Osteoporosis--Part II: Dietary and/or supplemental calcium and vitamin D.

Osteoporosis is a significant problem in women and men. As osteoporosis has garnered more attention there seems to be more attention than ever placed on the potential benefits of calcium and vitamin D. Health professionals need to inform patients that there are numerous healthy dietary sources of calcium and vitamin D. Several forms of calcium supplements are commercially available today and health professionals need to understand the similarities and differences between them. Calcium and vitamin D in moderation also have an excellent safety profile and may actually have benefits far beyond osteoporosis therapy.