Calcium Supplements: How the vital mineral has become a major health concern.

High Calcium intake linked to Heart Disease

Over the past couple of decades, calcium supplements have been overwhelmingly popular in America. Why? Because, as we all know, it builds strong bones! There is a lot of validity to the promotion of calcium supplements. Our bodies do need calcium daily for a multitude of reasons. Calcium is not only an integral component of bones and teeth, supporting their structure and helping to retain hardness, but it also is necessary for the normal functioning of our muscular, nervous, endocrine, and cardiovascular systems! However, a spate of new studies show that cardiovascular related deaths practically doubled in patients with a history of high calcium intake.

Common calcium supplements

Another widely promoted use of calcium supplements has been the prevention of osteoporosis, especially in middle-aged women.  This population was even encouraged to take Tums and Rolaids due to their high calcium content.  According to a number of studies in prominent medical journals, excess calcium intake results in two primary issues, ischemic heart disease and stroke. This is probably because along with building strong, hard bones, calcium also can accumulate in blood vessels and other tissues. These calcified tissues are strong and hard as well, but that’s not a good thing! 

Left: Strong bone structure
vs.
Right: Weakened bone structure

Ischemic heart disease is the primary cause of death in the United States and other industrialized countries. Ischemia is defined as a reduced amount of blood supply - and thus oxygen - to tissues (in this case the heart). The lack of blood supply is not only an issue for your heart but can also cause an insufficient amount of blood to the brain resulting in a stroke.

We are not saying there is no place for calcium supplements; some people are truly deficient in calcium. However, there is a delicate balance between calcium and magnesium in the heart and many other body systems that is essential to keep things running smoothly. Magnesium acts to relax the heart muscle, dilate blood vessels (lowering blood pressure in the process), and provide an overall calming effect.

 

So if you’re taking calcium supplements, feel free to ask a question in the comments, emailing me directly,  or if you live in the Los Angeles area please make an appointment to come in and discuss this, [practice contact page].  We will discuss all medications and supplements you may be taking and whether calcium supplements are right for you. It is important to find out the best choices and make sure you’re on the right track for good heart health, now and in the years to come.