Med J Aust. 2000 Nov; 173 Suppl(): S106-7.

What strategies can women use to optimise bone health at this stage of life?

Prince RL, Kerr DA.

Dairy foods provide the major, readily absorbed sources of calcium. Women aged 40 years and over should consume 3-4 serves of low-fat dairy food per day. If calcium supplements are required, the best absorption rate is from a dose of 500-600 mg of calcium once or twice daily. Exercise, alone or in combination with other therapeutic interventions, is effective in preventing bone loss. Vitamin D supplements may be necessary for women with inadequate sun exposure. Salty foods and the addition of salt to food should be avoided. While there is emerging evidence for the role of phytoestrogens in bone health, more human trials are required to strengthen this evidence.