In the past, many studies have pointed that although calcium is a helpful and necessary dietary supplement, one of the side effects of elevated calcium levels is the higher likelihood of having a stroke. Because of this, researchers have begun looking at whether the benefits of calcium are greater than the risk of having a stroke.
Calcium is well known for strengthening bones. In seniors at risk of osteoporosis, weak bones can lead to increased fracture rates. If someone breaks a hip, they may find themselves permanently disabled. Many of these elderly folks find themselves spending the rest of their lives in a nursing home thanks to their dependence on a wheelchair and the assistance of others. Supplements have been shown to decrease the amount of fractures that occur. However, the increased usage of calcium and Vitamin D as supplements to normal diet has been associated with an increased risk of stroke and other heart diseases.
Researchers in Norway, where there is a higher rate of hip fractures than anywhere else in the world, have concluded that the benefits of these supplements does not outweigh the risk that is created. Based upon data, they found that out of 100,000 women taking calcium and other supplements, about 5,890 hip fractures were avoided, along with 3,820 other fractures. However, 5,917 heart attacks and 4,373 strokes may have been caused. Fractures and the pain that they create are definitely not good things, but heart attacks and strokes are often far more severe and deadly in nature, and the balance, at least according to this team’s findings, is not worth the risk.
No matter what you decide to do when it comes to your own family and supplements, be sure that you consult with a doctor first. One study’s findings does not mean that this is the best decision for everyone, so you need to take your own situation into account. Speak with a physician that is knowledgeable of your mom or dad’s medical background, and be sure that everyone is on the same page as far as treatments and preventative measures go. This will ensure a team effort when it comes to seniors and their care, and make for a better overall approach to health.
When a loved one has a stroke, the impact can be devastating. Strokes can lead to lifelong physical and mental disability. It can take an otherwise healthy loved one, and force them to need assistance for the rest of their life. Senior care is often a necessity after a stroke, oftentimes for the rest of the victim’s life. Obviously you want to help a loved one prevent a stroke at all costs, but other health factors need to be looked at too, hence the need for this study. If you have a loved one that has suffered a stroke, arrangements like in-home care need to be made so that they stay safe and cared for in their own home, but prevention is still the best policy.
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