In Health Watch:A warning for women and men who take calcium supplements:A new study finds they can be bad for the heart.Manuel G allegus reports.Millions of Americans like 68 year old Ann Miller take calcium supplements for healthy bones.Ann Miller says, 'I'm trying just to manage it so the bone density results are stable.'But new findings in the British Medical Journal show the calcium supplements that many take for osteoperosis or bone loss can lead to a 30 percent increased-risk for heart attack.Dr. Sharonne Hayes says, "These are two very common illnesses that a lot of people have and so thiscorrelation of heart disease and treatment for osteoporosis affects a lot of individuals."The latest findings are based on the results of eleven clinical trialsInvolving 12-thousand mostly elderly women.Many of them taking extra calcium to prevent bone loss.This new research looked only at people taking calcium supplements.Previous studies show that people getting calcium through food didn't have the same risks.Doctors say it's time to take a closer look at just how beneficial extra calcium can be.Dr. Hayes says, "I think that the days of recommending calcium supplements to every patient with osteoporosis are probably over because there is actually a fairly modest benefit of calcium supplements on fracture rate."Ann Miller plans to consult with her doctor.Ann says, "I will definitely look into it."Because for many women like her, more calcium may do more harm than good.








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