Calcium supplements are normally needed only when you do not get enough calcium through your diet. Due to low calcium in the blood flow, a person may suffer from diseases like rickets[in children] and in adults it can lead to dental changes, cataracts, changes in the brain, and osteoporosis.
The two salts of calcium supplements that are available at pharmacies are calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and calcium citrate [Ca3(C6H5O7)2]. Calcium carbonate is cheaper than calcium citrate and is, therefore, the first prescribed preference. Other supplements also include calcium gluconate and calcium lactate. Some of these supplements are available in combination with vitamins and minerals.
However, before taking one, it is essential to know the side effects of calcium, when to take it, who should take it, and who should not.
Who Should Take the Calcium Supplements?
Generally, both males and females require a calcium dosage per day of around 1,000 mg. Females should increase their calcium dosage intake up to 1,200 mg (51 years). Males should also increase their calcium intake to 1,200 mg (71 years).
Who Should Not Take the Calcium Supplements?
Calcium supplements do not suit everyone’s health. People who suffer from a health condition that causes excess calcium to flow independently in the stream of their blood called hypercalcemia should avoid taking calcium supplements. If you have excessive or too little calcium, then it could create problems.
If you have extra calcium in your blood, which is usually due to leaching of calcium from the bones that weaken the structure of your bones which eventually may cause the bones to crack. It can also create kidney stones because of residual calcium left in your kidney after sieving urine and other liquids. Calcium can also interfere with the working of your heart and brain. Hypercalcemia is usually a result of overactive parathyroid glands.
Notably, low calcium or hypocalcemia can cause changes in the teeth, cataracts, brain alterations, and osteoporosis or brittle bones. Low calcium levels may cause no immediate symptoms but without any treatment, it could be fatal.
When to Take Calcium Supplements?
If you want maximum absorption of calcium in your body, then you should consume 500-plus mg at one time as the body is not able to absorb more at a time. Take one calcium supplement in the morning and another one at night with meals. If your supplement also contains vitamin D, the absorption will be more efficient.
Calcium Dosage Recommended by Experts
As per the opinion of experts, you need around 700 mg daily as a child and 1200 mg as an adult.
Potential Side effects of Calcium Supplements
Before adding them to your diet, take care of the following side effects of too much calcium supplements:
- Gas or bloating
- Constipation
- Risk of getting stones in the kidney
Calcium supplements can also reduce the absorption of medications meant to treat conditions like thyroid. Consult your doctor before you start taking them. Besides, avoid taking calcium with thiazide diuretics.
Conclusion
Knowing the side effects of calcium supplements and other details will help you make an informed decision. We hope this guide was helpful!
