Side Effects of Calcium Supplements

Calcium is an important mineral the body needs for a number of functions. Calcium helps in the absorption of Vitamin D, reduces the chances of getting osteoporosis, helps blood clot properly and helps the heart function properly. Women especially are encouraged to make sure they get enough calcium on a daily basis. However, there are few side effects of calcium supplements if they are taken improperly.

Kidney Stones

• Taking the recommended daily allowance of 1,500 mg of calcium helps prevent kidney stones; however, exceeding this amount could cause their formation in the body which can be painful when they pass though the system.

Calcium Toxicity

• Taking more than 2,500 mg of a calcium supplement could cause the side effect of calcium toxicity, which manifests itself in the appearance of abnormal deposits of this mineral in tissue and in elevated calcium levels in the blood.

Constipation

• One of the common side effects of calcium supplements when taken in excess is constipation, which is failure to get rid of the body's waste. Constipation, in return, leads to bloating and sometimes pain.

Stomach Problems

• Consuming high levels of calcium supplements can cause stomach problems such as nausea, vomiting and cramps.

Debilitating Ailments

• These side effects of calcium supplements are rare, but prolonged overindulgence in calcium supplements can result in seizures, confusion and even comas.