ask your primary care provider to consider reviewing your fracture risk. Your provider will know if lab tests may also help you make the right decisions about managing your health.
If you need a primary care provider, please consider having the talented team at the ECRMC El Centro Clinic or Calexico Health Center care for you. You can make a new patient appointment by calling 760-482-5000.
