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Calcium Intake for Bone and Heart Health

If your mom made you drink a glass of milk daily as a child, you probably know that calcium helps support healthy bones, joints, and muscles. As we age, calcium becomes increasingly important to prevent conditions such as osteoporosis. However, recent studies show concern that taking too much calcium daily can negatively affect our heart health. 

Can Calcium Hurt My Heart Health?

While calcium proves a positive when it comes to bone strength, researchers say that too much of the supplement may increase the risk of heart problems. Coronary artery disease, for instance, strikes when substance buildup blocks the arteries which deliver blood to your heart.

 Typically, a blockage is caused by fatty deposits called plaque that sticks onto your arteries; they’ve traditionally been recognized as a mix of fat and cholesterol. Now, however, doctors are stating that calcium can also get trapped in these deposits. Studies show that calcium builds in your arteries as you age, and tests can be conducted to test how much calcium is caught in your arteries — known as a calcium score screening.

Calcium and Heart Attacks

There is no definite results that show that too much calcium can result in a patient having a heart attack. One study has found that those who take in their calcium through their food rather than from a pill have less calcification in their coronary arteries, and therefore have less of a chance of developing a heart condition.

How Do I Know How Much Calcium My Body Needs?

Bone density loss is a concern for those who are aging, specifically women. It’s important to talk to your orthopedist to determine exactly how much calcium you need to support healthy joints and bones — especially if you have a history of heart concerns. 

If you are increasing your calcium intake to support healthy bones, consult with our specialists at Orthopaedic Speciality Group for more information.