Calcium, Cholesterol/Lipids, Elderly, High Blood Pressure

Effects of calcium in healthy older men

BrokenLeg1Researchers from the University of Auckland, in New Zealand searched for the effects of exercise on cholesterol, blood pressure, and body weight.

First, the details.

  • 323 healthy men were randomly assigned to take placebo, 600 mg calcium per day, or 1200 mg calcium per day for 2 years.

And, the results.

  • There was no significant effect of calcium treatment on triglycerides; total, LDL (bad), or HDL (good) cholesterol; or the ratio of HDL to LDL cholesterol.
  • There were also no significant changes in weight, fat mass, and lean mass.
  • There were no significant effects on blood pressure.
  • There were no effects on weight or body composition.

The bottom line?

OK, but these are not the primary reasons for taking calcium supplements among older men — maintenance of bone tissue.

12/1/09 21:03 JR