Calcium Needs in Chinese-American Adolescents
Author Information
Author(s): Wu Lu, Martin Berdine R, Braun Michelle M, Wastney Meryl E, McCabe George P, McCabe Linda D, DiMeglio Linda D, Peacock Linda A, Weaver Munro, Connie M
Primary Institution: Purdue University and Indiana University School of Medicine
Hypothesis
What are the calcium requirements for Chinese-American adolescents compared to North American adolescents?
Conclusion
Calcium requirements for Chinese-American adolescents should be lower than those set for North American adolescents.
Supporting Evidence
- Boys had significantly higher bone turnover rates than girls at the same calcium intake.
- Calcium retention increased with calcium intake, with boys needing 1100 mg/day and girls 970 mg/day for maximal retention.
- Girls had lower habitual mean calcium intakes of 648 mg/day compared to boys' 666 mg/day.
Takeaway
Chinese-American boys and girls need less calcium than previously thought to keep their bones healthy.
Methodology
The study used a randomized-order crossover design to assess calcium retention in adolescents with varying calcium intakes.
Limitations
The sample size was relatively small, which may limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
15 boys and 14 girls aged 11 to 15 years of Chinese ancestry.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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