Calcium Supplements Linked with Heart Problems

Supplements can provide health benefits by filling in the gaps when diets are missing important nutrients but eating well is still the best way to ensure older adults are getting necessary vitamins and minerals to maintain optimum health.

Calcium in particular is under closer scrutiny as research links the supplements with kidney problems, inflammation, and in a recent study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, plaque buildup in arteries which could affect the heart.

The daily recommended allowance for calcium is 1,000 to 1,300 milligrams.  Calcium, important to maintain good bone and teeth health is also required for proper muscle function, nerve transmission and hormone secretion.  By eating a diet that includes calcium rich food such as low fat dairy, salmon, almonds or dark leafy greens, adults can help protect against plaque buildup while getting proper nutrition.

Researchers at Johns Hopkins Medicine conducted a 10 year study of more than 2,700 participants, measuring calcification of the heart’s arteries using cardiac CT scans and recording what supplements and drugs each took and how much calcium they consumed; through foods like dairy, nuts or leafy greens or with the addition of supplements.   Forty six per cent of those studied used calcium supplements and researchers found that supplement users showed a 22 per cent increased likelihood of having artery calcium scores rise over the 10 years of the study.

Although the evidence is not conclusive, researchers are concerned that excess calcium in the form of supplements may damage the heart while eating a diet high in calcium-rich foods seems to offer protection against plaque buildup.   Individuals who eat a heart healthy diet that includes fish, nuts, low fat dairy and plenty of vegetables are also more likely to live a healthy lifestyle which may further explain why those who rely on supplements for calcium may be at increased risk for deposits in the arteries.

In addition to getting adequate calcium and vitamin D,  maintaining bone density in older age requires weight bearing exercise.   Weight training helps improve muscle mass, maintain good balance and increase bone density.

Talk with your doctor and a registered dietitian about your dietary habits and what supplements you should be taking; consider taking lower dose calcium citrate supplements in smaller doses spaced throughout the day if supplements are deemed necessary.  Calcium citrate is also less likely to cause constipation or bloating.

To read more about the study visit  Hopkins Medicine by following this link.