The Dangers of Taking a Calcium Supplement. A Must Read.
Calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, but taking a calcium supplement may be dangerous especially if you have a family history of cardio vascular disease.
Research suggests that calcium supplements can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and kidney stones in elderly people. For these reasons, it is important to be aware of the potential risks associated with taking calcium supplements.
Calcium is a mineral that is essential for strong bones and teeth. It helps to reduce the risk of fractures and osteoporosis, and is especially important for seniors as they age. However, research has suggested that taking a calcium supplement can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and kidney stones in elderly people.
Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death in seniors. Recent studies have linked calcium supplements to an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack and stroke. The risk is especially high in people who already have existing risk factors, such as high cholesterol or high blood pressure.
Kidney stones are another potential risk associated with taking calcium supplements. While calcium is necessary for healthy bones and teeth, too much calcium can lead to the formation of kidney stones. These stones can be painful and can cause other health problems.
There is also evidence that calcium supplements can interfere with the absorption of other minerals, such as iron and magnesium, which can lead to deficiencies. For these reasons, it is important for seniors to talk to their doctor before taking any calcium supplement.
It is also important to get enough calcium from natural sources, such as dairy products and leafy green vegetables.
Vitamin K2 is a critical nutrient for ensuring calcium is properly absorbed into your bones. It works by activating a osteocalcin which holds calcium to your bones while also helping draw calcium out of soft tissue. The problem is that modern diets are often low in K2, meaning you may not be getting enough of this important nutrient.
If you're taking calcium or vitamin D supplements, make sure you're also getting adequate K2. The easiest way to do this is with a Vitamin D + K2 spray that can be administered under the tongue. As with any supplement, you should check with your doctor first to make sure it's suitable for you.
In summary, calcium is essential for strong bones and teeth, but taking a calcium supplement can be dangerous for seniors. Research suggests that calcium supplements can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and kidney stones in elderly people. For these reasons, it is important for seniors to be aware of the potential risks associated with taking calcium supplements and to get enough calcium through diet and exercise as well as ensuring they are getting adequate amounts of vitamin K2 especially if taking a calcium supplement.
Reference
Arora, S., & Javed, F. (2019). Calcium Supplementation: Is It Safe?. Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research, 13(3), ED01-ED03.
Fenton, T. (2009). Is calcium supplementation for the prevention of osteoporosis effective?. Canadian Family Physician, 55(3), 283–284. Jackson, R. D., LaCroix, A. Z.,