Calcium for Cancer: does it Help and Why?

Why Calcium might help reduce Cancer:

Calcium may act to reduce cell proliferation or cause proliferating cells to undergo differentiation, which leads to a reduction in cell proliferation. Calcium may also improve cells signaling and force cancer cells to differentiate or die.

For cancer patients pursuing chemo, calcium can help prevent the weakening of bones that can occur with certain chemotherapy medications.

How Calcium works for Cancer:

Calcium is believed to proliferate into the cell with the help of binding receptors to control proliferation, differentiation, function, and even death. However, it is not completely understood yet how calcium regulates cell proliferation.

Some research demonstrates that the activation of tyrosine kinase receptors (RTKs) leads the nucleus to generate localized nuclear signaling which are believed to modulate cell proliferation 

Calcium dose for Cancer:

Studies on more than 120,000 men and women have shown that those who had the highest intakes of calcium through both their diet and supplement, had a modestly reduced risk of colorectal cancer compared with those who had the lowest calcium intakes.

However, calcium from the diet by itself, has shown no reduction in colorectal cancer risk was found.

The beneficial doses of calcium are suggested to be at a maximum of 1200 mg per day. Beyond this quantity, it has been observed that benefits start to level off and reach a plateau. 

Calcium for Cancer: precautions

Calcium is likely to be safe when taken by the mouth in recommended doses. However, you should avoid taking more than 1000-1200 mg of calcium from supplements daily unless prescribed by your doctor.

If you are taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, antibiotics, and diuretics, it's important to talk to your doctor before taking calcium because calcium supplements can interact with these medications.

Always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplement or starting any new diet or treatment.

Calcium for Cancer: side effects

Giving calcium supplements might cause some side effects that include:

- Constipation: Calcium can cause constipation by slowing down the movement of food through the intestines.

- Stomach upset: Calcium supplements can cause stomach upset, such as gas, bloating, and nausea.

- Kidney stones: In some people, high calcium intake from supplements may increase the risk of kidney stones.

- Risk for heart attack: Some studies suggest that high calcium intake from supplements may increase the risk of heart attack, particularly in men.

- Allergic reactions: Some people may be allergic to calcium supplements, which can cause symptoms such as itching, hives, and difficulty breathing.

It's important to note that most of these side effects are associated with high doses of calcium supplement and can be avoided by following the recommended dosage. It's also important to talk with your doctor before starting any calcium supplement, especially if you have a history of kidney stones or other health conditions.