The calcium supplements that many older women take to boost their bone health may increase their risk for heart disease, a study shows.

“Calcium supplements, with or without vitamin D, mostly increase the risk of cardiovascular events, especially [heart attack],” concludes study researcher Ian Reid, MD, a professor of medicine and endocrinology at the University of Auckland in New Zealand. “A reassessment of the role of calcium supplements in osteoporosis management is warranted.”

The study is published in the journal BMJ.

via Calcium Supplements May Increase Heart Risk.