Recent research published in the British Medical Journal (15th January 2008) suggests that calcium supplementation increases the risk of adverse cardiovascular events such as stroke, heart attack and angina. 1471 postmenopausal women took part in the trial, of which 739 took a placebo whilst the remainder took a calcium supplement. The results clearly demonstrated that heart attacks, stroke and sudden death were more common among those taking the calcium supplements.
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"This is a very interesting study" says Urbod Nutritionist Amanda Michie. "Calcium plays an essential role in many reactions in the body. It is necessary for nerve transmission, contraction of muscles, blood clotting, bone health and helps iron to be used properly. It is also vital for normal heart function. However, calcium does not work alone. It works synergistically with the mineral magnesium in regulating nerve transmissions vital for a heart beat. It is important to understand that in nature, vitamins and minerals are not found in isolated forms; rather they form part of a complex group of enzymes, co-enzymes, antioxidants and trace elements many of which are yet to be discovered. They all help each other to perform its job and to protect the other from oxidation and other harmful reactions. Supplementation should be used with care especially when used in high-dose isolated forms."
