Millions take calcium and vitamin D to protect their bones. The biggest review yet suggests the daily pills may not prevent the falls they fear most

It has been routine for many older individuals to take calcium or vitamin D supplements on a daily basis in order to help maintain healthy bones. However, according to a new study, such supplements do not have any clinically significant effects in preventing the feared outcomes – falls and bone fractures.

A total of 69 randomised controlled trials that involved 153,902 adults were reviewed.