What Are The Dangers Of Calcium Supplements?

Calcium is well-known for its essential role in building strong bones. According to the National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements, the Food and Nutrition Board advises that adults aged 19 to 50 get at least 1,000 milligrams of calcium each day, and adults 50 and older get at least 1,200. To fulfill these requirements, many adults turn to calcium supplements. While dangerously high levels of calcium in the body are rarely a result of calcium supplements, the ODS notes, there are some risks associated with taking these supplements. Consult your doctor before beginning any supplement regimen.

Medication Interactions

Calcium can interact negatively with some types of medications, the ODS warns, such as certain antibiotics, the anticonvulsant phenytoin and others. If you are taking any kind of medication, check with your doctor before taking a calcium supplement.

Heart Attack

In the past, some studies suggested that a high calcium intake might protect against cardiovascular disease. However, a study published in July 2010 in the "British Medical Journal" found that calcium supplements may in fact increase your chances of suffering a heart attack.

Kidney Stones

Calcium supplements may increase your risk of kidney stones, the Mayo Clinic reports. If you have a history of kidney disease or stones, your doctor may advise you against taking calcium supplements.

Iron Deficiency

Calcium has been shown to inhibit absorption of iron. According to the National Institutes of Health, this is most likely only a problem for those people at risk of iron deficiency. If you are at risk for iron deficiency, the NIH advises taking a calcium supplement at bedtime rather than with meals, so as not to interfere with the absorption of iron in your diet.

Constipation

Research published in 2008 in the journal "U.S. Pharmacist" concluded that calcium supplements can cause constipation. To avoid problems with constipation, people taking calcium supplements should increase their fiber and fluid consumption.