Your body requires calcium to function properly. One type of calcium supplement, called coral calcium, is made up of calcium salts derived from coral reefs, a saltwater ecosystem. Some developers and manufacturers of coral calcium claim it can treat or prevent cancer, Alzheimer's disease and diabetes. However, their claims have not been validated by the Food and Drug Administration or supported by clinical studies, warns Dr. Stephen Barrett, vice president of the Institute for Science in Medicine. Coral calcium supplements often contain a number of minerals -- some of which may benefit the body, and some that can prove harmful.
Calcium
The most abundant mineral in coral calcium is calcium, a mineral essential for the function of several organ systems. The Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University explains that calcium contributes to bone and tooth tissue, aids in muscle contraction and cellular signaling, and also promotes nerve impulse transmission. Deficiencies in calcium intake can lead to negative health effects, including kidney failure and osteoporosis. All calcium supplements -- including coral calcium -- provide a rich source of the mineral to help support your health.
Mercury
Although coral calcium supplements boast beneficial calcium content, they often also contain harmful minerals such as mercury, according to the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, ACES. Mercury acts as a potent toxin within your body and can cause damage to your brain, kidney and lungs, as well as your digestive tract. Individuals suffering from mercury poisoning may develop tremors, breathing problems, digestive upset and abdominal pain, according to the New York University Langone Medical Center.
Lead
ACES also indicates that coral calcium supplements may contain lead, another harmful mineral. If you consume coral calcium supplements containing lead for long periods of time, lead accumulation within your body may eventually lead to lead poisoning. Lead poisoning causes a number of symptoms, including kidney problems, changes in brain functioning and hearing loss, as well as developmental disorders if taken by children.
Avoiding the Dangers of Coral Calcium
Despite it's beneficial calcium content, the other minerals that potentially make up a part of coral calcium supplements may cause negative side effects. You can avoid these effects by choosing other types of calcium supplements derived from synthetic sources instead of from coral reefs. In addition, you may avoid the need for calcium supplements altogether by consuming calcium-rich foods, such as beans, spinach and dairy products. If you decide to take a calcium supplement, talk to your doctor about which products to choose, as well as a dosage suitable for your needs.
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