A meta-analysis of 15 randomized trials and up to 11 921 participants shows that the use of calcium supplements without coadministered vitamin D is associated with an increased risk of myocardial infarction.
The study also warrants a reassessment of the role of calcium supplements in the management of osteoporosis.
The article has been recently published in BMJ in July edition, online.
Calcium supplements are commonly used in management of osteoporosis and have been found to reduce the risk of fracture marginally.
In the past, studies have found conflicting evidence with some suggesting high calcium intake as protective against vascular disease, and others showing that calcium supplements speeding vascular calcification and increasing mortality in patients with kidney failure and increase cardiovascular events in women.
Their current meta-analysis looked at randomized trials of calcium supplements that supplied at least 500 mg/day of elemental calcium vs placebo.
The studies indicate that or most older people, the risks of calcium supplements outweigh the benefits and changing to calcium-rich foods may be a better option.
