There are a number of possible side effects for women who take birth control pills, which is why many doctors recommend regular exercise and a healthy, nutritious diet. Taking vitamin supplements is an easy way to get one’s daily dose of nutrients like calcium and vitamin D, which new research said may be important for young women on the Pill.

A study appearing in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism announced that females between the ages of 14 and 18 may have slightly lower bone mass densities than their peers if they take birth control pills.

The bone mineral loss was relatively minor, researchers said. All participants who took birth control pills experienced a bone growth rate less than 2 percent slower than those not taking oral contraceptives. Also, this disparity only appeared after at least two years of regular use of the Pill.

Still, the authors said that this information may help young women choose a method of contraception that is healthiest for them

The U.S. Surgeon General and the National Osteoporosis Foundation both recommend that women eat foods or take dietary supplements containing vitamin D and calcium, as well as get regular aerobic exercise.