Calcium
Calcium is essential for bone health. Supplemental benefit depends strongly on dietary intake and the outcome studied.
Overview
What is calcium?
Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body, and is essential for maintaining adequate skeletal health. It plays critical roles in muscle contraction, nerve transmission, blood clotting, and regulating heart function. Since the body cannot produce calcium, it must be obtained through diet or supplements to maintain bone health and prevent conditions like osteoporosis.
Dosage
The RDA for calcium is 1000–1200 mg per day for adults with a tolerable upper limit of 2000–2500 mg per day.
Effect graph
Effect heatmap
SupplementDEX Database
21 conditions for , and rated at least stars. All purchase bands. No minimum star filter.
Database Snapshot
Most calcium research is concentrated in a handful of conditions.
- Osteoporosis accounts for 35 of 207 studies (17%).
- High blood pressure accounts for 23 of 207 studies (11%).
- Obesity accounts for 22 of 207 studies (11%).
- Sparse coverage remains for Rickets, Bone density, Low birth weight.
Dietary Sources
Top dietary sources
Ranked by amount per 100 g
High amounts of calcium are found in common foods. The top dietary sources of calcium are:
- 1184 mg100 g
- 683 mg100 g
- 199 mg100 g
- 136 mg100 g
- 128 mg100 g
- 122 mg100 g
- 92 mg100 g
- 86 mg100 g
Safety
Calcium supplements are likely safe at appropriate doses but excessive doses can be harmful. The tolerable upper limit of calcium is 1000–2500 mg. Side effects include hypercalcemia, kidney stones and hypercalciuria.
Frequently Asked Questions
References
Sources192 references
SupplementDEX uses only high-quality sources to determine supplement effectiveness.
SupplementDEX Database · Indigestion (dyspepsia)
3 references1.SupplementDEX Database: Indigestion (dyspepsia) — Calcium Carbonate2016
A chemistry review describes calcium carbonate sources, polymorphs, and uses; it provides no clinical outcome data on supplementation.
3.SupplementDEX Database: Indigestion (dyspepsia) — Antacids revisited: a review of their clinical pharmacology and recommended therapeutic use1999
A clinical pharmacology review notes antacids including calcium carbonate remain useful for non-ulcer dyspepsia and as phosphate binders in chronic kidney failure.
2.Calcium carbonate can be used as an antacid for gastrointestinal ailments including indigestion. See external sourceExternal source
No source link
SupplementDEX Database · Kidney failure
6 references4.SupplementDEX Database: Kidney failure — Relationship of serum calcium concentration with chronic kidney disease and mortality in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: evidence from the NHANES 1999-20182025
In 6,595 NHANES adults with type 2 diabetes, serum calcium levels showed complex associations with diabetic kidney disease and mortality across stratified analyses.
5.SupplementDEX Database: Kidney failure — Benefits and harms of phosphate binders in CKD: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials2009
A systematic review of 40 CKD phosphate-binder trials (6,406 patients) found calcium salts lowered phosphorus and PTH vs sevelamer but increased hypercalcemia risk; mortality effects were unclear.
6.SupplementDEX Database: Kidney failure — Treatment of hyperphosphatemia in hemodialysis patients: The Calcium Acetate Renagel Evaluation (CARE Study)2004
In 100 hemodialysis patients over 8 weeks, calcium acetate achieved phosphorus and calcium-phosphate product targets more often than sevelamer, with transient hypercalcemia in 17%.
7.SupplementDEX Database: Kidney failure — A comparison of clinically useful phosphorus binders for patients with chronic kidney failure2004
A review compared phosphate binders in CKD, noting calcium carbonate and acetate effectively lower phosphorus but carry hypercalcemia and vascular calcification concerns.
8.SupplementDEX Database: Kidney failure — Long-term oral calcium supplementation reduces diastolic blood pressure in end stage renal disease. A randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled study1994
In 11 hemodialysis patients over 6 months, 2 g/day calcium lowered diastolic BP ~7 mmHg vs placebo while treating secondary hyperparathyroidism.
9.SupplementDEX Database: Kidney failure — Calcium citrate markedly enhances aluminum absorption from aluminum hydroxide1991
In 8 healthy men, calcium citrate markedly increased urinary aluminum absorption when co-ingested with aluminum hydroxide, raising concern about combined antacid use.
SupplementDEX Database · Bone density
1 reference10.SupplementDEX Database: Bone density — The effect of calcium supplementation in people under 35 years old: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials2022
A meta-analysis of 43 RCTs (7,382 people ≤35 years) found calcium supplementation modestly increased bone density, especially at the femoral neck and total body, with moderate-certainty evidence.
SupplementDEX Database · Colorectal cancer
17 references11.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Body mass index, calcium supplementation and risk of colorectal adenomas2018
Reanalysis of two adenoma prevention trials found calcium's benefit on high-risk adenomas was strongest in normal-BMI participants and absent in overweight/obese patients (interaction p=0.03).
12.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Effects of calcium on the incidence of recurrent colorectal adenomas: A systematic review with meta-analysis and trial sequential analysis of randomized controlled trials2017
A meta-analysis of 5 RCTs (2,234 adenoma patients) found calcium reduced recurrent adenoma risk (RR 0.88); trial sequential analysis supported a moderate protective effect.
13.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Calcium intake and colorectal adenoma risk: dose-response meta-analysis of prospective observational studies2015
A dose-response meta-analysis of 8 observational studies found each 300 mg/day higher total calcium linked to 5% lower colorectal adenoma risk, with stronger associations for high-risk adenomas.
14.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Calcium intake and colorectal cancer risk: dose-response meta-analysis of prospective observational studies2014
A meta-analysis of 15 cohorts found each 300 mg/day higher total calcium associated with ~8% lower colorectal cancer risk over 3–16 years of follow-up.
15.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Chemoprevention of colorectal cancer: systematic review and economic evaluation2010
A UK systematic review of chemoprevention trials concluded calcium can reduce adenomatous polyps but noted limited direct CRC endpoint data and mixed evidence across micronutrients.
16.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Supplemental calcium in the chemoprevention of colorectal cancer: a systematic review and meta-analysis2010
A systematic review of calcium RCTs found supplementation reduced recurrent adenomas across high-, intermediate-, and low-risk populations compared with placebo.
17.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Colorectal cancer risk and dietary intake of calcium, vitamin D, and dairy products: a meta-analysis of 26,335 cases from 60 observational studies2009
A meta-analysis of 60 observational studies (26,335 CRC cases) found high milk/dairy intake linked to 16–22% lower colon cancer risk; high calcium showed greater protection in distal colon and rectum.
18.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Prolonged effect of calcium supplementation on risk of colorectal adenomas in a randomized trial2007
In 930 adenoma patients, 1200 mg/day calcium for 4 years reduced recurrence during treatment; protective effect persisted 5 years after stopping supplementation in follow-up analysis.
