Although there is scant research on the subject, some diarrhea-predominant IBS (IBS-D) patients have reported relief by taking a calium supplement. To me, this always seemed like a fairly safe recommendation - what could be the harm in taking a little extra calcium? A new study suggests that things might not be so clear cut.
The study sought to find out if taking calcium supplements poses any cardiovascular risk. Let me emphasize that this was not a study of IBS patients, but rather patients who took calcium supplements as a way to ward off osteoporosis. According to the study abstract, a meta-analysis was conducted, with a combined total of over 12,000 subjects who were taking at at least 500 mg/day supplementary calcium for approximately three to four years.
The results indicated that the individuals who took calcium as opposed to placebo were at greater risk for suffering from a heart attack. The risk was not super-high, but it was statistically significant. The study did not reveal any statistically significant risk of stroke or sudden death.
What does this mean for you if you are taking calcium for diarrhea? Talk to your doctor! They are in the best position to evaluate your risk for heart problems so that you can make an informed decision for yourself.
Related Reading:
Source:
Bolland, M., et.al. "Effect of calcium supplements on risk of myocardial infarction and cardiovascular events: meta-analysis" BMJ 2010 341:c3691.
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