Calcium plays an essential role in the formation and maintenance of the bone and teeth system, and also participates in the activities of muscles, nerves and cardiovascular system. However, many people have a mentality of "the more you supplement, the better", especially with young children and middle-aged women, leading to excess calcium.
According to nutrition experts, children are a group at risk if calcium is supplemented incorrectly. Overusing milk or functional foods containing high calcium levels for a long time can increase calcium in the blood, causing reduced absorption of important micronutrients such as iron, zinc, magnesium and phosphorus. As a result, children are at risk of malnutrition, constipation, loss of appetite, bone pain, and even kidney stones.
Notably, excess calcium can also promote the bone ossification process to take place early. When the bone tips close early, the height of children will be limited, increasing the risk of slow development or stunting.
Not only children, adults can also face many complications if calcium supplementation exceeds their needs. Excess calcium causes kidneys to be overloaded, increasing the risk of kidney stones and kidney dysfunction if prolonged.
In addition, high blood calcium levels can affect cardiovascular activity, causing heart rhythm disorders in some cases. People with excess calcium are also prone to symptoms such as nausea, fatigue, thirst, frequent urination, constipation or loss of appetite.
Supplementing too much calcium also reduces the ability to absorb iron and zinc - micronutrients that are important for blood production, immunity and metabolism. This can cause body fatigue, reduce resistance and affect long-term health.
Experts recommend that calcium should only be supplemented when needed and according to the instructions of a doctor or nutritionist. In addition to using calcium-rich foods, it is necessary to combine vitamin D, a balanced diet and reasonable exercise to help the body absorb calcium effectively, avoiding the consequences of excessive supplementation.