19.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Calcium plus vitamin D supplementation and the risk of colorectal cancer2006
In WHI (36,282 postmenopausal women), 1000 mg calcium plus 400 IU vitamin D daily for ~7 years did not reduce invasive colorectal cancer vs placebo (HR 1.08).
20.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Role of supplemental calcium in the recurrence of colorectal adenomas: a metaanalysis of randomized controlled trials2005
A meta-analysis of 3 RCTs (1,485 prior adenoma patients) found calcium supplementation reduced adenoma recurrence (RR 0.80) over 3–4 years of follow-up.
21.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Dairy foods, calcium, and colorectal cancer: a pooled analysis of 10 cohort studies2004
A pooled analysis of 10 cohorts (534,536 adults) found higher milk intake and calcium inversely associated with colorectal cancer; ≥250 g/day milk linked to 15% lower risk.
22.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Dietary calcium supplementation for preventing colorectal cancer and adenomatous polyps2004
A Cochrane review of calcium RCTs using adenoma endpoints concluded supplementary calcium likely reduces adenomatous polyp recurrence, though direct colorectal cancer data remain limited.
23.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Vitamin D, calcium supplementation, and colorectal adenomas: results of a randomized trial2003
In 803 adenoma patients, calcium reduced recurrence only among those with baseline 25(OH)D at or below 29.1 ng/mL; vitamin D status modified calcium's preventive effect.
24.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Dietary calcium and vitamin D intake and risk of colorectal cancer: a prospective cohort study in women2002
In 61,463 women followed 11.3 years, highest dietary calcium (~914 mg/day) was linked to 28% lower colorectal cancer risk vs lowest intake, especially for distal cancers.
25.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Calcium supplements for the prevention of colorectal adenomas. Calcium Polyp Prevention Study Group1999
An RCT of 930 adenoma patients found 1200 mg/day calcium carbonate for up to 4 years reduced adenoma recurrence (RR 0.85) vs placebo over surveillance colonoscopy.
26.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Relationship between vitamin and calcium supplement use and colon cancer1997
A Seattle case-control study of 444 adults found daily vitamin D (≥200 IU) and multivitamin use associated with roughly halved colon cancer risk over 10 years.
27.SupplementDEX Database: Colorectal cancer — Calcium does not protect against colorectal neoplasia1996
A meta-analysis of 43 epidemiologic measures found overall calcium intake did not clearly protect against colorectal neoplasia (RR 0.89); adenoma and carcinoma results differed.
28.SupplementDEX Database: Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis — Calcium and vitamin D for corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis2000
A Cochrane review of 5 trials (274 corticosteroid patients) found calcium plus vitamin D increased lumbar and radial BMD at 2 years but did not reduce fractures.
29.SupplementDEX Database: Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis — Calcium and vitamin D therapy in corticosteroid-induced bone loss: what is the evidence?1999
A narrative review concluded calcium alone offers only partial protection against corticosteroid-induced bone loss and should be adjunctive to stronger anti-osteoporosis therapy.
30.SupplementDEX Database: Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis — The role of vitamin D in corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis: a meta-analytic approach1999
A meta-analysis found vitamin D plus calcium improved lumbar spine BMD (effect size 0.60) vs no therapy in corticosteroid-treated patients over ≥6 months.
31.SupplementDEX Database: Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis — Effect of low-dose prednisone (with calcium and calcitriol supplementation) on calcium and bone metabolism in healthy volunteers1998
In 8 healthy men, 1 week of 10 mg/day prednisone altered bone turnover markers; adding calcium or calcitriol partially mitigated but did not fully prevent changes.
32.SupplementDEX Database: Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis — [Pharmacological prevention of osteoporosis in patients on corticosteroid medication]1998
A review noted ~25% of long-term corticosteroid users fracture; calcium/vitamin D alone is insufficient and bisphosphonates show clearer preventive benefit in high-risk patients.
33.SupplementDEX Database: Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis — A randomized, placebo-controlled trial of calcium supplementation for decreased bone density in corticosteroid-using patients with inflammatory bowel disease: a pilot study1996
A 1-year pilot RCT in corticosteroid-using IBD patients found 1000 mg calcium plus 250 IU vitamin D did not significantly improve bone density vs placebo.
34.SupplementDEX Database: Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis — Calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation prevents bone loss in the spine secondary to low-dose corticosteroids in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial1996
In 96 RA patients over 2 years, 1000 mg calcium plus 500 IU vitamin D prevented spinal bone loss in prednisone users who gained lumbar BMD vs placebo losses.
35.SupplementDEX Database: Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis — Vitamin D and calcium in the prevention of corticosteroid induced osteoporosis: a 3 year followup1996
A 36-month minimized trial in 62 corticosteroid-treated patients found vitamin D 50,000 IU/week plus 1000 mg/day calcium did not significantly differ from placebo in lumbar BMD change.
36.SupplementDEX Database: Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis — Recommendations for the prevention and treatment of glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis. American College of Rheumatology Task Force on Osteoporosis Guidelines1996
ACR Task Force guidelines recommend calcium and vitamin D as baseline measures for preventing and treating glucocorticoid-induced osteoporosis alongside other therapies.
37.SupplementDEX Database: Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis — Differential effect of glucocorticoids on calcium absorption and bone mass1993
Short- and long-term glucocorticoid comparisons found betamethasone and high-dose prednisone impaired calcium absorption and lumbar bone mineral content more than deflazacort.
38.SupplementDEX Database: Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis — Calcium metabolism and osteoporosis in corticosteroid-treated postmenopausal women1986
In 30 postmenopausal women on prednisolone, osteoporotic cases had lower calcium absorption and higher urinary calcium and hydroxyproline than those with normal spine films.
39.SupplementDEX Database: Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis — Calcium supplements in the prevention of steroid-induced osteoporosis1986
In 13 steroid-treated patients, 1 g/day elemental calcium for 2 months suppressed urinary hydroxyproline, suggesting reduced bone resorption without blocking formation markers.
40.SupplementDEX Database: Corticosteroid-induced osteoporosis — Total body calcium in rheumatoid arthritis: effects of disease activity and corticosteroid treatment1982
Neutron activation analysis in 94 RA patients showed greater total body calcium loss with added low-dose corticosteroids than with NSAIDs alone, beyond disease-related loss.
SupplementDEX Database · High blood pressure
23 references41.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D supplementations as complementary therapy for hypertensive patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis2025
A meta-analysis of 24 hypertension trials found calcium lowered diastolic BP by ~2 mmHg but not systolic BP; magnesium lowered DBP slightly; vitamin D showed no BP effect.
42.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Cardiometabolic Indices after Weight Loss with Calcium or Dairy Foods: Secondary Analyses from a Randomized Trial with Overweight/Obese Postmenopausal Women2022
Secondary analysis of a weight-loss RCT in 97 postmenopausal women found calcium/vitamin D or dairy arms lowered systolic BP ~5% and improved some lipids vs control over 6 months.
43.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Calcium supplementation for prevention of primary hypertension2022
A Cochrane update of normotensive adults found calcium supplementation produced small blood-pressure reductions but insufficient evidence for primary hypertension prevention.
