Calcium supplements—previously thought to help prevent heart disease and stroke—have now been shown to almost double the risk of heart attack. Doctors are now warning that such supplements should be taken with caution, and even then only for vital medical reasons.
The new finding is based on a large-scale study of 23,980 men and women in Heidelberg, Germany. The participants were part of a cancer and nutrition study, but the results also allowed researchers to assess how calcium supplements were linked to heart disease.
The team of researchers, from Zurich University's institute of social and preventative medicine, found that people who used calcium supplements regularly were 86 percent more likely to suffer a heart attack than those who did not. Those who obtained their calcium just from supplements were 2.7 times more likely than non-users to experience a heart attack. The results are published in the journal Heart.
While calcium is required for bone growth, it is also used by other organs such as the heart. While there is clear evidence that some calcium supplements should be taken to protect bones—in certain medical situations—this new research points to the fact that such action should be taken only under close consultation with a doctor. Dr Claire Bowring, of the UK's National Osteoporosis Society, explained to the Guardian:
The message is clear that patients should consult a physician before taking calcium supplements—especially if they are at risk of a heart disease or heart attack. More here."This study further highlights the need for care when considering taking calcium supplements. If you get all of the calcium that you need from your diet then a supplement will not be necessary. Boosting calcium beyond recommended levels has no extra benefit for bones."Supplementation may be warranted if you are unable to get enough calcium in your diet, but it needs to be done with consideration."
4 comments:
Take your pick - osteoporosis or heart attack? one or the other - never both!
Everything I know is wrong. I never did fall for the eliminate butter and eat margarine advice but I did think calcium supplementation was good. Had my third MI in 2006, seem to be ok now.
I will take this to heart and be selective about calcium supplements.
Thank You.
I've been taking these for quite a while so that's a worrying read, it seems even the best miracle cures now cause horrible side effects...
The thing is, it can sometimes take years before negative effects of a drug or supplement are realized. Take Darvocet for example. It was heavily prescribed for years and promoted as one of the safest pain killers on the market. New research is showing that isn't true at all. I try to limit all medications to what is absolutely necessary to survive. If you're eating a balanced diet then you shouldn't need supplementation unless you have a medical issue that is causing a deficiency. Even then, you have to be careful. Thanks for posting!
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