Ask the Nurse

I am 67 years old. For quite a few years, I have been told to take around 1200 mg of calcium per day, plus magnesium and vitamin D. Many friends are now telling me that their doctors have told them it can be dangerous to take calcium supplements and it’s better just to get it from your diet. I’ve also read that calcium tablets can be a factor in developing dementia. What is the current recommendation?


It is important to take a separate vitamin D3 daily and assure your vitamin D level is normal. Talk to your physician about checking your 25-OH vitamin D level.

Most, if not all of your calcium should be obtained in your diet in divided doses. If you cannot obtain 100mg to 1200mg of calcium in your diet, then you may need a supplement.

If you are lactose intolerant and/or avoid all dairy, then you may need a supplement. If you are on stomach acid blockers, then calcium CITRATE is absorbed without stomach acid.

All my best,
Speaking of Women’s Health Nurse

October 3, 2016 at 10:53am