Supplement Overview

• Inadequate calcium intake during adolescence and early adulthood may lead to sub-optimal bone status.
• Calcium requirements elevated by growth in childhood and adolescence, pregnancy, and breastfeeding.
• Increased calcium intake may be needed to ensure calcium balance in female athletes with impaired menstrual status (1500 mg/d).
• At risk athletes:
  • Athletes with an inadequate energy intake, or inadequate intake of dairy and fortified soy products.
  • Female athletes with impaired menstrual function (i.e. failure to start menses, secondary amenorrhoea, menopause)

Supplement Profile

• 600 mg/d
• Only used under medical supervision as part of an integrated program for bone health.

Situations for Use in Sport

• Individuals at risk of consuming an inadequate calcium intake or whom have elevated calcium requirements as determined by an AIS sports physician.

Concerns Associated with Supplement Use

• Calcium supplementation does not guarantee bone status in absence of an adequate oestrogen/progesterone status. Athletes with impaired menstrual status should receive appropriate attention to hormonal status.
• Athletes with disordered eating or eating disorders require significant treatment in addition to calcium supplementation.
  

Last Updated 3/1/07

This fact sheet has been prepared by the AIS Department of Sports Nutrition as part of the AIS Sports Supplement Program. The AIS Sports Supplement Program has been designed for the specific needs of AIS athletes. It is recommended that other athletes and groups seek independent advice before using any supplement. © Australian Sports Commission 2007