Outofstress.com

Side Effects of Taking Calcium Supplements

Calcium is an important element for ensuring healthy, strong bones in the human body. It is also used by the body to ensure efficient functioning of the heart, muscles and nervous system. Calcium supplements can be taken during certain times when the body is either unable to absorb what it needs from a normal diet or during periods where higher calcium levels are needed, such as during pregnancy and childhood bone growth periods.

There are certain side effects associated with taking calcium supplements some of which are quite common.

Nausea: This is reported as quite a common side effect and can often be reduced or eliminated by reducing the dosage of the supplements or ensuring that they are taken with food.

Vomiting: Normally occurring as a result of severe nausea as listed above. It is counteracted in the same way as the nausea symptoms.

Stomach pain: Again, these are often connected with the nausea and vomiting and the advice for reduction of these symptoms is the same as for nausea and vomiting.

Dry mouth: This can occur due to a reduction or lack of saliva production. Persistent problems in this area do need to be addressed as they can lead to further complications.

Constipation and flatulence: This is cited as one of the most common side effects of taking calcium supplements. It can cause not only discomfort but extreme pain. It is recommended that patients suffering this side effect ensure a high fiber content in their diet by eating plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables. Reducing the supplement dosage can also be helpful.

Loss of appetite: This is normally a secondary symptom caused by one or other of the listed side effects, most commonly nausea and vomiting.

Increased bladder urge: This is normally only associated where the patient is ingesting very high dosages of calcium.

Contra-indications with other drugs: Calcium supplements don’t work well with certain other drugs. If you are already on medication it is advisable to see a doctor before starting to take calcium supplements.

Recent findings of BMJ

In July 2010 a study was published by BMJ in connection with calcium supplements. Besides claiming that they seem to be of little help in the reduced risk of bone fracture they also claim that a link has been found between the taking of calcium supplements and the occurrence of heart attacks.

Many doctors worldwide have instantly jumped to counteract these findings by saying their results are somewhat debatable. Presumably this particular subject needs to be closely monitored for any further findings or developments.

Most of the side effects of calcium supplements are minimal and of low risk but any symptom that exhibits itself after starting to take calcium supplements will need to be discussed with a doctor. Even where side effects seem initially to be of little concern their occurrence may cause more severe problems over the longer term and again should be discussed with a doctor at their onset. As it is doctors themselves who will often recommend a course of supplements many of the concerns can be discussed then.

There are many different types of calcium supplements available that have varying levels of calcium strength so do ensure that you are taking the correct product for your needs. They come in many different forms for oral application including tablets, capsules, powders and so forth. In some cases calcium can be administered as an injection by your doctor. It can sometimes be a case of a little trial and error until you find what works best for you.

About The Author: Article by Outofstress.com expert author ‘Deneice Arthurton’. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce this article.