MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Science and Technology – Food and Nutrition Research Institute (DOST-FNRI) said that 97.2 percent of adults in the country suffer from calcium deficiency.
According to its 2021 Expanded National Nutrition Survey, 95.5 percent of elderly Filipinos also have calcium deficiency.
Having a low calcium intake may increase the risks of developing osteoporosis, the DOST-FNRI said.
“Thus, the DOST-FNRI encourages everyone to eat calcium-rich food such as small fish, shellfish, cereals, green leafy vegetables, and dairy products. It is also necessary to have sufficient vitamin D for efficient absorption of calcium by simply getting enough sunlight that activates vitamin D in the body,” it said in a statement posted on its official Facebook account Thursday.
The institute also recommended that the government boost its food fortification program not only with milk products but also with other food products that are rich in calcium and vitamin D.
Local government units alike should have programs on bone health, as well as initiate diagnostic programs in their health centers to detect osteoporosis early, the DOST-FNRI likewise added.
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