Calcium and heart disease are precautions necessary

New research proposing a link between high intakes of calcium in women and cardiovascular mortality does not establish that calcium supplementation as a preventative measure for osteoporosis should be ceased. Published in the February 12 online edition of the BMJ, the Swedish research suggested that women with calcium intakes (corresponding to diet and supplements) greater than 1400 mg per day were more than twice as likely to die compared to women with calcium intakes between 600 mg and 999 mg per day[1]. “As this is not a cause and effect study, it should not be interpreted as one,” noted Blackmores Institute Research Director Chris Oliver.  “It is important data for considering high dose routine calcium supplementation and one that may instigate further research.” While high intakes of calcium were associated with a higher risk of death from all causes but cardiovascular disease in particular, this study was not set up to address the question it answered, according to the Taylor Wallace, senior director, scientific and regulatory affairs at the Council for Responsible Nutrition.