44.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Calcium supplementation during pregnancy and long-term offspring outcome: a systematic literature review and meta-analysis2022
A meta-analysis of 6 pregnancy RCTs found high-dose maternal calcium associated with lower offspring systolic BP at ages 5–7 in one trial; other long-term outcomes remained uncertain.
45.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Effects of calcium plus vitamin D supplementation on blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials2017
A meta-analysis of 8 RCTs (36,806 participants) found calcium plus vitamin D did not meaningfully change systolic or diastolic blood pressure vs control.
46.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Effect of calcium and vitamin D supplementation on blood pressure: the Women's Health Initiative Randomized Trial2008
In WHI (36,282 postmenopausal women, median 7 years), 1000 mg calcium plus 400 IU vitamin D did not lower blood pressure or incident hypertension vs placebo.
47.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Effect of maternal calcium intake during pregnancy on children's blood pressure: a systematic review of the literature2007
A systematic review of maternal calcium intake and offspring BP found inconsistent evidence across 2 RCTs and 3 observational studies with substantial loss to follow-up.
48.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Blood pressure response to calcium supplementation: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials2006
A meta-analysis of 40 calcium trials (2,492 non-pregnant adults) found ~1200 mg/day calcium lowered systolic BP 1.9 mmHg and diastolic BP 1.0 mmHg, with larger effects at low baseline intake.
49.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Calcium supplementation for the management of primary hypertension in adults2006
A Cochrane review in hypertensive adults found oral calcium produced small BP reductions but insufficient evidence that it effectively treats primary hypertension.
50.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Effects of calcium supplementation on body weight and blood pressure in normal older women: a randomized controlled trial2005
In 739 postmenopausal women over 30 months, 1 g/day calcium did not affect body weight or fat mass; a small early systolic BP difference did not persist.
51.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Dietary calcium, vitamin D, and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in middle-aged and older U.S. women2005
In 10,066 women ≥45 years, higher total calcium intake was inversely associated with metabolic syndrome prevalence; vitamin D intake showed no independent association.
52.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Calcium from dairy products, vitamin D intake, and blood pressure: the Tromso Study2000
In 8,053 Norwegian adults, higher dairy calcium intake correlated with 1–3 mmHg lower blood pressure, but absolute differences between intake groups were small.
53.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — The influence of dietary and nondietary calcium supplementation on blood pressure: an updated metaanalysis of randomized controlled trials1999
An updated meta-analysis of 42 calcium BP trials found pooled small systolic reductions with supplementation; effects varied by baseline BP and study quality.
54.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Dietary calcium, calcium supplementation, and blood pressure in African American adolescents1998
In 116 African American adolescents over 8 weeks, 1.5 g/day calcium lowered diastolic BP 1.9 mmHg vs placebo in a crossover RCT.
55.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Calcium supplementation in patients with essential hypertension: assessment by office, home and ambulatory blood pressure1998
In 60 hypertensive adults, 1 g/day calcium for 8 weeks produced small office, home, and ambulatory BP reductions, significant mainly for home measurements.
56.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Efficacy of nonpharmacologic interventions in adults with high-normal blood pressure: results from phase 1 of the Trials of Hypertension Prevention. Trials of Hypertension Prevention Collaborative Research Group1997
TOHP phase 1 in 2,182 adults found weight loss and sodium reduction lowered BP at 18 months; calcium, magnesium, potassium, and fish oil did not.
57.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Dietary calcium and blood pressure: a meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials1996
A meta-analysis of 22 dietary calcium trials (1,231 adults) found pooled systolic BP fell 0.89 mmHg with supplementation; hypertensive subgroups showed larger effects.
58.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Effects of dietary calcium supplementation on blood pressure. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials1996
A meta-analysis of 33 trials (2,412 adults) found calcium lowered systolic BP 1.27 mmHg and diastolic BP 0.24 mmHg vs control over ≥2 weeks.
59.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Lack of blood pressure effect with calcium and magnesium supplementation in adults with high-normal blood pressure. Results from Phase I of the Trials of Hypertension Prevention (TOHP). Trials of Hypertension Prevention (TOHP) Collaborative Research Group1995
TOHP phase 1 in 698 adults with high-normal BP found 1 g/day calcium or 360 mg magnesium for 6 months did not significantly change blood pressure overall.
60.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Epidemiologic association between dietary calcium intake and blood pressure: a meta-analysis of published data1995
An epidemiologic meta-analysis of 23 population studies (38,950 people) found modest inverse associations between dietary calcium and blood pressure, with wide study heterogeneity.
61.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — The blood pressure effects of calcium supplementation in humans of known sodium responsiveness1993
In 46 adults stratified by salt sensitivity, 1.5 g/day calcium for 8 weeks lowered BP in Black and salt-sensitive subgroups but not in the full group.
62.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Calcium and blood pressure. An epidemiologic perspective1990
A review of 25 observational and 19 calcium RCTs concluded epidemiologic links exist but trial evidence shows at best small systolic BP reductions, not consistent diastolic effects.
63.SupplementDEX Database: High blood pressure — Oral calcium supplementation and blood pressure: an overview of randomized controlled trials1989
A review of 15 calcium RCTs (~400 people) found no meaningful supine BP lowering; a small standing BP effect was insufficient to recommend calcium for hypertension treatment.
SupplementDEX Database · Hyperparathyroidism
7 references64.SupplementDEX Database: Hyperparathyroidism — Calcium intake and risk of primary hyperparathyroidism in women: prospective cohort study2012
In 58,354 Nurses' Health Study II women followed 22 years, higher dietary and supplemental calcium intake was associated with lower primary hyperparathyroidism risk.
65.SupplementDEX Database: Hyperparathyroidism — Combined calcium and vitamin D3 supplementation in elderly women: confirmation of reversal of secondary hyperparathyroidism and hip fracture risk: the Decalyos II study2002
In 583 institutionalized women (~85 years), 1200 mg calcium plus 800 IU vitamin D reduced parathyroid hormone and hip fractures over 2 years in the Decalyos II trial.
66.SupplementDEX Database: Hyperparathyroidism — A randomized trial of sevelamer hydrochloride (RenaGel) with and without supplemental calcium. Strategies for the control of hyperphosphatemia and hyperparathyroidism in hemodialysis patients1999
In 71 hemodialysis patients over 16 weeks, sevelamer alone or with 900 mg nightly calcium equally lowered serum phosphorus; calcium co-administration modestly raised serum calcium.
67.SupplementDEX Database: Hyperparathyroidism — Secondary hyperparathyroidism in severe chronic renal failure is corrected by very-low dietary phosphate intake and calcium carbonate supplementation1998
In 21 severe CKD patients, a very-low-phosphate diet plus 2–4 g/day calcium carbonate lowered intact PTH ~49% over 4 months without vitamin D therapy.
