A new study has found that taking calcium supplements may increase the risk of heart attack.

The study, published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that those who took calcium supplements may be at a higher risk of developing heart disease than those who didn’t. The researchers say that more research is needed to understand the link between calcium supplements and heart disease, but this should serve as a warning to those taking these supplements.

What are calcium supplements?

Calcium supplements are taken to add extra calcium to the body. Calcium is an essential mineral needed for healthy bones and teeth. It is also important for nerve function and muscle function.

Calcium supplements can come in various forms, including pills, capsules, and liquids. They can contain different types of calcium, such as calcium carbonate and calcium citrate.

Why do people take calcium supplements?

Calcium supplements are often taken by older people, especially women who are at a higher risk of osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a condition where the bones become weak and fragile, increasing the risk of fractures and breaks.

Calcium supplements can help to strengthen the bones and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Calcium supplements may also be taken by those who don’t get enough calcium in their diet.

Some people may have a condition that affects their ability to absorb calcium from their diet, or they may have a restrictive diet that doesn’t contain enough calcium.

The study

The study looked at 2,700 people over 10 years. It found that those who took calcium supplements were 22% more likely to have a heart attack than those who didn’t take supplements.

The researchers say that this is a significant increase and warrants further investigation.

However, the study did not establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship between calcium supplements and heart disease.

The researchers say that it is possible that people who take calcium supplements may also have other risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

Cautions for those taking calcium supplements

Although more research is needed, the study should serve as a warning to those taking calcium supplements. The researchers say that those who take calcium supplements should not stop taking them without first consulting their doctor.

There are some groups of people who should be cautious about taking calcium supplements. These include people with a history of kidney stones, as calcium supplements can increase the risk of developing kidney stones.

People who are on certain medications, such as antibiotics or osteoporosis drugs, should also be cautious about taking calcium supplements, as they can interact with these medications.

How to get enough calcium in your diet

Although calcium supplements can help to boost your calcium levels, it’s always better to get your nutrients from your diet. There are plenty of foods that are high in calcium, including:.

Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt
Dark leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and collard greens
Fish such as salmon and sardines
Fortified foods such as orange juice and cereal

If you are struggling to get enough calcium in your diet, you can speak to your doctor about whether a calcium supplement is right for you.

Conclusion

The new study suggests that taking calcium supplements may increase the risk of heart attack. Although more research is needed to understand this link, it serves as a warning to those taking these supplements.

People who take calcium supplements should not stop taking them without first consulting their doctor.

It’s always better to get your nutrients from your diet, rather than relying on supplements.

There are plenty of foods that are high in calcium, so make sure you are eating a balanced diet that contains plenty of dairy products, dark leafy greens, fish, and fortified foods.