Scientists urge caution when taking calcium supplements: New research reveals potential risks

According to the National Institutes of Health, about 43% of Americans take a supplement containing calcium, an important mineral for maintaining strong bones.

But if you’re considering taking a calcium supplement, researchers warn there may be risks.

You may have heard that calcium supplements are a good way to improve your health. But research shows that may not be the case.

A large study from Johns Hopkins University found that taking calcium supplements can have a negative effect on heart health.

“Just using calcium supplements was independently associated with this increased risk of developing atherosclerosis,” said Erin Michos, associate professor of medicine in the Division of Cardiology at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.

Calcium supplements also cause side effects such as bloating, constipation, and kidney stones. A study published in the journal Neurology also found that women who took calcium supplements had a higher risk of developing dementia.

And Michos says the largest research to date shows inconclusive results on the benefits of taking calcium supplements to build strong bones.

“For people who are already meeting their recommended daily allowance, there’s no evidence that more is better, even for bone health or fracture reduction,” Michos said.

But dietary sources of calcium do not pose the same risks.

“The safest thing to do is try to get their calcium through their diet. We think the body processes calcium very differently when it comes from food sources versus supplements,” a- she declared.

Foods like milk, yogurt and almonds are rich in calcium. The recommended dietary intake of calcium for most adults is 1,000 milligrams per day. For women 51 and older and men 71 and older, it’s 1,200 milligrams.

You can usually get those milligrams a day if you eat whole grains, broccoli, or cheese. If you have a calcium deficiency, ask your doctor if taking calcium supplements might benefit you.