68.SupplementDEX Database: Hyperparathyroidism — Effect of administering calcium carbonate to treat secondary hyperparathyroidism in nondialyzed patients with chronic renal failure1995
In 20 nondialyzed CKD patients, 3 g/day calcium carbonate for 6 months suppressed PTH and phosphorus without worsening renal function; effects reversed after withdrawal.
69.SupplementDEX Database: Hyperparathyroidism — Oral calcium effectively reduces parathyroid hormone levels in hemodialysis patients: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled study1993
In 20 hemodialysis patients over 6 months, 2 g/day oral calcium raised ionized calcium and cut PTH ~54% vs stable phosphate and unchanged PTH on placebo.
70.SupplementDEX Database: Hyperparathyroidism — Suppression of secondary hyperparathyroidism in children with chronic renal failure by high dose phosphate binders: calcium carbonate versus aluminium hydroxide1985
In 12 children with CKF, high-dose calcium carbonate or aluminum hydroxide with phosphate restriction normalized PTH and improved growth; agents performed similarly.
SupplementDEX Database · Osteoporosis
35 references71.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — The clinician's guide to prevention and treatment of osteoporosis2022
A clinician guide reviews osteoporosis prevention with adequate calcium, vitamin D, exercise, and antifracture medications; it is not an interventional trial.
72.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Effect of Calcium Fortified Foods on Health Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis2021
A meta-analysis of 20 calcium-fortification trials found fortified foods can raise calcium intake and bone outcomes in women and children, with heterogeneous quality.
73.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Vitamin D, Calcium, or Combined Supplementation for the Primary Prevention of Fractures in Community-Dwelling Adults: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement2018
The USPSTF found inadequate evidence that vitamin D with or without calcium prevents fractures in community-dwelling adults without known bone metabolism disorders.
74.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Dietary calcium intake and rate of bone loss in men2017
In 99 men over 2 years, neither baseline nor change in calcium intake predicted BMD loss at hip, spine, or total body despite inverse association with PTH.
75.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Vitamin D and vitamin D analogues for preventing fractures in post-menopausal women and older men2014
A Cochrane review of vitamin D trials in older adults found supplementation with calcium reduced hip fractures; vitamin D alone showed inconsistent fracture effects.
76.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Efficacy of vitamin D3 supplementation in preventing fractures in elderly women: a meta-analysis2010
A meta-analysis in postmenopausal women found 800 IU/day vitamin D3 with calcium reduced nonvertebral fractures (OR 0.77) and improved BMD vs control.
77.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Efficacy of ossein-hydroxyapatite complex compared with calcium carbonate to prevent bone loss: a meta-analysis2009
A meta-analysis of 6 trials found ossein-hydroxyapatite complex preserved trabecular BMD better than calcium carbonate over treatment periods.
78.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — The effect of calcium supplementation on bone loss in 32 controlled trials in postmenopausal women2009
A review of 32 postmenopausal calcium trials (3,169 women) found calcium slowed bone loss from ~1.07% to ~0.27% per year, with effect weakening after 4 years.
79.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Interventions for preventing bone disease in kidney transplant recipients2007
A Cochrane review in kidney transplant recipients found bisphosphonates and vitamin D analogues improve BMD but no intervention clearly reduced fractures.
80.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Use of calcium or calcium in combination with vitamin D supplementation to prevent fractures and bone loss in people aged 50 years and older: a meta-analysis2007
A meta-analysis of 29 trials (63,897 adults ≥50) found calcium with or without vitamin D reduced all fractures 12% and slowed hip/spine bone loss.
81.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Fracture prevention with vitamin D supplementation: considering the inconsistent results2007
An extended meta-analysis including newer trials found high-dose vitamin D reduced nonvertebral fractures in earlier work, but recent large RCTs did not confirm the effect.
82.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Interventions for preventing bone disease in kidney transplant recipients: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials2005
In 23 kidney transplant trials (1,209 patients), bisphosphonates, vitamin D analogues, and calcitonin improved lumbar BMD but no treatment reduced fracture risk.
83.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Oral vitamin D3 and calcium for secondary prevention of low-trauma fractures in elderly people (Randomised Evaluation of Calcium Or vitamin D, RECORD): a randomised placebo-controlled trial2005
In 5,292 elderly fracture patients, 800 IU vitamin D3 with or without 1000 mg calcium did not reduce new low-trauma fractures over up to 62 months.
84.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Randomised controlled trial of calcium and supplementation with cholecalciferol (vitamin D3) for prevention of fractures in primary care2005
In 3,314 women ≥70 years with fracture risk, 1000 mg calcium plus 800 IU vitamin D for ~25 months did not significantly lower clinical fracture rates vs leaflet-only control.
85.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — The Canadian health claim for calcium, vitamin D and osteoporosis2004
A Canadian evidence review supporting a health claim concluded adequate calcium and vitamin D with exercise may reduce osteoporosis risk based on available trial data.
86.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Vitamin D and calcium supplementation prevents osteoporotic fractures in elderly community dwelling residents: a pragmatic population-based 3-year intervention study2004
A pragmatic cluster RCT in 9,605 Danish adults ≥66 years found offering 1000 mg calcium plus 400 IU vitamin D reduced osteoporotic fracture hospitalizations in a vitamin D–deficient region.
87.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Effects of calcitriol or calcium on bone mineral density, bone turnover, and fractures in men with primary osteoporosis: a two-year randomized, double blind, double placebo study2001
In 41 men with primary osteoporosis over 2 years, calcitriol or calcium 500 mg twice daily did not clearly reduce new fragility fractures vs each other.
88.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Effect of 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and calcium carbonate on bone loss associated with long-term renal transplantation2000
In 30 kidney transplant recipients over 1 year, calcitriol plus 500 mg/day calcium increased lumbar and femoral neck BMD similarly to control, without between-group differences.
89.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Postmenopausal osteoporosis. Strategies for preventing bone loss, avoiding fracture2000
A clinical review summarizes lifestyle and pharmacologic osteoporosis prevention in postmenopausal women; it does not report original trial outcomes.
90.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Calcium, dairy products and osteoporosis2000
A review of 139 calcium-bone studies concluded high calcium intakes generally support bone health, with strongest trial evidence from supplements and dairy sources.
91.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Can calcium and vitamin D supplementation adequately treat most patients with osteoporosis?2000
A clinical review asks whether calcium and vitamin D alone adequately treat osteoporosis; it provides expert commentary rather than new trial data.
92.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Effect of withdrawal of calcium and vitamin D supplements on bone mass in elderly men and women2000
In 295 elderly adults after 3 years of calcium/vitamin D, stopping supplements reversed most BMD gains within 2 years, with limited residual total-body benefit in men.
93.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Efficacy of calcium supplements on bone mass in postmenopausal women1999
A review article on calcium supplements and postmenopausal bone mass is cited without an available abstract detailing specific trial outcomes.
94.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — The new dietary reference intakes for calcium: implications for osteoporosis1999
A policy review explains new DRIs setting adult calcium at 1000–1200 mg/day to optimize retention and reduce fracture susceptibility.
