Final answer:
Post-menopausal women not on estrogen therapy generally need higher calcium intake, around 1200 to 1500 mg daily, to mitigate the risk of osteoporosis. A calcium-rich diet, possibly with supplements and weight-bearing exercises, is recommended to maintain bone health.
Step-by-step explanation:
A 55 year old female patient who is post-menopausal and not receiving estrogen therapy is generally recommended to have an increased intake of calcium due to the risk of developing osteoporosis. After menopause, particularly without estrogen supplementation, women are prone to negative calcium-phosphorus balance, leading to bone mass reduction and potentially resulting in painful fractures. While the general adult requirement for calcium is 800 mg/day, post-menopausal women, due to their increased risk for osteoporosis, might need a higher intake. Although specific recommendations can vary based on individual health factors and should ideally be provided by a healthcare professional, some guidelines suggest an intake of around 1200 to 1500 mg of calcium daily for postmenopausal women.
Calcium can be absorbed through dietary sources like dairy products, green leafy vegetables, and fortified foods, with the absorption process being enhanced by sufficient vitamin D levels, acidic gastric pH, and certain dietary components. To achieve adequate calcium intake without the aid of estrogen, women in this age group should focus on a diet rich in calcium and might consider supplements under physician guidance. This dietary approach, combined with weight-bearing exercises, is beneficial in maintaining healthy bone density and preventing the progression of osteoporosis.