What is the daily recommended calcium intake for individuals over 65 years old?

The daily recommended calcium intake for individuals over 65 years old is 1200 mg. This recommendation is primarily to support bone health and help prevent osteoporosis, which is a common concern in older adults due to a decrease in bone density as they age.

Calcium plays a vital role in maintaining bone strength and density, and with aging, the body may absorb calcium less efficiently, making higher intake important. The suggestion of 1200 mg is based on various health guidelines that recognize the increased dietary needs of older adults to sustain bone health, particularly for women post-menopause who are at a higher risk for bone loss.

While the other amounts listed may be sufficient for younger adults or those with normal bone density, the increase in recommendation acknowledges the physiological changes that come with aging and the necessity to mitigate bone loss in this population.