USA raises calcium reference intakes Available to Purchase

The USA in 1997 raised the reference dietary intakes of calcium for adults and children. These include estimated average requirements (EARs), recommended dietary allowances (RDAs), adequate intakes (AIs) and tolerable upper intake levels (ULSs). These new values were designed to optimise health and minimise risk of major chronic disease. For children they aim to maximise calcium retention, for adults 31‐50 they aim to achieve a calcium retention. The US recommendations are significantly higher than the British. Emphasises the need for high calcium intakes during phases of rapid growth; stresses how deficits in calcium accretion may never be reversed. Research supports the benefits of increased calcium intake.