Are You Getting Too Much Calcium?

For decades, we’ve been told that calcium leads to stronger bones and teeth, right? Well, that might not be the case, according to a new study published on BMJ.com, an online publication.

The team of researchers found that calcium supplements and calcium-rich foods are not as effective as we’ve come to believe and could actually cause harm to people older than 50. Instead of building stronger bones, the extra calcium accumulates in the arteries.

"Clinical trials of calcium supplements at doses of 1,000 mg/day, however, have reported adverse effects, including cardiovascular events, kidney stones, and hospital admissions for acute gastrointestinal symptoms," wrote the University of Auckland in New Zealand team behind the study.

This is surprising news considering that the current daily recommended intake for calcium is 1,200 mg for women older than 50 and for men older than 70.So, what should you do? Here’s what Angela Ginn, a registered dietician nutritionist and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in Baltimore, Maryland, had to say regarding these new findings:

“Food can function as medicine. Choose food first. Calcium is mostly found in milk, yogurt and cheese. In addition, it can be found in some dark leafy green vegetables, fish with edible bones and fortified beverages. Think of calcium is beneficial beyond bones. It also helps with muscle contraction, nerve function, regulate your heart beat, and assist with clotting of your blood. One study should not impact the greater benefit of calcium. Drink up and eat real food for the bounty of benefits.”

Also, to strengthen your bones, try yoga, dance classes, stair climbing, running around your neighborhood or the treadmill, and weight lifting, cut back on alcohol consumption, and quit smoking.