"Weighted mean TCI and DPI and percentage of distributions of selected characteristics were estimated by TCI category and fracture status. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to assess the effect of TCI and DPI on risk of fracture. Some 13% of participants reported a fracture history, of whom 17.8% consumed a total of >=1200mg of calcium per day and 23.8% consumed <400mg/d. TCI was not associated with fracture risk when controlling for all selected covariates.

"In women who consumed <46g/d of dietary protein, those with a TCI >=1200mg/d had a significantly higher risk of fracture than those with the lowest TCI (adjusted odds ratio 5.98, 95% confidence interval 1.15-31.13), whereas in women who consumed >70g/d of dietary protein, those with a TCI >=1200mg/d had an insignificant lower risk of fracture (adjusted odds ratio 0.69, 95% confidence interval 0.20-2.39). TCI is not associated with risk of fracture among postmenopausal women. Adequate TCI in the presence of inadequate DPI may not be protective against fractures," wrote Y. Zhong and colleagues.

The researchers concluded, "Optimal proportion of TCI and DPI warrants further investigation among older women."

Zhong and colleagues published their study in Nutrition ("Association of Total Calcium and Dietary Protein Intakes with Fracture Fisk in Postmenopausal Women: The 1999-2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES)." Nutrition, 2009;25(6):647-654).

For additional information, contact L.S. Balluz, Center Diseases Control & Prevention, National Center Chronic Diseases Prevention & Health Promotion, Atlanta, GA 30333.

From the July 20, 2009, Prepared Foods E-dition