2024-05-03 08:25:31
In a study which published in BMC Public HealthTrusted Source, more than 36 thousand cases were examined. dietary calcium intake of American adults.
The study sample included 17,456 men and 18,708 women, and 4,040 of them had cardiovascular disease. People under the age of 20, pregnant women and anyone taking calcium supplements were excluded from the list of participants.
Ultimately, the researchers found that spreading calcium intake over two meals was the best way to reduce cardiovascular disease risk. However, 5 percent replacing calcium at dinner with calcium at breakfast reduced the risk of heart disease by 6 percent.
The conclusion is that food rich in calcium should be included in the morning routine and avoided in the evening.
However, the study’s authors are cautious in handing out advice.
“At present, the evidence for the relationship between dietary calcium intake and cardiovascular disease risk is insufficient and conflicting,” they wrote in their report, noting that this was the first study of its kind to examine the relationship between breakfast and/or dinner calcium intake and cardiovascular disease. and vascular disease associations.
“Studies have shown that either too much or too little calcium intake has a negative effect on the development of cardiovascular disease,” the authors emphasized in the article.
Dietary supplements can do a disservice
Calcium’s functions in the body are mostly related to the formation and condition of bones and teeth, but calcium also regulates muscle contraction, helps blood clot, and helps maintain normal heart muscle function.
Cardiovascular diseases are known to be the most common cause of death in the world.
And why is it better to get calcium in the morning? Circadian rhythm and the way nutrients are absorbed in the body are thought to be affected.
“Calcium absorption may be slightly higher during the day because certain hormones needed for calcium metabolism, such as parathyroid hormone, are higher during the day,” explained Melanie Murphy Richter, a registered dietitian who was not involved in the study.
The nutritionist added that excessive use of calcium supplements can do a disservice.
“Most of the problems with calcium intake and cardiovascular health are related to dietary supplements. Taking too much calcium can lead to hypercalcemia,” she said.
“Hypercalcemia can cause heart arrhythmia, palpitations, fainting, and sometimes more serious health problems. In addition, high levels of calcium can contribute to the formation of calcium deposits in our arteries, which can disrupt blood flow and thus increase the risk of stroke, hypertension or heart attack,” explained M. Richter.
Why take calcium supplements?
Registered dietitian Kristin Kirkpatrick said the decision to take a supplement — and which one — depends on an individual’s specific needs.
“I encourage all my patients to first discuss the pros and cons of calcium with their doctor,” said the specialist.
Pregnant women and the elderly can be deficient in calcium, and a lack of this substance increases the risk of osteoporosis.
“Anyone who eats a lot of processed foods, low in leafy greens, nuts and seeds is at risk of calcium deficiency. They may benefit from calcium supplements.
Anyone who is lactose intolerant and must avoid dairy products (they are high in calcium) may be at risk of calcium deficiency.
However, if you maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and occasionally drink milk or eat milk products, you probably don’t need supplements,” explained M. Richter.
Page page “Medical News Today” inf.
2024-05-03 08:25:31