Can Too Much Calcium Cause Heart Attacks In Women Over 50?
Calcium — to supplement or not to supplement?
At our age and beyond, falling would not be traumatic if we did not also break bones. To have strong bones you need calcium. Which is why some of us pop calcium pills.
But now we hear too much calcium can increase the risk of a heart attack.
What do we do?
When something blocks the arteries from delivering blood, you have a heart attack or a stroke. That something is often fatty deposits made of fat and cholesterol, and sometimes, calcium.
In an article on clevelandclinic.org, cardiologist Leslie Cho MD, talks about the link between calcium and heart disease. “Calcium builds up in the arteries as you age,” says Dr. Cho.
According to the article, one study found that people who had high calcium intake from their meals had less calcium in their arteries. That’s right, calcium for your body is great when it comes from meals.
Supplements on the other hand, may increase calcium deposits in the arteries.
Dr. Cho adds, “It’s better to get your calcium from food or drink than to take it by pill. Your body is designed to absorb vitamins and minerals from your diet.”
Women over 50 should aim for 1,200 mg. (A glass of milk has 300 mg.)
So, load up on milk, yogurt, and cheese. Sprinkle poppy or sesame seeds on your food. Eat leafy greens like kale and spinach, and fortified foods such as orange juice, soymilk, and cereals. And beans.
“There is a real risk of osteoporosis as you get older, especially for women,” Dr. Cho says. She adds that if you aren’t getting enough from your diet, supplements can still be a good option.
As always, talk to your doctor.
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