Too Much Calcium

Calcium is one of the important nutrients in the body. It is found in a variety of products like milk, cream, yogurt, cheese, etc. The most significant use of calcium is that it is required for the development of strong bones and teeth. When there is limited or no intake of calcium, the body absorbs calcium from bones, making them porous and weaker. If this continues for a longer period, it leads to a condition known as osteoporosis or bone fracture in human beings. Therefore, in order to avoid these conditions, many people consume calcium in higher amounts or have a regular intake of supplements. This can lead to side effects.

Side Effects of Excess Calcium in The Body
The actual dosage of calcium required by adult human beings is up to 1000 mg. If a person consumes more than 2500 mg of calcium, it leads to overdose which can have toxic effects on the body.

• Excess calcium in the blood leads to a condition known as hypercalcemia which can lead to nausea, lethargy, abdominal pain, headache, etc.
• Vitamin D is essential for proper absorption of this mineral in the body. When the calcium level rises, there is an increased demand of vitamin D in the body which may be harmful.
• Surplus calcium in urine may get deposited in the kidney and form stones. This condition is known kidney stone which is one of the most painful conditions in human beings.
• High levels of calcium during pregnancy may also increase the risk of kidney stones in women. On the other hand, it may also hinder the absorption of iron in the body.
• Even in men, high levels of calcium in blood can increase the risk of prostate cancer and also obstruct the absorption of other minerals in the body.
• Excess calcium in the body may also lower the blood pressure of the person which can even lead to unconsciousness.
• Too much calcium in the diet also gives rise to several stomach problems like flatulence or gas, abdominal cramps, constipation and bloating.
• Depression is also one of the symptoms of excess intake of calcium. Depression, fatigue and metallic taste in mouth are the significant and early warning signs of high calcium in the body.
• Apart from these, the other side effects of calcium overdose in the body include irregular heartbeat, dizziness, seizures, diarrhea, lethargy, dry mouth, sweating, painful urination and thirst.

In most of the cases, overdose occurs due to consumption of calcium supplements on a regular basis. One should note that supplements of calcium should not be consumed without the recommendation or advice of the doctor. Specifically, pregnant women and people suffering from chronic diseases should not consume supplements without doctor's advice. On the other hand, if you have a balanced and a nutritious diet regularly, there is hardly any need for supplements.

It is essential to know these side effects in order to get them treated as early as possible. It is recommended to consult the doctor immediately if side effects of any supplements are observed.