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.
