Symptoms Of Too Much Calcium In The Diet

Your body stores calcium obtained through dietary sources in your teeth, bones and muscles, according to the MedlinePlus health guide published by the National Institutes of Health. Although this mineral works beneficially to keep your body strong, be wary of getting too much of a good thing. Teenagers ages 18 and under should get 1,300 mg of calcium daily; adults ages 19 through 50 should get 1,000 mg; and those over 50 should get 1,200 mg, according to the U.S. Office of Dietary Supplements. Getting more than that can cause problematic health symptoms.

Diegestive Tract Discomfort

Excess calcium intake can cause discomfort in your digestive tract, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center. Common symptoms of such discomfort include an upset stomach and constipation.

Nausea

If you're getting too much calcium, your body may try to expel some of that calcium. Related symptoms may include nausea and vomiting, according to the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University.

Poor Mineral Absorption

The body's digestive tract functions in such a manner that the consumption of some minerals or vitamins affect how the body absorbs other vitamins or minerals. If you are getting too much calcium, your body may not absorb adequate levels of other essential minerals such as zinc and iron, according to the U.S. Office of Dietary Supplements. This can lead to deficiencies of these minerals.

Elevated Kidney Stone Risks

The University of Maryland Medical Center warns that your risk of kidney stones may be raised if you're getting excess calcium, although the medical community is conflicted on exactly how this works. Because other factors may play a role, the center recommends talking to your doctor if you have a family history of kidney stones.

Frequent Urination

Your body may try to flush the excess calcium intake by increasing the urge to urinate, warns the Linus Pauling Institute. This can also lead to related symptoms, such as dehydration, if you're not increasing your water intake as your body increases urination.