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Calcium supplementation and cardiovascular health: is there a link?
Calcium supplements, as a common dietary supplement, are widely used in daily life. Although it is primarily used to treat and prevent hypocalcemia, osteoporosis, and rickets, its effects on cardiovascular health are controversial. As people pay more attention to health, many studies have begun to explore the link between calcium supplementation and cardiovascular disease.
The importance and proper amount of calcium
Calcium is a mineral required by the human body and is essential for the normal functioning of bones, muscles and nerves. Adults need about one gram of calcium per day. Calcium supplements are used primarily when dietary calcium intake is inadequate. However, experts warn that taking too much calcium supplements may pose greater risks than benefits.
Many studies have shown that calcium supplementation is not necessary to maintain bone mineral density in healthy adults.
Calcium supplements and cardiovascular effects
Recent studies have shown that taking 1,000 to 1,500 mg of calcium supplements daily may slightly lower blood pressure in people without hypertension. This suggests that achieving adequate calcium levels may have some benefits in preventing high blood pressure. However, the findings are not necessarily applicable to all populations, particularly those who are already at risk for cardiovascular disease.
The National Cancer Institute does not recommend the use of calcium supplements to reduce cancer risk.
Side Effects of Calcium Supplements
Although calcium is essential for good health, improper use of calcium supplements can cause some side effects. For example, excessive calcium supplementation may lead to the development of kidney stones. The study also showed that calcium supplementation was not significantly associated with the incidence of heart attacks, strokes, and heart failure hospitalizations.
There is some evidence that calcium supplements may cause kidney stones, but acute calcium poisoning is relatively rare.
Calcium absorption and excretion
Calcium absorption is affected by several factors, including vitamin D levels, intestinal acidity, age, and dietary fiber intake. Normally, calcium is excreted from the body primarily through urine and feces. Certain factors, such as caffeine intake and protein consumption, will increase urinary calcium excretion.
Calcium supplements on the market
There are many types of calcium supplements available on the market, the most common forms include calcium carbonate and calcium citrate. Calcium carbonate is the most common and least expensive form of supplement, while calcium citrate is suitable for certain groups of people, such as those who lack stomach acid. The bioavailability of these two forms of calcium is similar for most people, but in special cases, calcium citrate is thought to be better absorbed.
ConclusionThe use of calcium supplements should be based on individual health conditions and doctor's advice.
There is considerable controversy over the use of calcium supplements in terms of health, and caution is still needed in promoting their role in cardiovascular health. Although studies have shown that moderate calcium intake may be beneficial for controlling blood pressure, excessive calcium may increase other health risks. Before considering calcium supplements, it is important to understand their potential side effects and associations with cardiovascular health. So, in the face of so much scientific evidence, should we rethink the role of calcium supplements in our healthy lives?
