February 04, 2013
Calcium supplements and your heart
A high
intake of calcium supplements is associated with increased risk of
death from cardiovascular disease in men, according to
researchers.
In a study of 388,000 over 50s, men taking
more than 1,000 milligrams of calcium per day had an increased risk
of death from cardiovascular disease,
compared to those who didn’t take any extra
calcium. This risk was not observed in women.
Our Senior Cardiac Nurse, Doireann Maddock,
said: “This study seems to show a relationship
between supplements and heart risk - but this doesn’t mean calcium
causes cardiovascular disease.
“Calcium supplements can really help sufferers
of bone conditions such as osteoporosis, so further research is
needed to clarify whether the potential risks outweigh the
substantial benefits.
“If you've been prescribed calcium, it’s
important not to stop taking your medication. Make an appointment
to talk it through with your GP if you have any
concerns.”
This research was published online by JAMA Internal
Medicine.