Calcium: Low Calcium or Too Much Calcium Can Be Dangerous

Over the past 3 years, several studies have surfaced regarding the safety of calcium supplements. The new research has shown evidence for an increased risk of all-cause mortality and cardiovascular disease related mortality in women who consume over 1400 mg of calcium per day and in men who take calcium pill supplements. Therefore, based on recent research, the ideal amount of calcium intake for most adults is about 1000-1200 mg per day from food sources but more specific recommendations are listed below for various age, gender, and pregancy.

Vitamin D significantly enhances calcium absorption. It is important to note that calcium may interfere with thyroid replacement medication. Also, excess calcium consumption is dangerous which can cause high calcium levels, milk-akali syndrome, widespread calcium deposits and kidney failure. This may occur in individuals unaware of the calcium content in antacids such as Tums which contain calcium carbonate. A breakdown of foods containing high calcium content are listed below or may be found in more detail at the link supplied below.