Calcium has long been touted as necessary for building healthy, strong bones and teeth. It is present in a variety of foods, including dairy products and vegetables. Certain foods might be fortified with calcium, such as breads and orange juice. Calcium is also available in supplements in the form of pills and powders, as well as antacid tablets. While an essential nutrient, excessive calcium intake can cause side effects. Before taking large doses of calcium, consult with a licensed health-care practitioner.
Hypercalcemia
Hypercalcemia refers to abnormally high levels of calcium in the bloodstream. This usually results from hyperparathyroidism, cancer or excessive Vitamin D intake, according to the National Institutes of Health. It can also occur from excessive calcium consumption from supplements and diet, although this is rare. Hypercalcemia can hinder kidney function and block absorption of vital nutrients, such as iron, zinc and other minerals. The Food and Nutrition Board has established a tolerable daily uptake limit for calcium of 2,500 milligrams for most people above 1 year of age. Talk with a nutritionist or doctor to determine the daily calcium intake that is right for you.
Constipation
The University of Washington states that some patients suffer from constipation as a result of excessive calcium intake. One study showed that supplementation of 1,200 milligrams daily, in addition to 900 milligrams from dietary sources, produced constipation in 13 percent of subjects. To avoid this, the university recommends increasing water and fruit juice consumption when ingesting large amounts of calcium. It also recommends getting calcium from natural food sources rather than manufactured pills. Taking calcium along with magnesium may also reduce the incidence of constipation. If your constipation becomes painful or prolonged, talk to your doctor.
Drug Interactions
An article in Harvard University's April 2003 "Harvard Health Letter" reports that taking too much calcium can negatively affect the absorption of some drugs. The article advises not to ingest large quantities of the mineral within two to four hours of taking a tetracycline- or quinolone-based antibiotic. Drugs taken to treat osteoporosis, such as alendronate or risedronate, require a waiting period of at least 30 minutes before a large calcium intake. Calcium-channel or beta blockers are another class of medicine affected by calcium intake, both dietary and supplemental. Consult your doctor before taking calcium supplements to ensure they do not interfere with current medications.
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