You might think that taking supplements is always a good idea—after all, they’re supposed to boost your health, right? But here’s a shocker: one common supplement that many people take daily could actually be harming your heart instead of helping it. And the worst part? You might not even realize it.
Calcium supplements, often taken to support bone health, have been linked to an increased risk of heart disease. While calcium is essential for strong bones and overall bodily function, getting too much of it in supplement form can be problematic. When you take high doses of calcium supplements, your body may struggle to process it all efficiently. Instead of being absorbed into your bones, excess calcium can wind up in your arteries, leading to dangerous plaque buildup. This hardening of the arteries, known as atherosclerosis, significantly raises the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Many people assume that if a little calcium is good, more must be better. That’s why millions of adults, particularly older individuals concerned about osteoporosis, pop calcium pills every day without a second thought. But studies have shown that excess calcium from supplements—not from food sources—can lead to calcification of the arteries. Essentially, the very supplement meant to strengthen your body might actually be clogging your arteries and putting unnecessary strain on your heart.
This doesn’t mean you should abandon calcium altogether. Your body absolutely needs it, but the best way to get it is through your diet. Dairy products, leafy greens, almonds, and fish like salmon and sardines are all excellent sources of calcium. When calcium comes from food, your body processes it more naturally, reducing the risk of it ending up where it doesn’t belong.
So, what should you do if you’ve been relying on calcium supplements? First, don’t panic. But do take a moment to assess how much calcium you’re getting from food before adding a supplement into the mix. If you’re unsure whether you actually need extra calcium, consider talking to your doctor. They can check your levels and help you determine whether a supplement is truly necessary or if dietary adjustments would be a safer choice.
Another key step? Pair calcium with other essential nutrients like vitamin D and magnesium, which help your body absorb and use calcium properly. Without these helpers, calcium is more likely to end up in your bloodstream instead of in your bones.
The takeaway here is simple: supplements aren’t always harmless, and more isn’t always better. If you’re taking calcium supplements without medical guidance, it might be time to rethink that habit. Keeping your heart healthy is just as important as protecting your bones, and the right balance of nutrients—mainly from food—can help you achieve both. Your body will thank you for making the smarter choice!
