Heart Health

Calcium and heart disease: What is the connection?

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There's no good evidence that taking calcium supplements can harm your heart. Still, it's best to get this mineral from foods, not pills.

For decades, doctors have encouraged people to consume plenty of calcium, a mineral best known for building strong bones. About 43% of people in the United States, including close to 70% of older women, take supplements that contain calcium. Concern about osteoporosis—the bone-weakening disease that leaves older adults prone to fracturing a hip, wrist, or other bone—has driven this trend.

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