A new study of more than 36,000 American adults suggests that excessive dietary calcium intake during evening meals could increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Circadian rhythms play a key role in regulating calcium absorption, with daylight hours being the optimal time for this process. However, too much calcium, especially from supplements, can contribute to cardiovascular issues. Researchers suggest that reducing calcium intake during dinner and increasing it during breakfast may be associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
Published in BMC Public Health, the study analyzed the dietary calcium intake of participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys between 2003 and 2018. The subjects, consisting of males, females, and cardiovascular disease patients, were categorized based on calcium intake from morning and evening meals. Ultimately, spreading calcium intake evenly over both meals was found to be the best approach for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Substituting a portion of evening calcium intake with breakfast intake resulted in a 6% overall reduction in risk. However, the study authors acknowledge that other factors could influence the results, and further research on different populations is necessary.
The relationship between dietary calcium intake and cardiovascular disease risk remains controversial, with studies suggesting that both too much and too little calcium intake can have negative effects. While calcium is known for its role in bone and teeth health, it also plays a role in muscle function, blood clotting, and heart muscle processes. Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death worldwide, affecting millions of people each year. The interaction between calcium and cardiovascular disease may be influenced by circadian rhythms, which can impact nutrient absorption and metabolism in the body.
Some researchers suggest that the internal circadian clock system can interact with nutrients to influence bodily functions, including calcium absorption and metabolism. The timing of calcium intake may play a role in its absorption, with some evidence suggesting that absorption is higher during daylight hours due to hormonal fluctuations. However, excessive use of calcium supplements can lead to hypercalcemia, a condition that can have serious implications for heart health, including arrhythmias, heart palpitations, and artery calcification. Increasing vascular inflammation and oxidative stress through excessive calcium supplementation may also contribute to cardiovascular diseases.
Registered dietitians emphasize the importance of individualized approaches to calcium supplementation, taking into account specific health concerns, risks, and dietary patterns. While certain populations, such as peri-menopausal women and individuals with low calcium intake, may benefit from supplements, a balanced diet rich in calcium-rich foods like leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and dairy alternatives can often provide sufficient calcium. The choice of calcium supplement and timing of intake can also impact absorption, with some experts recommending dividing calcium doses into smaller portions taken with meals to optimize absorption. Combining calcium supplements with other nutrients like magnesium, vitamin D, and zinc may also enhance bone support by increasing calcium absorption. Ultimately, consulting with healthcare providers and considering individual needs is crucial when it comes to calcium supplementation.