95.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — A prospective study of bone loss and turnover after allogeneic bone marrow transplantation: effect of calcium supplementation with or without calcitonin1999
In 69 BMT recipients, 12 months of calcium with or without calcitonin did not clearly prevent post-transplant bone loss vs no added treatment.
96.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — The use of calcium in the management of osteoporosis1999
A narrative review on calcium in osteoporosis management provides clinical guidance without reporting quantified trial results in the available abstract.
97.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Preventing postmenopausal bone loss with ossein-hydroxyapatite compounds. Results of a two-year, prospective trial1999
In 60 postmenopausal women over 24 months, ossein-hydroxyapatite prevented bone loss whereas 2.5 g/day calcium carbonate lost ~3.7% BMD in year 2.
98.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Calcium potentiates the effect of estrogen and calcitonin on bone mass: review and analysis1998
A review of estrogen and calcitonin trials found adding ~1183 mg/day calcium roughly doubled lumbar and femoral neck BMD gains vs hormone therapy alone.
99.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Calcium and vitamin D supplementation increases spinal BMD in healthy, postmenopausal women1998
In 240 postmenopausal women over 2 years, calcium plus vitamin D raised lumbar spine BMD 1.6% vs no change on placebo.
100.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — First- and second-year effects in trials of calcium supplementation on the loss of bone density in postmenopausal women1997
A meta-analysis of postmenopausal calcium trials found bone-protective effects were significant only in the first year after starting supplementation, not the second.
101.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — The effect of calcium supplementation on bone density during lactation and after weaning1997
In lactating women, 1 g/day calcium did not prevent lumbar spine loss during breastfeeding but enhanced bone gain after weaning vs placebo.
102.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Calcium for prevention of osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women1997
A systematic review of calcium fracture trials found RCTs suggested 25–70% fracture risk reduction, but observational dietary calcium data on hip fracture were inconsistent.
103.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Effect of calcium and vitamin D supplementation on bone density in men and women 65 years of age or older1997
In 389 adults ≥65 years over 3 years, 500 mg calcium plus 700 IU vitamin D increased femoral neck, spine, and total-body BMD vs placebo and lowered nonvertebral fracture incidence.
104.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Vitamin D3 and calcium to prevent hip fractures in elderly women1992
In 3,270 elderly women over 18 months, 1.2 g calcium plus 800 IU vitamin D reduced hip fractures 43% and nonvertebral fractures 32% vs double placebo.
105.SupplementDEX Database: Osteoporosis — Calcium intake and bone mass: a quantitative review of the evidence1990
A quantitative review of 49 calcium-bone studies found supplements consistently slowed postmenopausal bone loss, with stronger effects at low baseline calcium intake.
SupplementDEX Database · Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
12 references106.SupplementDEX Database: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — Effect of calcium on premenstrual syndrome: A double-blind randomized clinical trial2017
An RCT of 66 women with PMS found 500 mg/day calcium for 2 months reduced symptom scores vs placebo in the first and second treatment cycles.
107.SupplementDEX Database: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — Effects of Calcium-Vitamin D and Calcium-Alone on Pain Intensity and Menstrual Blood Loss in Women with Primary Dysmenorrhea: A Randomized Controlled Trial2017
In women with primary dysmenorrhea, 1000 mg calcium with or without vitamin D did not significantly beat placebo on pain intensity or menstrual blood loss over three cycles.
108.SupplementDEX Database: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — Effect of Combined Use of Calcium and Vitamin B6 on Premenstrual Syndrome Symptoms: a Randomized Clinical Trial2016
An RCT of 76 women found combined calcium 500 mg plus vitamin B6 reduced PMS symptoms more than B6 alone over 2 months.
109.SupplementDEX Database: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — A pilot study to compare fluoxetine, calcium, and placebo in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome2013
A 4-cycle pilot RCT in 39 women found fluoxetine improved PMS more than calcium 600 mg twice daily or placebo; calcium effect sizes were small.
110.SupplementDEX Database: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — Herbs, vitamins and minerals in the treatment of premenstrual syndrome: a systematic review2009
A systematic review found RCT evidence supports calcium for PMS among many claimed supplements, though products and doses varied across trials.
111.SupplementDEX Database: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — Effects of calcium supplement therapy in women with premenstrual syndrome2009
In young women with PMS over 3 months, 500 mg calcium twice daily improved fatigue, appetite changes, and depression vs placebo.
112.SupplementDEX Database: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — Calcium and vitamin D intake and risk of incident premenstrual syndrome2005
In NHS II (1,057 incident PMS cases), higher vitamin D and calcium intake were inversely associated with developing PMS over 10 years of follow-up.
113.SupplementDEX Database: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — The potential for dietary supplements to reduce premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms2000
A review concluded calcium is the only supplement with strong double-blind evidence for PMS symptom reduction; magnesium and vitamin E evidence is limited.
114.SupplementDEX Database: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — Calcium carbonate and the premenstrual syndrome: effects on premenstrual and menstrual symptoms. Premenstrual Syndrome Study Group1998
A multicenter RCT of 497 women found 1200 mg/day calcium carbonate over 3 cycles reduced core PMS symptom scores vs placebo.
115.SupplementDEX Database: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — Dietary calcium and manganese effects on menstrual cycle symptoms1993
In 10 women in metabolic ward diets, higher calcium reduced mood, pain, and water-retention symptoms during menstrual cycles; manganese intake modified some effects.
116.SupplementDEX Database: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — Premenstrual and menstrual symptom clusters and response to calcium treatment1991
In 33 women in a crossover trial, calcium reduced negative affect, water retention, and pain during luteal and menstrual phases vs control periods.
117.SupplementDEX Database: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) — Calcium supplementation in premenstrual syndrome: a randomized crossover trial1989
An RCT of 33 women with PMS found 1000 mg/day calcium carbonate for 3 months reduced luteal-phase symptom scores vs placebo.
SupplementDEX Database · Preeclampsia
18 references118.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Effectiveness of calcium supplementation in the prevention of gestational hypertension: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials2024
A meta-analysis of 22 pregnancy RCTs (39,270 women) found calcium supplementation significantly reduced preeclampsia and related hypertensive disorders vs control.
119.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Two Randomized Trials of Low-Dose Calcium Supplementation in Pregnancy2024
Two RCTs of 11,000 nulliparous women each found 500 mg/day calcium noninferior to 1500 mg/day for preventing preeclampsia and preterm birth in India and Tanzania.
120.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Clinical efficacy of low-dose aspirin combined with calcium in preventing preeclampsia: A systematic review and meta-analysis2023
A meta-analysis of 7 RCTs found low-dose aspirin plus calcium lowered preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, preterm birth, and postpartum hemorrhage vs control.
121.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Calcium for pre-eclampsia prevention: A systematic review and network meta-analysis to guide personalised antenatal care2022
A network meta-analysis of 30 trials (20,445 women) found high (≥1 g/day) and low calcium doses similarly halved preeclampsia risk; benefits were greatest with low baseline intake.
