Various clinical studies indicate that Calcium supplementation (e.g. Calcium carbonate – 1500 mg per day) can
reduce blood pressure to a significant degree in sodium-sensitive hypertensive patients. Most of these trials were
8-12 weeks in duration and used 1000-1500 mg of Calcium carbonate or citrate.8,9,10 This subject is currently under
intensive study to clarify the potential of Calcium supplementation as a natural intervention for specific cases of
hypertension.
Calcium supplementation (1000-2000 mg per day, Calcium carbonate) may also help to prevent pregnancy-induced
hypertension or function to reverse existing hypertension during pregnancy. This function is also presently under
review.11,12
Dosage Ranges
Most young adults and adult North Americans lack 500-800 mg per day of Calcium to match the NIH recommended
intake levels. Calcium supplementation represents a viable way to meet the recommendation in many cases.4,5
Osteoporosis Prevention and Management: meet the NIH recommended intake levels for Calcium, based upon age
and gender.4
Hypertension: sodium-sensitive hypertensive patients may try 800-1,500 mg of Calcium supplementation (8-12 week
trial period) to test response.9,10,11
Side Effects and Toxicity
It is generally acknowledged that Calcium intake up to a total of 2000 mg per day appears to be safe in most
individuals. The ef iciency of Calcium absorption decreases as intake increases, thereby providing a protective
mechanism to lessen the chances of Calcium intoxication. This adaptive mechanism can, however be overcome by a
Calcium intake of greater than 4000 mg per day.4 High intake of Calcium may increase soft-tissue calcification (4000+
mg or in combination with hyperparathyroidism). In 1981, the FDA cautioned the public to limit its intake of Calcium
supplements derived from dolomite or bone meal because of the potentially high lead levels in these Calcium
supplements.1
Drug-Nutrient and Other Interactions
Dietary factors such as alcohol, caf eine, sodium and a high protein diet can increase Calcium loss from the body.
However, studies show that these factors can be compensated for by ingestion of 250-500 mg of additional Calcium in
most instances.4,5,13,14
www.meschinohealth.com
10
Meschino Health Comprehensive Guide to Minerals
Drug-Nutrient Interactions
The following drugs have been shown to deplete Calcium or reduce its absorption into the body:
EDTA14
1. Tetracycline15
2. Aminoglycosides16
3. Amphotericin B17