Whether you consume calcium through natural forms or as a nutritional supplement, the mineral is very valuable to your body in several different ways. It has critical roles in bone development, muscle and brain function, and it also influences your digestive tract. But consuming calcium in large amounts may also lead to gas production in the stomach, which can lead to belching.
Calcium Function
Calcium supplements often are taken to encourage bone density and bone strength. You may also take calcium to treat heartburn or other gastrointestinal conditions that increase the amount of acid in your stomach. A usual dose of calcium is 500 milligrams or less, but you can take it throughout the day as needed to treat stomach acid. However, taking calcium does come with potential side effects.
Heartburn Treatment Side Effects
When calcium interacts with gastric acid in the stomach, it neutralizes the acids and alleviates your heartburn. However, this chemical reaction also produces gas byproducts that build up in the stomach. Shortly after taking calcium supplements, you may experience belching that persists as long as the calcium is reacting with the stomach acid. Although this may be unpleasant, it suggests that the calcium is effectively treating your stomach acid; you should soon feel a reduction in heartburn.
Other Side Effects
According to the National Institutes of Health, the general use of calcium supplements could cause gas to develop in some people. Other side effects, such as constipation, may also develop. This can be related to the type of calcium supplement you are taking and/or the presence of fiber or fluids in your diet.
Considerations
If the gas and belching caused by calcium supplements is unpleasant or embarrassing, try a different calcium supplement and increase your consumption of fluids and dietary fiber. If the side effects persist, consult a doctor. Do not stop calcium use if it has been recommended by a doctor, and do not exceed the daily recommended limit of 2,500 milligrams daily.
Member Comments