122.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Prepregnancy and early pregnancy calcium supplementation among women at high risk of pre-eclampsia: a multicentre, double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled trial2019
In 678 high-risk women, 500 mg/day calcium before 20 weeks did not prevent preeclampsia; all received 1.5 g/day after 20 weeks per protocol.
123.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Calcium and Vitamin D Supplementation for Prevention of Preeclampsia: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis2017
A network meta-analysis of 27 pregnancy RCTs (28,000 women) found calcium, vitamin D, or both reduced preeclampsia risk vs placebo with overlapping effect sizes.
124.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Calcium supplementation during pregnancy for preventing hypertensive disorders and related problems2014
A Cochrane review of 13 high-quality trials (15,730 women) found ≥1 g/day calcium reduced high BP (RR 0.65) and preeclampsia (RR 0.45), especially in low-calcium diets.
125.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Calcium supplementation during pregnancy for preventing hypertensive disorders and related problems2010
A Cochrane update of 13 trials (15,730 women) confirmed calcium ≥1 g/day lowered hypertension and preeclampsia, with largest effects in high-risk and low-calcium populations.
126.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Calcium supplementation during pregnancy for preventing hypertensive disorders and related problems2006
An earlier Cochrane review of 12 trials (15,206 women) found daily calcium cut high BP risk 30% and preeclampsia risk 52% vs placebo.
127.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Dietary fiber, potassium, magnesium and calcium in relation to the risk of preeclampsia2005
A case-control study of 511 women found higher fiber and potassium intake inversely associated with preeclampsia; calcium showed a nonsignificant trend toward protection.
128.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Supplementary calcium in prevention of pre-eclampsia2001
In 30 high-risk Iranian pregnancies, 2 g/day calcium reduced preeclampsia 7-fold vs placebo and delayed hypertension onset, though sample size was small.
129.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Calcium supplementation in nulliparous women for the prevention of pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia and preterm birth: an Australian randomized trial. FRACOG and the ACT Study Group1999
In 456 Australian nulliparas, 1.8 g/day calcium reduced preeclampsia and preterm birth (RR 0.44 each); pooled trials also showed lower hypertension risk.
130.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Resolving discrepancies between a meta-analysis and a subsequent large controlled trial1999
Reanalysis reconciling calcium meta-analyses with the large CPEP null trial found heterogeneity by population calcium intake and risk profile explained conflicting results.
131.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Nutritional interventions for the prevention of maternal morbidity1998
A nutritional interventions overview found calcium most clearly reduced hypertension and preeclampsia in high-risk or low-calcium pregnant populations.
132.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Risk factors associated with preeclampsia in healthy nulliparous women. The Calcium for Preeclampsia Prevention (CPEP) Study Group1997
Baseline analysis of 4,314 CPEP nulliparas identified BMI, BP, and race among predictors of preeclampsia; randomization to calcium did not predict outcome.
133.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Trial of calcium to prevent preeclampsia1997
In 4,589 healthy nulliparas, 2 g/day calcium from mid-pregnancy did not reduce preeclampsia (6.9% vs 7.3%) or its severity vs placebo in the CPEP trial.
134.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Effect of calcium supplementation on pregnancy-induced hypertension and preeclampsia: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials1996
A meta-analysis of 14 pregnancy trials (2,459 women) found calcium lowered systolic BP 5.4 mmHg, diastolic BP 3.4 mmHg, and preeclampsia odds 62%.
135.SupplementDEX Database: Preeclampsia — Calcium supplementation and prevention of pregnancy induced hypertension1996
In 190 nulliparous women from 20 weeks, 2 g/day calcium reduced pregnancy-induced hypertension and preeclampsia vs placebo in a community RCT.
SupplementDEX Database · Rickets
2 references136.SupplementDEX Database: Rickets — Nutritional Rickets and Osteomalacia in the Twenty-first Century: Revised Concepts, Public Health, and Prevention Strategies2017
A consensus review recommends 400 IU infant vitamin D and 600 IU in pregnancy alongside adequate calcium to prevent rickets and osteomalacia globally.
137.SupplementDEX Database: Rickets — Optimal Dose of Calcium for Treatment of Nutritional Rickets: A Randomized Controlled Trial2016
In 65 Nigerian children with rickets, 1000 mg/day calcium healed radiographic disease faster than 500 mg/day over 24 weeks; 2000 mg/day offered no extra benefit.
SupplementDEX Database · Tooth loss
1 reference138.SupplementDEX Database: Tooth loss — Calcium and vitamin D supplements reduce tooth loss in the elderly2001
In 145 elderly adults over 3 years, 1000 mg calcium plus vitamin D reduced tooth loss vs placebo during supplementation; benefits waned after stopping.
SupplementDEX Database · All-cause mortality
4 references139.SupplementDEX Database: All-cause mortality — Nutritional therapy of older osteoporotic people with supplemental calcium and vitamin D: side effects, fracture rates, and survival - an internationalised meta-analysis2024
A meta-analysis of 19 RCTs (69,234 older adults) found calcium plus vitamin D did not reduce mortality but lowered fracture incidence and raised bone density and 25(OH)D, with more GI adverse events.
140.SupplementDEX Database: All-cause mortality — Supplemental Vitamins and Minerals for CVD Prevention and Treatment2018
A systematic review found moderate evidence for folic acid/B-vitamin cardiovascular benefits but no clear preventive benefit from calcium, vitamin D, multivitamins, or selenium on CVD or all-cause mortality.
141.SupplementDEX Database: All-cause mortality — The effects of calcium supplementation on verified coronary heart disease hospitalization and death in postmenopausal women: a collaborative meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials2015
A meta-analysis of 18 RCTs (63,563 postmenopausal women) found calcium with or without vitamin D did not increase CHD events (RR 1.02) or all-cause mortality (RR 0.96) vs placebo.
142.SupplementDEX Database: All-cause mortality — Vitamin D with calcium reduces mortality: patient level pooled analysis of 70,528 patients from eight major vitamin D trials2012
A patient-level pooled analysis of 70,528 participants in 8 vitamin D trials found vitamin D plus calcium reduced mortality 7% (HR 0.93) over ~3 years; vitamin D alone had no mortality effect.
SupplementDEX Database · Breast cancer
9 references143.SupplementDEX Database: Breast cancer — Association between calcium intake and risk of breast cancer: An updated systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of cohort studies2023
A dose-response meta-analysis of 7 cohorts (1.58 million participants) found each 350 mg/day higher dietary calcium linked to 6% lower breast cancer risk; total calcium showed weaker associations.
144.SupplementDEX Database: Breast cancer — Dietary calcium, vitamin D, and breast cancer risk in women: findings from the SUN cohort2021
In 10,812 women followed 10.7 years, moderate total calcium intake (~1400 mg/day) was associated with lower breast cancer risk, especially postmenopausally; vitamin D intake showed no association.
145.SupplementDEX Database: Breast cancer — Dairy foods, calcium, and risk of breast cancer overall and for subtypes defined by estrogen receptor status: a pooled analysis of 21 cohort studies2021
A pooled analysis of >1 million women found no clear overall link between dairy, dietary, or total calcium and breast cancer, though yogurt and cottage/ricotta cheese showed subtype-specific patterns.
