Private MD News

Popular supplements may represent kidney risk factors

Category: Kidney Diseases

Using calcium and vitamin D supplements may lead to blood tests that indicate kidney risk factors, according to a new study presented recently at the 94th Annual Meeting of the Endocrine Society.

After administering supplements containing varying amounts of calcium and vitamin D to a group of 163 postmenopausal women, the researchers found that participants who received the greatest amounts of the nutrients were the most likely to have high levels of calcium in their blood and urine.

These are typically taken as risk factors for the development of kidney stones. The researchers said the findings indicate that calcium and vitamin D supplements may not be as safe as previously assumed.

The findings are particularly important as many studies continue to highlight new benefits associated with vitamin D. This has prompted some experts to say that the recommended daily allowance for this nutrient should be increased. However, doing so would not be without its risks.

Any patient who is using calcium and vitamin D supplements should have their blood and urine calcium levels monitored, the researchers said.