Calcium supplements are available in several forms. One of the most popular varieties is known as calcium citrate, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center or UMMC. Calcium citrate is readily absorbed and easily digested making it especially beneficial for people with reduced levels of stomach acid, notes the Office of Dietary Supplements. Calcium citrate has a number of potential uses.
Cancer Prevention
Calcium supplements may have protective effects against cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. A study published in November, 2007 in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found postmenopausal women who took 300 to 600 mg of calcium in combination with 1,000 IU of vitamin D daily for 4 years had a 60 percent reduction in all types of cancer. The randomized trial involving 1,200 women was headed by J.M. Lappe of the Osteoporosis Research Center at Creighton University in Nebraska.
Maintain Cholesterol Levels
Taking approximately 1,000 mg of calcium supplements daily in conjunction with a healthy diet and regular exercise may slightly lower cholesterol levels, according to the UMMC. Calcium citrate and other calcium supplements may be most effective at helping maintain healthy cholesterol levels rather than reducing high cholesterol.
Prevent Hypertension
A calcium deficiency may increase the risk of high blood pressure or hypertension. Taking calcium supplements for six to eight weeks may modestly improve high blood pressure, notes the UMMC. Calcium may also guard against pregnancy-related hypertension and a condition known as preeclampsia that occurs in the latter stages of pregnancy. Preeclampsia causes high blood pressure and excess protein in the urine.
Treat Hypoparathyroidism
People with a medical condition called hypoparathyroidism may benefit from a high calcium diet as well as calcium supplements, according to the UMMC. Hypoparathyroidism is a disorder in which the body emits low levels of parathyroid hormone that's necessary for the delicate balance of calcium and phosphorus levels. Hypoparathyroidism causes unusally low levels of calcium and abnormally high amounts of phosphorus.
Prevent Osteoporosis
Taking a combination of calcium and vitamin D may help prevent bone loss and protect against osteoporosis in older men and menopausal women, reports the UMMC. Osteoporosis causes bones to become fragile and brittle. The amount of calcium needed will vary depending on whether you are getting enough from the foods you eat. If your diet provides a sufficient amount of calcium taking supplements offers no additional benefits, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation.
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