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Published on: May 19, 2017
Lead content of calcium supplements
E A Ross1, N J Szabo, I R Tebbett
1End-Stage Renal Disease Program, Division of Nephrology, Hypertension, and Transplantation, University of Florida, Box 100224, Gainesville, FL 32610-0224, USA. Rossea@medicine.ufl.edu
JAMA
|September 16, 2000
Summary
Many calcium supplements, including natural and refined types, contain concerning levels of lead. This poses an avoidable public health risk, especially for individuals taking high doses for osteoporosis or kidney conditions.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Toxicology
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Over-the-counter calcium supplements, including natural and refined formulations, have been found to contain significant lead levels.
- Increased physician recommendations for calcium for osteoporosis prevention and treatment necessitate an examination of potential contaminants like lead.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the lead content in various calcium supplements.
- To quantify potential lead exposure from popular calcium brands at dosages relevant to children, osteoporosis treatment, and dialysis patients.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of lead content in 21 nonprescription calcium carbonate formulations (7 natural, 14 refined), 1 prescription calcium acetate, and 1 phosphate binder.
- Lead content was measured using electrothermal atomic absorption and expressed in micrograms of lead per day at different elemental calcium intake levels.
Main Results:
- Four of seven natural calcium products showed measurable lead, with daily exposure up to 10 microg/d for renal dosages.
- Four of fourteen refined products also contained lead, with daily exposure up to 3 microg/d for osteoporosis dosages and 20 microg/d for high renal dosages.
- No lead was detected in calcium acetate or synthetic phosphate binder products.
Conclusions:
- Many calcium supplement formulations contain lead, presenting an easily avoidable public health concern.
- Despite stringent lead exposure limits, contamination in supplements remains an issue requiring attention.
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