A new study from New Zealand is having doctors reexamine the necessity of calcium supplements for post menopausal women. Many of us have been chewing these supplements like candy in an effort to keep osteoporosis at bay, all the while gambling with the health of our hearts and thus our lives without even knowing it.

The study isn’t finished yet, but scientists have been able to show that there seems to be an increased risk of heart attacks and other heart issues with patients who were taking calcium supplements regularly. The reason why the extra calcium may be weakening the heart isn’t known yet and I’m sure there will be larger follow up studies to confirm these first findings.

In the meantime it may be a good idea to visit your doctor to discuss these concerns with him if you are currently on a calcium supplement. It may be time to reevaluate whether or not your body and your bones really need them.