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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
11:30
A Semi-Automated and Reproducible Biological-Based Method to Quantify Calcium Deposition In Vitro
Published on: June 2, 2022
Cardiovascular effects of calcium supplementation
I R Reid1, M J Bolland, A Avenell
1Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand, i.reid@auckland.ac.nz
Summary
Calcium supplements may increase cardiovascular risks, including heart attack and stroke. Food sources of calcium might be a safer alternative for bone health without these adverse effects.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Health
- Bone Metabolism
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Previous trials indicated potential cardiovascular risks associated with calcium supplements in specific populations.
- Epidemiological studies suggest a correlation between elevated circulating calcium levels and cardiovascular disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a meta-analysis assessing the safety of calcium supplements regarding cardiovascular events.
- To evaluate the impact of calcium supplementation on myocardial infarction and stroke risk.
Main Methods:
- Meta-analysis of randomized, placebo-controlled trials of calcium supplements.
- Pre-specified analyses were utilized to ensure robustness of findings.
- Consideration of data where cardiovascular events were not primary endpoints.
Main Results:
- A significant increase in the risk of myocardial infarction (27-31%) and stroke (12-20%) was observed with calcium supplements.
- These risks were consistent across multiple trials.
- Co-administration with vitamin D did not appear to mitigate these adverse cardiovascular effects.
Conclusions:
- Calcium supplements present a potential increase in cardiovascular risk, with limited net benefit when weighed against modest fracture risk reduction.
- Dietary calcium sources may offer bone density benefits without associated cardiovascular risks, suggesting they may be preferable.
- Alternative osteoporosis treatments may be effective without concurrent calcium supplementation.
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