Calcium tablets for men
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Calcium Tablets for Men: Benefits and Considerations
Calcium Supplementation and Bone Mineral Density (BMD) in Men
Calcium supplementation has been shown to positively affect bone mineral density (BMD) in men, particularly at higher doses. A randomized controlled trial involving 323 healthy men aged 40 and above demonstrated that a daily intake of 1200 mg of calcium increased BMD by 1% to 1.5% more than a placebo over a two-year period. However, a lower dose of 600 mg per day did not show any significant difference from the placebo group. This suggests that a higher dosage of calcium is necessary to achieve noticeable improvements in BMD in men.
Impact on Serum Lipids, Blood Pressure, and Body Composition
The effects of calcium supplementation on serum lipids, blood pressure, and body composition have also been studied. A trial with 323 healthy older men found no significant changes in the ratio of HDL to LDL cholesterol, weight, fat mass, lean mass, triglycerides, or total cholesterol levels with calcium supplementation. However, there were slight downward trends in systolic and diastolic blood pressures, particularly in those with lower baseline calcium intakes, indicating potential benefits for blood pressure control in specific subgroups.
Biochemical Markers and Hormonal Effects
Calcium supplementation has been observed to influence various biochemical markers and hormones. In a study where men received 1 g of elemental calcium twice daily for 16 weeks, there was a significant increase in plasma renin activity and a decrease in plasma parathyroid hormone and 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 levels. Additionally, a 1-g oral calcium load was found to suppress biochemical markers of bone resorption for at least six hours, indicating its potential utility in preventing bone loss.
Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation
Combining calcium with vitamin D has been shown to be particularly effective. A study involving calcium and cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) supplementation in normal men indicated that this combination is safe and increases net gastrointestinal calcium absorption. Furthermore, calcium and vitamin D3-fortified milk was effective in reducing bone loss at clinically relevant skeletal sites in older men. This combination is especially recommended for elderly or institutionalized individuals, patients with osteoporosis, and those on glucocorticoid therapy.
Safety and Side Effects
While calcium supplementation is generally well-tolerated, there are some considerations regarding safety. High doses of calcium without coadministered vitamin D may be associated with cardiovascular risks. Additionally, common side effects such as increased urinary calcium excretion and slight increases in serum phosphate levels have been reported.
Conclusion
Calcium supplementation, particularly at higher doses, can significantly improve bone mineral density in men and may offer additional benefits for blood pressure control in those with low dietary calcium intake. Combining calcium with vitamin D enhances its efficacy and safety, making it a recommended approach for preventing bone loss and managing osteoporosis in men. However, it is important to consider potential cardiovascular risks and monitor for side effects.
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