Although dietary calcium is generally safe, excessive calcium does not provide extra bone protection. In fact, if calcium from diet and supplements exceeds the tolerable upper limit, it could cause kidney stones, prostate cancer, constipation, calcium buildup in blood vessels, and impaired absorption of iron and zinc.
Taking calcium supplements and eating calcium-fortified foods may increase calcium above normal levels. As a result, it is very important to stick to the RDA and not exceed the recommended dosage. The best way to treat calcium deficiency is to prevent its occurrence. Modification of risk factors is imperative, and pharmacists can play a large role in this area. They can recommend appropriate calcium and vitamin D supplements. Individuals, particularly women, at risk of low calcium should take foods and drinks rich in calcium and vitamin D, quit smoking, and increase weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercise.
Estimation of total usual calcium and vitamin D intakes in the United States. J Nutr ; 4 Straub DA. Calcium supplementation in clinical practice: a review of forms, doses, and indication, Nutr Clin Pract. Bunyardatavej N, Buranasinsup S. J Med Assoc Thai. Saljoughian M. The emerging role of vitamin K 2. US Pharm. Baun L, Russell TM. Overview of the management of osteoporosis in women. Vascular calcification and bone disease: the calcification paradox.
Trends Mol Med. A method for coronary artery calcium scoring using contrast-enhanced computed tomography. J Cardiovasc Comput Tomogr. Dietary supplement fact sheet: calcium. Accessed May 30, Featured Issue Featured Supplements. Types of Calcium Supplements The two main forms of calcium supplements are carbonate and citrate. Calcium is found in dairy products and in a variety of nondairy products, including dark green leafy vegetables, grains, figs, fish with soft bones, and calcium-fortified foods.
Even with healthy eating and a balanced diet, one may not get enough calcium daily. Calcium Supplementation and Cardiovascular Effects Some concerns have been raised about the potential adverse effects of high calcium intake on cardiovascular health among the elderly due to calcification of the arteries and veins. Different types of calcium supplements have different costs. Comparison shop if cost is a factor for you. Calcium supplements are available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, chews, liquids and powders.
If you have trouble swallowing pills, you may want a chewable or liquid calcium supplement. Your body must be able to absorb the calcium for it to be effective.
All varieties of calcium supplements are better absorbed when taken in small doses mg or less at mealtimes. Calcium citrate is absorbed equally well when taken with or without food and is a form recommended for individuals with low stomach acid more common in people over 50 or taking acid blockers , inflammatory bowel disease or absorption disorders. Dietary calcium is generally safe, but more isn't necessarily better, and excessive calcium doesn't provide extra bone protection.
If you take calcium supplements and eat calcium-fortified foods, you may be getting more calcium than you realize. Check food and supplement labels to monitor how much total calcium you're getting a day and whether you're achieving the RDA but not exceeding the recommended upper limit. Be sure to tell your doctor if you're taking calcium supplements. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Sign up for free, and stay up-to-date on research advancements, health tips and current health topics, like COVID, plus expert advice on managing your health.
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This content does not have an Arabic version. See more conditions. Healthy Lifestyle Nutrition and healthy eating. Products and services. Calcium and calcium supplements: Achieving the right balance Calcium is important for bone health. A healthy diet that includes calcium along with a lifetime of regular exercise builds and maintains good bone health and may reduce the risk of osteoporosis later in life.
All other formulas for Adult Use only. All rights reserved. Trade marks are owned by or licensed to the GSK group of companies. The content of this site is intended for US audiences only. OK Cancel. Find a Store. Canada EN. So, while you may think that you've met your daily requirements by taking that 1,mg calcium pill, you may actually be only halfway to your target. Calculate your cost per serving based on how many tablets or chews the package contains, and consider whether you might find it inconvenient to take several tablets a day.
Here are some final tips for choosing and taking calcium supplements as found in the Harvard Special Health Report Osteoporosis: A guide to prevention and treatment :. As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
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