Things To Think About With Calcium Supplementation

By Katherine Crawford M.S.

Consistent research has shown that eating calcium blocks that absorption of fat. And the amount of fat blocked is substantial.

But the question remains, can supplementing with calcium really make that big of a difference?

Well, I wish I could say it would. But the bottom line is that taking in a bunch of calcium is most likely NOT going to have a significant impact on your body fat levels. And it's probably not a good idea to block fat absorption.

You see, certain fats are critical so that your body has the building blocks to produce key hormones.

And you also have to pay attention to the following dangers of high calcium intakes:

1. Competition with iron. All the cells in your body need oxygen to produce energy. Iron is used by hemoglobin to transport oxygen. And if you take in too much calcium you can decrease the absorption of iron. Not good.

2. More calcium loss. How so??? Well, if you take antacids they have certain minerals which can actually cause a net calcium loss. So the next time you pop some of those tablets thinking they'll help out with calcium levels, think again.

3. Kidney stones. Although this usually doesn't affect healthy individuals, if you have any history of kidney disease then you have to see a doctor before supplementing with calcium. Stones are very painful?

4. D overdose. Some scientists refer to vitamin D as a hormone because it plays such important roles in the body. And getting enough vitamin D is very important for optimal functioning. However, too much of any good thing will eventually become bad for you. Many calcium supplements are also loaded with vitamin D. So be cognizant of how much vitamin D you are getting or you could overdose and suffer from toxicity.

A little extra calcium is not going to hurt you. But you do have to be careful with large amounts of supplementation or you run the risk of damaging your health. And remember that when supplementing with any type of nutrient, there are always risks to consider. - 30241

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