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Calcium Supplements Raise Heart Disease Risk, Dietary Calcium Safer
13 Nov
Summary
- Calcium supplements linked to 20-30% higher risk of heart attack
- Dietary calcium from foods like milk, broccoli protects heart health
- Calcium supplements rapidly increase blood calcium levels, causing issues
According to a recent report, calcium is an essential mineral with numerous health benefits, but the way it is consumed can make a significant difference. While dietary calcium from foods like milk, cheese, broccoli, and nuts is associated with lower cardiovascular disease risk, calcium supplements may actually increase the chances of heart attacks and other heart problems.
The article cites a study published in the journal Nutrients, which found that calcium supplements were linked to a 20-30% higher risk of cardiovascular disease and coronary heart disease. In contrast, getting calcium from a balanced diet of 700-1000 mg per day does not appear to carry the same risks.
Experts explain that the rapid increase in blood calcium levels caused by supplements, unlike the slower absorption from food, can lead to vascular calcification, blood clotting issues, and impaired blood flow - all of which heighten the chances of heart attacks and strokes. Therefore, the potential bone health benefits of calcium supplements may be outweighed by the cardiovascular damage.
The article emphasizes that while calcium is crucial, it is best obtained from natural food sources rather than supplements, especially for those with existing heart disease risk factors. Maintaining a healthy, calcium-rich diet is the recommended approach for supporting overall wellbeing.
