Product labels should be checked for the amount of calcium the foods contain. Calcium supplements may be necessary to get adequate calcium intake. A physician or registered dietitian should be consulted about the need for calcium supplements. Several different forms of calcium supplements are available. Bone meal and dolomite are not recommended because they may contain toxic substances such as lead, mercury and arsenic.
Chelated calcium is expensive and has no advantage over other forms.
Long-term ingestion of excessive amounts of calcium can lead to unhealthy side effects, but taking 1000 mg to 2000 mg of calcium a day should not produce any serious problems. This material does not cover all information and is not intended as a subsitute for professional care. Please consult with your physician on any matters regarding your health. Copyright 1998 Jackson Gastroenterology. All Rights Reserved.