The Risk of Using Too Much Calcium Supplement

Your body has more calcium than any other mineral. It is necessary for bones, teeth, blood pressure and many bodily functions and may also help fight cancers. Taking too much calcium can cause problems.

Adequate Dose

• Daily dosage varies from 210 mg for babies up to six months old to 1300 mg for children from 9 to 18 years of age. Most adults need 1000 mg until age 50. People over 50 have decreased ability to absorb calcium and need 1200 mg.

Maximum Dose

• No maximum dose has been established for babies. For people from 1 year on, even for pregnant or nursing women, the most calcium recommended is 2500 mg daily.

Side Effects

• Calcium, especially in high doses, can cause gas, bloating, constipation, dizziness, nausea, heartbeat irregularities, sweating, painful urination and vomiting.

Signs of Overdose

• Overdosing can be dangerous to you and, if you are pregnant, to your baby. Early signs include severe constipation, dry mouth, headache, thirst, depression, metallic taste in mouth and fatigue. Continued it can cause high blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, eyes or skin sensitivity to light and increased urination.

High Blood Level

• Too much calcium in your blood may increase risk of fatal prostate cancer in men. A high blood level of calcium is called hypercalcemia and may damage your kidneys and decrease your ability to absorb other essential minerals.

Medical Conditions

• Calcium supplements may make some conditions worse. Discuss taking supplements with your doctor if you have diarrhea, gastrointestinal problems, heart conditions, hypercalcemia, elevated calcium in your urine (hypercalciuria), kidney disease, kidney stones or hyperparathyroidism.