Healthy adults should consume at least 1000 mg of calcium each day in order to keep their bones, muscles and blood vessels healthy, the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) reports. Food sources of calcium include dairy products, broccoli, almonds and fortified food products. If you do not receive enough calcium from your normal dietary intake, your physician may recommend treatment with a calcium supplement such as calcium citrate malate. Before beginning treatment with this supplement, discuss the side effects of calcium citrate malate with a medical professional.
Bowel Movement Changes
You may experience bowel movement changes as a side effect of taking calcium citrate malate, RxList warns. Infrequent bowel movement, also called constipation, may cause you to excrete small, solid stools. Alternatively, you may experience frequent bowel movement urges accompanied by loose, runny stools. These bowel movement changes may contribute to abdominal pain, bloating or cramping. Talk with your doctor if bowel movement changes become severe or persistent.
Stomach Irritation
Calcium supplements, such as calcium citrate malate, may irritate your stomach, the Office of Dietary Supplements reports. Stomach irritation may lead to nausea or vomiting and can be associated with a decrease in your appetite. Seek care from a medical professional if vomiting or nausea persists.
Hypercalcemia
Improper or excessive use of calcium citrate malate may increase the amount of calcium your blood. If this occurs, you may experience a serious side effect called hypercalcemia. Hypercalcemia, or elevated calcium levels, may cause symptoms of confusion, heart rate irregularities, increased urination or kidney damage, the UMMC warns. Contact your medical provider if you develop symptoms of hypercalcemia while receiving treatment with this calcium supplement.
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