Calcium Supplements Raise Risk of Heart Attack by 30 Percent

Calcium supplements, which many people consume hoping to ward off osteoporosis, may increase the risk of heart attack by as much as 30 percent, researchers reported Friday.

These tiny tablets which carry concentrated doses of calcium were also associated with higher incidences of stroke and death, but they were not statistically significant, Reuters reports.

According to the Food Standards Agency, adults need 700mg of calcium a day, which should come from dietary sources including milk, cheese and green, leafy vegetables.

The study, from experts at the University of Auckland and the University of Aberdeen, said diets high in calcium do not increase the risk of heart attacks. It is the effect of supplements, which increase the levels of calcium circulating in the blood, which causes the increased risk.

Experts believe higher blood serum levels lead to hardening of the arteries, which can cause heart attacks, according to The Press Association.