A form of calcium derived from coral matrix, coral calcium has enthusiastically been promoted as a superior form of calcium that can address a number of conditions ranging from osteoporosis to fatigue. Many of its purported benefits do not have any strong scientific backing behind them, however. Any side effects you might suffer from taking coral calcium are essentially the same as those linked to any other form of calcium. The lack of evidence showing this form works better than other forms of calcium, coupled with the destruction of marine habitats that can result from harvesting the coral, suggest you might consider using another form of calcium.
Daily Calcium Intake
Taking large amounts of calcium on a consistent basis can increase the risk of associated adverse effects. Your total daily calcium intake, from both food and nutritional supplements, should not exceed 2,500 mg a day. Staying under this limit will help minimize any negative actions associated with coral calcium or any other calcium supplement. Factoring in the typical intake from diet, the University of Michigan Health System reports many doctors recommend taking supplemental calcium at a dose of 1,200 mg daily. Ultimately, your doctor can determine a safe dose.
Side Effects
Like any supplement, coral calcium might cause some side effects. Adverse effects linked to calcium supplements include bloating, gas and constipation. Frequently consuming large amounts of calcium could also lead to calcium deposits in the body that trigger pain and other potentially serious effects.
Caution in Certain Individuals
In certain individuals, using coral calcium supplements might pose unique dangers. If you have a history of kidney stones, taking large amounts of calcium in supplement form might increase the risk of future episodes. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center reports research which suggests supplementing with calcium might increase the risk of prostate cancer and cardiovascular problems in post-menopausal women. It notes in this latter instance, however, that calcium supplements have also produced benefits for this group of women, and that whether or not this risk outweighs the benefits has not been established.
Certain health conditions and the use of certain medications can elevate calcium levels in the body and using supplemental calcium increases the risk of dangerous levels building up. Definitely do not use calcium supplements without talking to your doctor first if you suffer from hyperparathyroidism, cancer, sarcoidosis or kidney failure. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes the following medications can raise calcium levels in the body: digoxin, thiazide diuretics and estrogen medications.
Interfering With the Effectiveness of Medications
Coral calcium supplements might inhibit the absorption of certain medications, which could reduce their effectiveness. They include the osteoporosis drug alendronate, blood pressure medications and antibiotics. Depending on the medication used, you might simply need to space your consumption of the supplement and the drug a few hours apart. Consult with your doctor for guidance.
Calcium-Specific Concerns
Natural forms of calcium, like that which comes from coral, carry a risk of contamination with substances they might absorb from their surroundings. The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center reports analyses that found many coral calcium supplements contained large amounts of lead. The University of Michigan Health System notes you can contact the manufacturer of coral calcium supplements to request the results of third-party testing showing lead levels.
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