Calcium Calcium needs are usually met through regular consumption of dairy products and calcium-rich mineral waters, but calcium supplements also contain different chemical forms of this mineral such as carbonate, citrate or gluconate. They are considered to contribute to the maintenance of bone health provided they contain at least 120 mg of calcium per 100 g, 100 ml or dose. Foods and supplements that provide at least 400 mg of calcium per serving are thought to help reduce the loss of bone mineral density in postmenopausal women over the age of 50. The beneficial effect is achieved with a daily consumption of at least 1200 mg of calcium from all sources. However, a recent analysis of several studies has shown that taking calcium-rich dietary supplements after menopause may have little or even a negative effect on the prevention of osteoporosis. In addition, supplemental calcium intake may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. For this reason, it is better to increase the intake of calcium-rich foods than to take calcium supplements. Vitamin D Vitamin D, which is relatively rare in food, is mainly synthesized by the skin under the influence of ultraviolet rays from the sun. Its action promotes the absorption of calcium from the digestive tract, stimulates the building of bones and reduces their destruction, by regulating the levels of parathyroid hormone. Vitamin D supplements help intestinal absorption and utilization of calcium and phosphorus, maintain normal blood calcium levels, and support bone health, provided they contain at least 0.75 micrograms of vitamin D per 100 g, 100 ml or dose. Foods and supplements providing at least 15 micrograms of vitamin D per daily serving help reduce the risk of falls associated with postural instability and muscle weakness in men and women 60 and older. The beneficial effect is obtained by the daily consumption of 20 micrograms of vitamin D from any sources. A balanced diet and sunlight are not effective enough to obtain the necessary amount of vitamin D, especially in people over 60 years of age. For this reason, it is recommended to take vitamin D supplements – between 800 and 1000 IU per day, especially for people over 60 years of age. In patients at risk of deficiency, it is appropriate to perform a blood test to measure the level of 25-OH-vitamin D. The blood concentration of 25-OH-vitamin D should be between 30 and 45 ng/ml. If the vitamin D blood level is below 30 ng/ml, vitamin D supplementation is recommended to bring it back to normal levels. When this goal is achieved, maintenance treatment is prescribed to maintain vitamin levels within these reference values. Vitamin K A diet rich in vitamin K can increase bone density. Vitamin K supplements may contribute to normal bone function,if they contain at least 11 micrograms of vitamin K – phytomenadione and menaquinone per 100 g, 100 ml or dose. Ipriflavone Ipriflavone is a synthetic derivative of one of the soy isoflavones. Clinical studies show that in combination with calcium, it helps prevent osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. References: https://www.vidal.fr/maladies/appareil-locomoteur/osteoporose/complements-alimentaires.html