Which statement about the IOM's stance on calcium and vitamin D's effect on skeletal health is correct?

Which statement about the IOM's stance on calcium and vitamin D's effect on skeletal health is correct?

• A. No effect on skeletal health
• B. There is a cause-and-effect relationship between calcium and vitamin D and skeletal health
• C. Only an association with skeletal health
• D. No conclusion on skeletal health

Answer: (B)

The key idea is that calcium and vitamin D have a direct, causal impact on skeletal health. The IOM concluded that adequate calcium intake is necessary for proper bone mineralization and that vitamin D enhances calcium absorption and bone metabolism; together, evidence from trials and population studies shows that insufficient calcium or vitamin D leads to bone diseases like rickets and osteomalacia, while adequate intake improves bone mineral density and reduces fracture risk. This goes beyond mere association, reflecting a cause-and-effect relationship supported by mechanistic rationale and consistent outcomes.

The key idea is that calcium and vitamin D have a direct, causal impact on skeletal health. The IOM concluded that adequate calcium intake is necessary for proper bone mineralization and that vitamin D enhances calcium absorption and bone metabolism; together, evidence from trials and population studies shows that insufficient calcium or vitamin D leads to bone diseases like rickets and osteomalacia, while adequate intake improves bone mineral density and reduces fracture risk. This goes beyond mere association, reflecting a cause-and-effect relationship supported by mechanistic rationale and consistent outcomes.