146.SupplementDEX Database: Breast cancer — Effect of dietary sources of calcium and protein on hip fractures and falls in older adults in residential care: cluster randomised controlled trial2021
A 2-year cluster RCT in 7,195 aged-care residents found extra dairy (562 mg/day calcium) reduced hip fractures (HR 0.43) and falls vs usual menus providing ~700 mg/day calcium.
147.SupplementDEX Database: Breast cancer — Calcium intake and breast cancer risk: meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies2016
A meta-analysis of 11 cohorts (872,895 participants) found high vs low calcium intake associated with 8% lower breast cancer risk overall and stronger protection for premenopausal disease.
148.SupplementDEX Database: Breast cancer — Calcium plus vitamin D supplementation and health outcomes five years after active intervention ended: the Women's Health Initiative2013
In WHI (36,282 postmenopausal women), 7 years of 1000 mg calcium plus 400 IU vitamin D did not reduce hip fracture, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, CVD, or mortality; post-intervention follow-up was similar.
149.SupplementDEX Database: Breast cancer — Vitamin D and calcium: a systematic review of health outcomes2009
An AHRQ systematic review commissioned for DRI revision summarized evidence linking vitamin D, calcium, and combined intake to diverse health outcomes without drawing single definitive conclusions.
150.SupplementDEX Database: Breast cancer — Calcium plus vitamin D supplementation and the risk of breast cancer2007
In WHI (36,282 postmenopausal women), 1000 mg calcium plus 400 IU vitamin D daily for ~7 years did not reduce invasive breast cancer incidence vs placebo.
151.SupplementDEX Database: Breast cancer — Intakes of calcium and vitamin D and breast cancer risk in women2007
In 31,487 women followed ~10 years, higher calcium and vitamin D intake were modestly associated with lower premenopausal breast cancer risk but not clearly in postmenopausal women.
SupplementDEX Database · Fractures
10 references152.SupplementDEX Database: Fractures — Role of calcium &/or vitamin D supplementation in preventing osteoporotic fracture in the elderly: A systematic review & meta-analysis2023
A meta-analysis of 18 elderly RCTs found neither calcium nor vitamin D alone significantly reduced hip fractures; combined supplementation also lacked clear fracture benefit.
153.SupplementDEX Database: Fractures — Vitamin D and Calcium for the Prevention of Fracture: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis2019
A 2018 meta-analysis of large RCTs found vitamin D or calcium supplementation did not meaningfully reduce total, hip, or vertebral fractures in community adults.
154.SupplementDEX Database: Fractures — Association Between Calcium or Vitamin D Supplementation and Fracture Incidence in Community-Dwelling Older Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis2017
A meta-analysis of community adults ≥50 years found calcium, vitamin D, or combined supplementation was not associated with lower fracture incidence vs control.
155.SupplementDEX Database: Fractures — The influence of genetic susceptibility and calcium plus vitamin D supplementation on fracture risk2017
In 5,823 WHI participants, genetic fracture risk scores did not significantly modify the null effect of 1000 mg calcium plus 400 IU vitamin D on fracture risk.
156.SupplementDEX Database: Fractures — Calcium plus vitamin D supplementation and height loss: findings from the Women's Health Initiative Calcium and Vitamin D clinical trial2016
Post hoc WHI analysis of 36,282 women found 1000 mg calcium plus 400 IU vitamin D did not slow height loss or reduce clinical height-loss risk over ~6 years.
157.SupplementDEX Database: Fractures — Calcium intake and hip fracture risk in men and women: a meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies and randomized controlled trials2007
A meta-analysis found no association between dietary calcium and hip fracture in women; calcium trials showed no nonvertebral fracture benefit but suggested higher hip fracture risk (RR 1.64).
158.SupplementDEX Database: Fractures — Calcium plus vitamin D supplementation and the risk of fractures2006
In WHI (36,282 women, 7 years), 1000 mg calcium plus 400 IU vitamin D raised hip BMD 1.06% but did not significantly reduce hip, spine, or total fractures; renal calculi increased.
159.SupplementDEX Database: Fractures — Fracture prevention with vitamin D supplementation: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials2005
A meta-analysis of vitamin D RCTs in older adults found high-dose vitamin D (700–800 IU/day) reduced hip and nonvertebral fractures; lower doses were ineffective.
160.SupplementDEX Database: Fractures — Meta-analyses of therapies for postmenopausal osteoporosis. VII. Meta-analysis of calcium supplementation for the prevention of postmenopausal osteoporosis2002
A meta-analysis of 15 postmenopausal calcium trials (1,806 women) found calcium slowed bone loss at spine, hip, forearm, and total body after ≥2 years vs usual intake.
161.SupplementDEX Database: Fractures — Meta-analyses of therapies for postmenopausal osteoporosis. VIII: Meta-analysis of the efficacy of vitamin D treatment in preventing osteoporosis in postmenopausal women2002
A meta-analysis of 25 vitamin D trials found hydroxylated vitamin D reduced vertebral fractures (RR 0.63) and standard vitamin D trended toward fewer nonvertebral fractures.
SupplementDEX Database · Low birth weight
1 reference162.SupplementDEX Database: Low birth weight — Calcium supplementation (other than for preventing or treating hypertension) for improving pregnancy and infant outcomes2015
A Cochrane systematic review of 23 randomized controlled trials (17,842 women) assessing calcium supplementation in pregnancy for outcomes other than hypertension or preeclampsia. The review found no significant reduction in preterm birth or low birth weight, though a small increase in mean birth weight (~56 g) was observed.
SupplementDEX Database · Obesity
20 references163.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Calcium supplementation for people with overweight or obesity2024
A Cochrane meta-analysis in overweight/obese adults found calcium supplementation did not produce clinically meaningful weight loss vs control.
164.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Calcium plus vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy reduces postpartum fat mass in adolescents: A randomized trial2023
In 56 Brazilian pregnant adolescents, 600 mg calcium plus 200 IU vitamin D through delivery reduced postpartum total and trunk fat mass vs placebo over 1 year.
165.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — The effect of increasing dairy calcium intake of adolescent girls on changes in body fat and weight2017
A 12-month RCT in 274 overweight teen girls found raising calcium to ≥1200 mg/day did not significantly reduce body fat gain vs staying at ≤600 mg/day.
166.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Effects of calcium supplementation on body weight: a meta-analysis2016
A meta-analysis of 33 trials (4,733 participants) found no overall weight change with calcium; modest reductions appeared only in children and elderly women subgroups.
167.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Calcium plus vitamin D3 supplementation facilitated fat loss in overweight and obese college students with very-low calcium consumption: a randomized controlled trial2013
In 53 overweight adults on a 500 kcal deficit for 12 weeks, 600 mg calcium plus 125 IU vitamin D increased fat loss vs diet alone in very-low-calcium consumers.
