Many people take to self-medication with vitamins and mineral supplements. But these may not be good for you in some cases. For instance, calcium if taken in addition to what your body needs, can cause many health problems. Dr Rakesh Gupta, senior consultant for internal medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, says calcium supplements are primarily intended for individuals who cannot meet their calcium requirements through dietary sources alone. They are particularly recommended for:
- Postmenopausal women at risk of osteoporosis
- Individuals with low calcium intake, like lactose intolerant or vegan people
- People with certain medical conditions that affect calcium absorption, like Crohn’s disease or celiac disease
- Those taking medications that interfere with calcium metabolism, such as long-term corticosteroids
- Young adults who haven’t achieved peak bone mass
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women with increased calcium needs
While senior citizens often take calcium supplements, it is important to note that the benefits and risks can vary depending on the individual.
The decision to supplement should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, who can assess factors such as diet, lifestyle, and existing health conditions.
Calcium supplementation is not a one-size-fits-all solution and should be tailored to individual needs, considering age, gender, and overall health status.
Who should avoid such supplements?
- Certain individuals should avoid calcium supplements:
- People with a history of kidney stones, as excess calcium can increase the risk of stone formation
- Those with hypercalcemia or conditions that predispose them to hypercalcemia, such as hyperparathyroidism or certain cancers
- Individuals with a high risk of cardiovascular disease, as some studies suggest a potential link between calcium supplements and increased heart attack risk
- Those taking certain medications, including calcium channel blockers, antibiotics, and thyroid hormones, as calcium can hamper their absorption
- People with absorptive hypercalciuria, a condition where the body absorbs too much calcium
- Individuals with adequate calcium intake from dietary sources
- Those with a history of prostate cancer, as some research suggests a potential link between high calcium intake and increased risk of aggressive prostate cancer
It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions or taking other medications to determine if calcium supplementation is necessary and safe.
What are the ill-effects of hypercalcemia?Hypercalcemia, or elevated blood calcium levels, can have various ill effects on the body:
- Excess calcium can lead to kidney stones and, in severe cases, kidney failure
- It may cause irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) and contribute to calcification of blood vessels, potentially increasing the risk of heart disease
- Nausea, vomiting, constipation, and abdominal pain are common
- Confusion, lethargy, fatigue, and in severe cases, coma
- Paradoxically, hypercalcemia can weaken bones and cause muscle weakness
- Depression, anxiety, and cognitive impairment may occur
- It can interfere with the function of the parathyroid glands and affect hormone balance
- Excessive calcium can lead to increased urination and dehydration
- Pancreatitis and peptic ulcers may develop in some cases
- In severe cases, it may cause menstrual irregularities in women and low testosterone in men
The severity of these effects depends on the degree and duration of hypercalcemia.
Chronic hypercalcemia can lead to more serious long-term health
consequences, emphasising the importance of proper calcium balance and medical supervision when using supplements.Which are the other supplements— minerals, vitamins—that should be taken only under medical guidance and can have harmful effects?
Several supplements should be taken only under medical guidance due to potential harmful effects:
- Iron: Excessive iron can lead to organ damage and increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes
- Vitamin A: High doses can cause liver damage, birth defects, and increased fracture risk
- Vitamin D: Over-consumption can result in hypercalcemia and associated complications
- Selenium: Excess intake may increase the risk of diabetes and certain cancers
- Zinc: High doses can interfere with copper absorption and impair immune function
- Vitamin B6: Excessive amounts can cause nerve damage and skin lesions
- Niacin: High doses can cause liver damage and increase the risk of diabetes
- Vitamin E: Large amounts may increase the risk of bleeding, especially in those on blood thinners
- Potassium: Excess can lead to heart arrhythmias, kidney problems
- Magnesium: High doses can cause diarrhoea, nausea, muscle weakness
- Iodine: Excessive intake can disrupt thyroid function
- Folic acid: High doses may mask vitamin B12 deficiency and potentially increase cancer risk in some individuals
These supplements can interact with medications, exacerbate certain health conditions, or cause toxicity when taken in excess.
It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen, especially for those with pre-existing health conditions
or taking medications. The provider can assess individual needs, potential risks, and appropriate dosages based on age, health status, and other factors.