Researchers studied 67 people with rheumatoid arthritis who also had weak bones. They gave them a special type of calcium supplement (called amorphous calcium carbonate) along with vitamin D for one year. The results showed that this supplement helped increase bone density in the hip area and reduced markers that indicate bone breakdown. This is exciting because people with rheumatoid arthritis are at higher risk for weak bones and fractures. The findings suggest this supplement might be a helpful addition to treatment, especially for certain types of arthritis patients.
The Quick Take
- What they studied: Whether a special form of calcium supplement could help strengthen bones and reduce bone loss in people with rheumatoid arthritis
- Who participated: 67 adults with rheumatoid arthritis who had weak or weakening bones (osteopenia or osteoporosis)
- Key finding: After taking the calcium supplement for one year, patients’ hip bone density increased by about 3%, and markers showing bone breakdown decreased significantly
- What it means for you: If you have rheumatoid arthritis and weak bones, this supplement may help slow bone loss and strengthen your bones, but talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement
The Research Details
This was a prospective cohort study, which means researchers followed the same group of people over time to see what happened. Sixty-seven people with rheumatoid arthritis and weak bones were given a calcium supplement (800 mg per day) plus vitamin D (400 IU per day) for 12 months. Before starting and throughout the year, doctors measured their bone density using a special X-ray machine called a DEXA scan. They also took blood tests every three months to check for markers that show how quickly bones are breaking down. The researchers also looked at how active each person’s arthritis was and calculated their risk of breaking bones in the next 10 years.
This research approach is important because it follows real patients over a full year, allowing researchers to see actual changes in bone health. By measuring both bone density and blood markers of bone breakdown, the study captures the complete picture of what’s happening in the bones. This type of study is stronger than just looking at one point in time.
This study has some strengths: it measured bone health in multiple ways, tracked patients for a full year, and used standard medical tools to assess results. However, the sample size is relatively small (67 people), and there was no control group that didn’t receive the supplement for comparison. The study was published in a peer-reviewed medical journal, which means other experts reviewed it before publication.
What the Results Show
The main finding was that hip bone density increased significantly after 12 months of taking the supplement. Specifically, bone density in both hip bones increased from 0.61 to 0.63 g/cm², which may sound small but is meaningful for bone health. This improvement was seen in both the left and right hip. Additionally, blood markers that indicate bone is breaking down decreased substantially—one marker dropped from 53.42 to 41.24 ng/mL, and another dropped from 0.29 to 0.25 ng/mL. These decreases suggest that the supplement helped slow the rate at which bones were breaking down. The improvements were especially noticeable in patients who had a specific type of antibody related to their arthritis (anti-citrullinated peptide antibody-positive patients).
The researchers also found that people taking higher doses of steroid medications (5 mg or more per day) had a higher risk of fractures. Additionally, how active someone’s arthritis was correlated with their hip bone density—people whose arthritis was more active tended to have weaker hip bones. These findings help identify which patients might benefit most from this supplement.
Previous research suggested that this special form of calcium might help bones, but this is one of the first studies to test it specifically in people with rheumatoid arthritis. The results align with what scientists expected based on earlier laboratory studies, showing that the supplement works similarly in real patients as it did in test tubes.
The study had several limitations to consider. First, there was no comparison group—all patients received the supplement, so we can’t be completely sure the supplement caused the improvements rather than other factors. Second, the group was relatively small (67 people), which means results might not apply to all arthritis patients. Third, the study only lasted one year, so we don’t know if benefits continue longer. Finally, the study didn’t measure whether the supplement actually prevented fractures, only that it improved bone density.
The Bottom Line
Based on this research, the supplement appears promising for people with rheumatoid arthritis and weak bones (moderate confidence level). However, this should not replace standard arthritis treatment. If you have rheumatoid arthritis and weak bones, discuss with your rheumatologist whether adding this calcium supplement makes sense for you. The dose used in the study was 800 mg of calcium plus 400 IU of vitamin D daily.
This research is most relevant for people with rheumatoid arthritis who also have weak or weakening bones. It may be especially helpful for those whose arthritis is difficult to control or who take higher doses of steroid medications. People without arthritis or those with strong bones may not benefit as much. Anyone considering this supplement should consult their doctor first, especially if they have kidney problems or take certain medications.
Based on this study, you would need to take the supplement for at least 12 months to see meaningful improvements in bone density. Some changes in bone breakdown markers appeared within 3 months, but the most significant improvements took the full year. Don’t expect overnight results—bone health changes slowly.
Want to Apply This Research?
- Track daily calcium and vitamin D supplement intake (yes/no), plus any bone-related symptoms like joint pain or concerns about falls. Set a reminder to take the supplement at the same time each day.
- Set up a daily alarm to take your calcium and vitamin D supplement at the same time each day (consistency matters for bone health). Also track any activities that strengthen bones, like weight-bearing exercise or walking.
- Log supplement adherence daily, schedule reminders for bone density scans every 12 months, and track any falls or injuries. Note changes in arthritis activity level, as this affects bone health. Share this data with your doctor at regular check-ups.
This research is preliminary and should not replace medical advice from your healthcare provider. The study involved a small group of patients and did not include a control group, which limits how broadly the findings apply. Before starting any new supplement, especially if you have rheumatoid arthritis, kidney disease, or take other medications, consult with your doctor or rheumatologist. This supplement is not a substitute for standard arthritis medications or treatments. Individual results may vary based on disease severity, medication use, and other health factors.
This research translation is published by Gram Research, the science division of Gram, an AI-powered nutrition tracking app.