Surprising Source for Heart Attack Risk

Osteoporosis can be a debilitating medical condition, particularly when it is severe and leads to broken bones, such as hip fractures. When a person experiences a serious fracture, they may become unable to work. Long-term disability benefits may be necessary in situations where a person is out of work for an extended period of time.

Many Americans opt for calcium supplements to combat osteoporosis and the associated bone loss. Unfortunately, recent studies indicate that calcium supplements used to prevent osteoporosis may increase the risk of heart attack by as much as 30%.

Researchers are strongly advising patients to speak with their doctors about taking calcium supplements. They also suggest that there are other ways to help prevent osteoporosis such as:

• exercise;
• maintaining a healthy weight;
• not smoking; and
• eating calcium-rich foods.

Researchers found that because higher levels of calcium can form plaque in blood vessels there is also the risk of stroke and other types of cardiovascular diseases.

The findings of this study were reached after tracking 12,000 older adults over a period of 4 years. They gave calcium supplements to half of the people and a placebo to the other half. Those who took the calcium supplements were found to have the 30% increased risk of a heart attack.

If you suffer from a severe disability that prevents you from working, you may qualify for long-term disability benefits. Contact a long-term disability attorney from the Law Offices of LaVan & Neidenberg, P.A. 1-888-234-5758.