168.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Effects of calcium supplementation on body weight and adiposity in overweight and obese adults: a randomized trial2009
A 2-year RCT in 340 overweight adults found 1500 mg/day calcium carbonate did not reduce body weight, BMI, or fat mass vs placebo.
169.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Effects of calcium supplementation on lipids, blood pressure, and body composition in healthy older men: a randomized controlled trial2009
In 323 older men over 2 years, 600 or 1200 mg/day calcium did not improve HDL/LDL ratio, lipids, body composition, or blood pressure vs placebo.
170.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Calcium intake and 10-year weight change in middle-aged adults2006
In 10,591 middle-aged adults, women taking >500 mg/day calcium supplements gained ~1.8 kg less over 10 years than nonusers; dietary calcium alone showed no effect.
171.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Calcium and dairy intakes in relation to long-term weight gain in US men2006
In 23,504 men followed 12 years, baseline or changing calcium, dairy, or supplemental intake was not associated with weight change in multivariate analysis.
172.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — A systematic review of the effects of calcium supplementation on body weight2006
A meta-analysis of 13 RCTs concluded calcium supplementation has no statistically significant association with body-weight reduction in adults ≥18 years.
173.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Dairy augmentation of total and central fat loss in obese subjects2005
In obese adults on a 500 kcal deficit for 12 weeks, high-dairy calcium (1100 mg/day) increased fat and trunk fat loss and lowered BP vs low-calcium control.
174.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Effects of calcium and dairy on body composition and weight loss in African-American adults2005
In obese African American adults, 1200 mg/day dairy calcium improved body composition and BP during maintenance and roughly doubled weight/fat loss during caloric restriction.
175.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Effect of calcium and dairy foods in high protein, energy-restricted diets on weight loss and metabolic parameters in overweight adults2005
In 50 adults on high-protein energy-restricted diets, raising calcium from 500 to 2400 mg/day did not increase weight or fat loss over 12 weeks.
176.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Effect of energy-reduced diets high in dairy products and fiber on weight loss in obese adults2005
In 72 obese adults over 48 weeks, 1400 vs 800 mg/day calcium, with or without added fiber/low-GI foods, produced similar ~10–12 kg weight and fat loss.
177.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Calcium and dairy acceleration of weight and fat loss during energy restriction in obese adults2004
In obese adults on a 500 kcal deficit for 24 weeks, high-calcium and high-dairy diets increased weight loss 26–70% and fat loss 38–64% vs 400–500 mg/day calcium.
178.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Effect of calcium supplementation on weight and fat loss in women2004
Pooling three 25-week trials in 100 women on moderate diets found 1000 mg/day calcium did not increase weight or fat loss vs placebo.
179.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Calcium intake, body composition, and lipoprotein-lipid concentrations in adults2003
Cross-sectional data in 470 adults found higher calcium intake associated with lower LDL and better lipids in women and lower adiposity in lowest-intake women.
180.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Dietary calcium intake in lactose maldigesting intolerant and tolerant African-American women2002
Lactose-intolerant African American women consumed half the calcium of tolerant peers (388 vs 763 mg/day) and had higher BMI despite similar maldigestion rates.
181.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Biobehavioral factors are associated with obesity in Puerto Rican children2000
A case-control study of 53 Puerto Rican children found lower dairy intake, more TV viewing, and higher maternal BMI associated with obesity risk.
182.SupplementDEX Database: Obesity — Calcium intake and body weight2000
Reanalysis of five calcium bone-health studies in 780 women found higher calcium intake associated with lower BMI and weight; calcium-treated women lost more weight over ~4 years.
SupplementDEX Database · Cardiovascular disease
7 references183.SupplementDEX Database: Cardiovascular disease — Association of Vitamin D or Calcium Supplementation with Cardiovascular Outcomes and Mortality: A Meta-Analysis with Trial Sequential Analysis2021
A meta-analysis of 23 trials (89,251 adults) found vitamin D and/or calcium supplementation did not meaningfully affect all-cause mortality, cardiovascular mortality, MI, or composite MACE.
184.SupplementDEX Database: Cardiovascular disease — Calcium Supplements and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials2021
A meta-analysis of 13 RCTs found calcium supplements raised CVD risk (RR 1.15) and CHD risk (RR 1.16), particularly in healthy postmenopausal women receiving supplements vs placebo.
185.SupplementDEX Database: Cardiovascular disease — Calcium Intake and Cardiovascular Disease Risk: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-analysis2016
An updated systematic review found RCTs showed no significant CVD differences with calcium or calcium plus vitamin D vs placebo; observational cohorts also lacked consistent dose-response patterns.
186.SupplementDEX Database: Cardiovascular disease — Effect of calcium or vitamin D supplementation on vascular outcomes: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials2013
A meta-analysis of 11 RCTs (50,252 adults) found calcium or vitamin D did not affect major cardiovascular events, MI, or stroke vs placebo; subgroup data suggested calcium alone may increase MI.
187.SupplementDEX Database: Cardiovascular disease — Associations of dietary calcium intake and calcium supplementation with myocardial infarction and stroke risk and overall cardiovascular mortality in the Heidelberg cohort of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition study (EPIC-Heidelberg)2012
In 23,980 EPIC-Heidelberg adults followed 11 years, moderate dietary/dairy calcium lowered MI risk but calcium supplements were associated with higher MI risk vs non-users.
188.SupplementDEX Database: Cardiovascular disease — Caffeine modulates tau phosphorylation and affects Akt signaling in postmitotic neurons2011
Laboratory work in neuroblastoma and postmitotic neurons showed caffeine blocked cell-cycle entry and altered tau phosphorylation via reduced Akt signaling, suggesting a mechanism for neuroprotection.
189.SupplementDEX Database: Cardiovascular disease — Systematic review: Vitamin D and calcium supplementation in prevention of cardiovascular events2010
A systematic review of 17 studies found dialysis patients on vitamin D had lower CVD mortality, but RCT secondary analyses showed only a nonsignificant trend toward reduced CVD with supplementation.
190.SupplementDEX Database: Myocardial infarction — Effect of calcium supplements on risk of myocardial infarction and cardiovascular events: meta-analysis2010
A patient-level meta-analysis of 5 calcium RCTs (8,151 adults) found calcium supplements associated with 31% higher MI risk (HR 1.31); no increase in stroke or all-cause mortality.
SupplementDEX Database · Pancreatic cancer
1 reference191.SupplementDEX Database: Pancreatic cancer — Calcium Intake and the Pancreatic Cancer Risk: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies2024
A meta-analysis of 8 observational studies found higher total calcium intake associated with 17% lower pancreatic cancer risk; dietary calcium alone was not significant.
SupplementDEX Database · Prostate cancer
1 reference192.SupplementDEX Database: Prostate cancer — Calcium intake and risk of prostate cancer: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of prospective cohort studies2025
A meta-analysis of 21 cohorts found high total, dietary, and dairy calcium intake associated with modestly higher prostate cancer risk; supplemental calcium was not significant.