Health briefs: Taking it fast

People who "hook up" for casual sex can have as rewarding a long-term relationship as those who establish a meaningful connection before sex, a new study says. University of Iowa researchers analyzed relationship surveys and found that average relationship quality was higher for people who took it slowly. However, having sex early on wasn't the reason for this disparity, according to University of Iowa sociologist Anthony Paik. When he factored out people who weren't interested in getting serious, he found that those who became sexually involved as friends or acquaintances and were open to a serious relationship were just as happy as those who dated but delayed having sex.

Calcium pills questioned

Although millions take calcium supplements to boost bone health and ward off osteoporosis, New Zealand researchers say supplements have little effect on bone strength and contribute to a small increase in heart attack risk for older people.

Rather than relying on calcium supplements, the researchers suggest that people get their required calcium, if possible, from foods.

- HealthDay