According to the Institute of Medicine, calcium and vitamin D play a key role in which health outcome?

• A. Skeletal health
• B. Cancer outcomes
• C. Cardiovascular disease outcomes
• D. All of the above

Answer: (A)

Calcium and vitamin D are essential for bone health because bone relies on mineralization with calcium and on vitamin D to optimize calcium absorption and proper remodeling. The Institute of Medicine bases its recommendations on skeletal outcomes—preventing fractures and maintaining bone mass—so the guidance and nutrient targets for calcium and vitamin D are set to support bone health. While research explores possible links to cancer or cardiovascular disease, the IOM’s established health outcome with clear, supported evidence for these nutrients is skeletal health. That’s why skeletal health is the best answer.