Calcium Supplements:

Ever wonder if you are low in calcium? Do you supplement calcium? New research states that high intake of calcium supplements may increase the risk of getting a heart attack and/or a stroke in men- but not women. The National Cancer Institute studied approximately 400,000 subjects and monitored the effects of calcium on men and women ages 50 to 71. According to the study, men are at an increased risk from supplementing with high doses of calcium, and not women. Green leafy vegetables, beans, and non-fat dairy is a safer way to derive calcium. (JAMA Internal Medicine, Feb. 4, 2003).

(Montclair chiropractor, Dr. Eshanov, advises that prior to supplementing with calcium supplements, patients should go to their primary care provider for blood tests, to determine if they are low in calcium; once that is determined, patients should discuss with their doctors dietary options.)

Not All Vitamin D is Created Equal

Consumers are warned to be careful when buying supplements and vitamins. An anaylyses of vitamin D from 12 manufacturers showed that the actual stated dose varied from 52% to 135% of the actual dose. Government requirements mandate that products contain 90% to 120% of the stated dose. This was reported by Erin LeBlanc of the Oregon Health & Science University et al. (JAMA Internal Medicine, Feb. 11, 2013).

Dr. Eshanov, (chiropractor Montclair NJ) advises patients that all supplement and vitamin purchases should be made from both reputable companies as well as reputable stores.