Calcium is a mineral required by the body for the growth and maintenance of strong bones and teeth. It is important for the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. According to USAToday.com, more than 10 million Americans have osteoporosis, which is defined as low bone mass accompanied by structural deterioration of bone, leading to bone fragility and the increased risk of spine, hip, and wrist fractures. Calcium is naturally present in milk and leafy green vegetables. It can be purchased over-the-counter in supplement form and is bound with lactate, carbonate or citrate. Coral calcium is another available source of calcium. However, there may be dangers and risks associated with its use.
Trace Elements
According to William Kiene, director for Conservation Science at Reef Check and a coral reef expert with a PhD in marine science, coral has trace elements such as manganese, strontium and even uranium which are not good for you. These trace elements can be dangerous and may cause toxicity if they build up in your body over time. Regular calcium supplements do not carry this risk since they are made in a controlled laboratory environment.
Lead
According to Stephen Barrett MD, in June of 2003, ConsumerLab reported that a popular selling brand of coral calcium contained 2.5 mcg of lead per gram of calcium, which might pose a physical threat to a developing child when taken by a woman who is pregnant or breast feeding. A build-up of lead in the body can cause dangerous neurological and cardiovascular effects.
Unknown Materials
According to USAToday.com, because of the intricate structure of the coral polyp and the many spaces within the structure, there potentially can be many other materials in the coral when it's ground up, so its contents may be unknown. Taking coral calcium may predispose your body to additional risks, as there may be unknown materials in your supplement that can be dangerous.
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