Negative Effects of Coral Calcium

Coral calcium, a dietary supplement derived from coral reefs, is made up of calcium carbonate and trace minerals. It is highly esteemed for its ability to change the alkalinity of water-based solutions. Although coral calcium is being promoted as the ultimate cure-all for a number of diseases, its health benefits are still under investigation. It is recommended that individuals needing to supplement their calcium intake look to a safer and less expensive product such as a purified calcium carbonate supplement.

Toxicity

• Laboratory tests have revealed that coral calcium contains large amounts of heavy metals such as lead. An excess of such metals circulating in the body can lead to toxicity and death.

Allergic Reactions

• Because shellfish live among coral reefs, there is a great probability of coral calcium causing allergic reactions in individuals allergic to shellfish. Such reactions include hives, swelling and shortness of breath.

Not Fully Absorbable

• Despite popular belief, studies have revealed that coral calcium is not fully absorbed when consumed, and as much as 70 to 75 percent of calcium carbonate products remain unabsorbed by the body.

Excess Amounts

• Consuming too much coral calcium can produce such negative effects as constipation, headache, loss of appetite and irritability. Continued consumption can lead to depression.

Kidney Stones

• High concentrations of calcium oxalate in the urine can result in kidney stones. Although kidney stones eventually pass from the body, they can cause extreme discomfort and, in some cases, more serious ailments.

Destructive to Nature

• Apart from its negative effects on the human body, the manufacturing of coral calcium is destructive to nature itself. Coral reefs take thousands of years to grow, and many types of fish, lobsters and other ocean creatures find a home among the reefs. Harvesting the reefs destroys the ecosystem as well as the beauty of the ocean.