Calcium is a nutrient needed for normal growth and bone development in children 1. It is the most abundant mineral element in the body, with more than 99% of the body’s calcium contained within bone and teeth. Calcium is obtained through dietary sources, and its intake must be secured throughout life 2.
Adequate calcium intake during childhood and adolescence is needed for development of the bones that we depend on for the rest of our life 3. Two studies 2,4 revealed that a high peak bone mass can be associated with a lower risk of osteoporosis and thus, maximizing bone mass during growth could be suggested as one of the best preventive strategies. This is also supported by an authorised health claim for calcium in the European Union 5 as follows:
- “Calcium helps to reduce the loss of bone mineral in post-menopausal women. Low bone mineral density is a risk factor for osteoporotic bone fractures.”
Derived from milk, Capolac® provides a combination of calcium and phosphorus for child nutrition.
Scientists agree that sufficient intake of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus is required for optimal development of peak bone mass3,6.
On this basis, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has authorised several health claims for calcium and phosphorus related to normal growth and development of bones in children7 as follows:
- “Calcium is needed for normal growth and development of bone in children”
- “Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal bones”
- “Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal teeth”
- “Phosphorus contributes to the maintenance of normal bones”
- “Phosphorus contributes to the maintenance of normal teeth”
References:
1. Commission Regulation (EU) 983/2009 of 21 October 2009
2. Wallace, T.C., et al., 61(21): p. 3661-3707 (2021)
3. Weaver, C.M., et al., 27(4): p. 1281-1386 (2016)
4. Laine, C.M. and T. Laine, 9(2): p. 141 (2010)
5. Commission Regulation (EU) No 1228/2014 of 17 November 2014
6. Bonjour, J.P., et al., (358): p. 1208–12. (2001)
7. Commission Regulation (EU) 432/2012 of 16/05/2012
