Calcium
At birth, the body contains about 26 to 30 grams of calcium. Bone undergoes continuous remodelling, with constant resorption and deposition of calcium into new bone. Calcium inadequacy is more likely in some groups, including postmenopausal women and people who avoid dairy products.
Where to get it
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Active compounds & mechanisms
Key compounds:
An inverse relationship exists between calcium intake and absorption. Age can also affect the absorption of dietary calcium.
Research & evidence
Strong support Some support Weak or no supportColours show how well the sources back each point. The reason is next to each one.
NIH says calcium deficiency can lead to osteoporosis, which causes weak, fragile bones and increases the risk of falls and fractures.
Strong evidenceStrong support. Stated plainly by NIH or an FDA label
Study details
NIH ODS: "Calcium deficiency can lead to osteoporosis, which causes weak, fragile bones and increases the risk of falls and fractures."
Source: NIH ODS, Calcium — Health Professional Fact Sheet, Calcium Deficiency View source
NIH says that, on average, women lose approximately 1% of their bone mineral density per year after menopause, and that over time these changes lead to decreased bone mass and fragile bones.
Strong evidenceStrong support. Stated plainly by NIH or an FDA label
Study details
NIH ODS: "On average, women lose approximately 1% of their bone mineral density (BMD) per year after menopause." "Over time, these changes lead to decreased bone mass and fragile bones."
Source: NIH ODS, Calcium — Health Professional Fact Sheet, Groups at Risk of Calcium Inadequacy View source
Dosage
| Form | Amount |
|---|---|
| Any form | No standard dose is listed by our sources. |
Side effects
Well documented Reported (case reports, anecdotal or one study) None reportedThe circle shows how well documented an effect is, not how serious it is. A rarely reported effect can still be serious, so always read ‘When to stop’.
| Effect | Frequency | When to stop |
|---|---|---|
| Kidney stones (with higher intakes of supplemental calcium)ReportedCase reports only | Not stated | Stop and talk to a doctor if you notice any unexpected or concerning symptoms. |
| Possible increased risk of cardiovascular disease (with calcium supplements)ReportedCase reports only | Not stated | Stop and talk to a doctor if you notice any unexpected or concerning symptoms. |
| Possible increased risk of prostate cancer (with higher calcium intakes)ReportedCase reports only | Not stated | Stop and talk to a doctor if you notice any unexpected or concerning symptoms. |
Safety & interactions
Safety
Higher intakes of supplemental calcium might increase the risk of kidney stones. According to some research, calcium supplements have the potential to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Higher calcium intakes might also increase the risk of prostate cancer. Calcium supplements may interact with medications, and some medications may affect calcium levels.
Contraindications
NIH says higher intakes of supplemental calcium might increase the risk of kidney stones. If you take any medication, see Drug interactions.
Drug interactions
NIH names dolutegravir among the medications that may interact with calcium supplements. NIH describes it as an HIV integrase inhibitor used in adults and children.
NIH names levothyroxine among the medications that may interact with calcium supplements.
NIH names lithium among the medications that may interact with calcium supplements.
NIH names quinolone antibiotics among the medications that may interact with calcium supplements. NIH says that taking the antibiotic 2 hours before or 2 hours after calcium supplements prevents the interaction.
Established: stated plainly by an authoritative source. Documented: supported by case reports or trial data. Theoretical: based on mechanism, animal data, or a cautious listing. Always check with your pharmacist or prescriber.
Related
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