Consuming Calcium And Vitamin D Supplements Together May Increase Risk Of Stroke, Study Says

Both calcium and vitamin D are essential for our body. Both of these components are required to keep bones healthy and strong. In case of calcium and vitamin deficiency, there are strong chances that the bones may become fragile, increasing the risk of fractures. In such a situation, dairy products and plant-based diets are considered to be the best sources of vitamin D and calcium. However, sometimes, the lack of calcium and vitamin D is not accomplished through nutrition; due to which doctors recommend taking supplements. But, there is a catch here. There might be a possibility of stroke if calcium and Vitamin D supplements are consumed together.

In a recent study, it has been claimed that if calcium and vitamin D supplements are consumed together, the risk of heart stroke increases manifold. The results of this study, published in The Annals of International Medicine, examined what and how these two supplements affect the human body.

Bad Effects On Cardiac Health

The research focused on 16 different nutritional supplements and 8 dietary interventions to understand how calcium and vitamin D supplements impact on an individual’s cardiac health. Research results suggest that taking calcium and vitamin D supplements together increases the risk of heart stroke by up to 17 per cent.

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The Arteries Become Compressed

American scientists believe that if taking these two medicines together, there is a possibility of atherosclerosis. This is a condition where the arteries become narrow due to formation of fat and cholesterol in the artery wall. To understand the situation better, following are some of the symptoms of atherosclerosis:

• Episodes of vomiting
• Extreme anxiety and depression
• Chest pain due to clogging of arteries
• Feeling of fainting and weakness due to lack of oxygen supply in the body

Timely Diagnosis is Important

It is essential to get to know the root cause of the health condition for appropriate treatment. In cases of atherosclerosis, following are some ways through which one can ascertain the chances of atherosclerosis:  

• Blood tests: In the case of heart problems, blood tests help in determining the limit of sugar, fat and protein count in the blood. If the blood sugar levels are high, there can be chances of atherosclerosis.
• Physical examinations: If experiencing any discomfort, the doctor might do a physical exam with the help of a stethoscope. In case of an unusual sound of ‘whooshing, the doctor might suggest tests further to know the root cause. Also, the weak pulse rate can be a reason for atherosclerosis, which is checked by the doctor with the help of his/her hand.
• Ultrasound: Ultrasound helps in checking the blood pressure levels in different parts of the body.

Also Read: High Iron Intake May Increase The Risk Of Stroke, Says Study

Lifestyle Modifications

Those at a higher risk of atherosclerosis should ensure to make some necessary lifestyle modifications for precautions. Following are some tips to prevent atherosclerosis for a healthy heart:

• Avoid Fatty Food: Those at a higher risk of atherosclerosis should make sure that their diet is free of fatty food. Fat deposits lead to atherosclerosis, and one of the major ways by which this can be controlled is by taking a balanced diet, free of trans fat. Avoid deep-fried food items to keep your arteries safe of accumulated fat. Include avocado, nuts, seafood in your diet.
• Exercising is a Must: Light to medium physical activities is essential for overall health. A sedentary lifestyle invariably adds to the chances of a weaker heart.
• Say No To Smoking: Smoking adds to the chances of cancer and other health-related problems. Smoking should be eliminated from the lifestyle of those at a higher risk of atherosclerosis.

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