Are you taking calcium supplements? You must read this

 Calcium supplements are often recommended to individuals who have a deficiency of calcium, a mineral that is essential for bone health. Calcium supplements are available in various forms such as tablets, capsules, chewable tablets, and liquids. While calcium supplements are generally considered safe, recent studies have suggested that they may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

Calcium is an essential mineral that is required for various physiological processes such as muscle contraction, nerve function, and blood clotting. It is also essential for the development and maintenance of healthy bones. The recommended daily intake of calcium for adults is 1,000-1,200 milligrams. However, many individuals do not meet this requirement through their diet alone and may require calcium supplements.

Several studies have suggested that excessive calcium intake from supplements may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. A meta-analysis published in the British Medical Journal analyzed data from 11 randomized controlled trials involving 12,000 participants and found that calcium supplements were associated with a 31% increased risk of heart attacks. Another study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that calcium supplements were associated with a 22% increased risk of heart attacks.

The mechanism by which calcium supplements increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes is not fully understood. One theory is that excessive calcium intake may lead to the deposition of calcium in the arteries, which can increase the risk of plaque formation and cardiovascular disease. Another theory is that high levels of calcium in the blood may lead to an increased risk of blood clots, which can block arteries and cause heart attacks and strokes.

While the evidence linking calcium supplements to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes is not conclusive, it is still important to exercise caution when taking these supplements. It is recommended that individuals obtain their daily calcium requirement through a balanced diet that includes leafy green vegetables. If a calcium supplement is needed, it is recommended to take a low dose and to spread the dose throughout the day.

While calcium supplements are often recommended to individuals with a deficiency of calcium, recent studies have suggested that they may increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes. It is recommended that individuals obtain their daily calcium requirement through a balanced diet, specially from leafy green vegetables and exercise caution when taking calcium supplements. As always, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new supplements or making significant changes to your diet.

References

Bolland MJ, Avenell A, Baron JA, et al. Effect of calcium supplements on risk of myocardial infarction and cardiovascular events: meta-analysis. BMJ. 2010 Jul 29

Xiao Q, Murphy RA, Houston DK, Harris TB, Chow WH, Park Y. Dietary and supplemental calcium intake and cardiovascular disease mortality: The National Institutes of Health-AARP Diet and Health Study. JAMA Intern Med. 2013 Feb 11

Li K, Kaaks R, Linseisen J, Rohrmann S. Associations of dietary calcium intake and calcium supplementation with myocardial infarction and stroke risk and overall cardiovascular mortality in the Heidelberg cohort of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study (EPIC-Heidelberg). Heart. 2012 Aug

Anderson JJB, Kruszka B, Delaney JA, et al. Calcium intake from diet and supplements and the risk of coronary artery calcification and its progression among older adults: 10-year follow-up of the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA). J Am Heart Assoc. 2016 Mar 29

Reid IR, Bolland MJ, Grey A. Calcium supplements and cardiovascular risk--a meta-analysis. BMJ. 2011 Jul 29