Is there a relationship between physical activity and dietary calcium intake? A survey in 10,373 young French subjects

The purpose of this study was to discuss, in the light of the results of a survey, the calcium ration of a sample of French youth and to determine whether various sports activities can be related to dietary calcium intake. Physical activity was evaluated using Baecke's questionnaire. Calcium intake was evaluated using a food frequency oriented questionnaire. The survey was performed on a population of 10,373 subjects (6,966 males and 3,407 females) including three different groups of subjects: school children and college students, military personnel, and athletes registered in sports federations. The mean age of this population was 19 +/- 9 yr, ages ranging between 7 and 50 yr. The mean amount of declared calcium intake (DCI) for the total population was 1242 +/- 843 mg per 24 hr (mg x d(-1)). Fifty percent of this population consumed less than 1000 mg x d(-1) and 13% less than 500 mg x d(-1). There was no significant relationship between the index of activity and declared calcium intake. Calcium intake decreased with age and was lower in females compared to males. The subjects trained in individual endurance sports such as triathlon, biking, and road running have a lower DCI than subjects trained in team sports such as volley ball, handball, or basketball. This survey, performed on a large population, does indicate that for half of them daily calcium intake is below the threshold of 1,000 mg x d(-1) considered the daily requirement covering the needs of a population without age or gender distinction and that calcium intake is not related to the level of physical activity.