The new dietary reference intakes for calcium: Implications for osteoporosis

The new Dietary Reference Intakes (DRI) for calcium were released August 13 , 1997 by the Food and Nutrition Board of the National Academy of Science. Unlike the RDA's which established the minimal amounts of nutrients needed to be protective against possible deficiency, the new values are designed t o reflect the latest understanding about nutrient requirements directed at optimizing health in individuals and groups. Adequate calcium intake recomm endations were set at levels associated with desirable retention of body ca lcium since high bone density is known to be less susceptible to fractures. Recommended intake for adults is 1000 to 1200 mg/day. The majority of peop le do not consume these levels of calcium. The upper tolerable limit for ca lcium was set at 2.5 g/day.