Brenda Khan
Hypercalcemia is a condition that occurs when there is an abnormally high amount of calcium in the blood. Calcium is a vital mineral that supports bone and teeth health, heart function, and muscle contraction. However, when calcium levels in the blood exceed the normal range, it can lead to hypercalcemia, which may be mild or severe and temporary or chronic. The condition can be caused by various factors, including primary hyperparathyroidism, certain cancers, and prolonged bed rest. Treatment options include surgery, medication, and dietary modifications. Therefore, it is important to understand the dietary recommendations for managing hypercalcemia.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Abnormally high amount of calcium in the blood |
| Causes | Overactive parathyroid glands, unhealthy bones, long-term bed rest, certain types of cancer, kidney stones, parathyroid conditions, vitamin D supplements, primary hyperparathyroidism |
| Symptoms | Unusual symptoms, excessive thirst, frequent urination |
| Diagnosis | Blood tests, electrocardiogram (EKG), chest X-ray |
| Treatment | Intravenous fluids, medications (e.g. calcitonin, bisphosphonates), surgery, exercise, limiting calcium intake, avoiding calcium-based antacids |
| Prevention | Avoid excess calcium and vitamin D intake, consult a healthcare provider before taking supplements |
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What You'll Learn
Avoid calcium supplements, vitamins, and minerals without a doctor's consultation
Hypercalcemia is a condition characterised by high levels of calcium in the blood. Calcium is a mineral that helps with bone and teeth growth, heart rhythm regulation, and muscle contraction. The condition is often a result of other problems, such as overactive glands, unhealthy bones, long-term bed rest, or certain types of tumours or cancers.
To manage hypercalcemia, it is recommended to follow a low-calcium diet and cut back on foods that are high in calcium. This includes dairy products with added calcium. It is also important to avoid taking antacid medicines that contain calcium and limit vitamin D supplements or multivitamin/mineral supplements with calcium unless prescribed by a doctor.
When it comes to calcium supplements, vitamins, and minerals, it is important to consult a doctor before taking them, especially if you have hypercalcemia. This is because, while calcium is essential for bone health, taking supplements can have different effects on different people. For example, a 2016 study suggested that calcium supplements may increase the risk of calcium buildup in the heart's arteries, which could potentially lead to heart attacks or heart disease.
The body can only process a limited amount of calcium at a time, and if you take a supplement with more than that, the excess calcium has to go somewhere else in the body. This could potentially increase the risk of blood clots or contribute to the narrowing of blood vessels. Additionally, recent studies have linked calcium supplements to an increased risk of colon polyps, which are small growths in the large intestine that can become cancerous.
While calcium supplements may be convenient, it is always best to prioritise getting calcium through your diet, as this allows you to absorb the nutrient more effectively. By consulting a doctor, you can determine whether you truly need supplements and, if so, what dosage is safe for you.
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Limit or stop consuming calcium-based antacids
If you have hypercalcaemia, or too much calcium in your blood, it is important to limit or stop consuming calcium-based antacids. Antacids are a group of drugs that have been on the market for many years and are now typically available over the counter without a prescription. They are used to treat mild gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with associated heartburn, indigestion, and an upset stomach caused by too much stomach acid.
Many antacids contain calcium, such as Tums, Alka-Seltzer, and Rolaids. Calcium salts neutralize gastric acidity, increase the pH in the duodenal bulb, and inhibit pepsin's proteolytic activity. However, if you take too much or for longer than directed, you could get a calcium overdose. Excess calcium can lead to alkalosis, a condition where your body doesn't produce enough acid to function properly.
If you have hypercalcaemia, it is important to manage your calcium levels and limit your intake of calcium-rich foods. This may include cutting back on dairy products with added calcium and taking only the medicines and supplements recommended by your healthcare provider.
It is important to note that antacids can interfere with the function of other drugs, so always check with your doctor or pharmacist before using them, especially if you are taking other medications.
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Drink more fluids to help flush out calcium
Hypercalcemia is a condition characterised by high levels of calcium in the blood. It can lead to serious complications, including issues with bones, the kidneys, the brain, and the heart. It is often the result of other problems, such as overactive glands, unhealthy bones, long-term bed rest, and certain types of tumours or cancers.
Drinking more fluids is one way to help manage hypercalcemia. Fluids can help flush out calcium and prevent it from building up in the body. It is recommended to drink at least 2 to 2.5 litres of fluids per day, and up to 3 quarts (3 litres) to 1 gallon (4 litres) of fluid for those with hypercalcemia. This can help to reduce the risk of calcium oxalate kidney stones, which are a common complication of high calcium levels. It is important to follow the advice of your healthcare provider regarding fluid intake, as they may recommend a different amount depending on your specific condition and needs.
To ensure adequate fluid intake, it is suggested to place a full gallon of water in the refrigerator each morning and consume it throughout the day. Checking the colour of your urine is another way to determine if you are adequately hydrated; it should be light yellow to clear. If it is dark yellow, it is an indication that you need to increase your fluid intake. It is also important not to wait until you are thirsty to drink, as thirst is a sign of dehydration.
In addition to increasing fluid intake, it is important to limit or stop the intake of calcium-rich foods, antacids, and supplements that contain calcium. Calcium-rich foods include dairy products with added calcium. It is also recommended to get regular exercise and stay active, as this can help manage hypercalcemia.
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Avoid dairy products with added calcium
Hypercalcemia is a condition where there is an elevated level of calcium in the blood. It is often the result of other problems, including overactive glands, unhealthy bones, long-term bed rest, and certain types of tumours or cancers. Treatment for hypercalcemia involves receiving fluids through an intravenous (IV) line and medications to lower calcium levels in the blood.
To manage hypercalcemia, it is essential to follow a low-calcium diet and cut back on foods high in calcium. This includes being mindful of dairy products with added calcium. Dairy products are a significant source of calcium in many diets, and while they offer several health benefits, they can contribute to hypercalcemia if consumed in excess.
Dairy products that are particularly high in calcium include milk, cheese, and yogurt. For instance, a cup of milk provides 24-25% of the recommended daily value (DV) for calcium. Hard, aged cheeses are naturally low in lactose and easier to digest, but they can be high in sodium, which may need to be limited by some individuals. Additionally, full-fat cheese can contain high amounts of saturated fat and calories.
When purchasing dairy products, it is important to read the labels carefully to make an informed choice. For those who are vegan, lactose intolerant, or choose to avoid dairy, there are several non-dairy alternatives available that provide adequate calcium. These include calcium-fortified juices, soy milk, and plant-based "milks" like almond, rice, coconut, oat, and hemp milk. However, it is worth noting that not all plant-based "milks" are created equal in terms of nutrition, and their calcium content may vary.
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Exercise and stay active to manage hypercalcemia
Exercise and staying active are important for managing hypercalcemia, a condition where there are higher-than-normal levels of calcium in the blood. This condition can be caused by various factors, including primary hyperparathyroidism, certain cancers, and dehydration.
Consult a Healthcare Professional
Before starting any exercise routine, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider, especially if you have an underlying condition such as cancer or primary hyperparathyroidism. They can advise you on the types and intensity of exercises suitable for your specific condition and overall health status.
Maintain Hydration
Staying adequately hydrated is essential for managing hypercalcemia. When you exercise, you lose calcium through sweat, so drinking enough water helps prevent further elevation of calcium levels.
Dietary Considerations
Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial in managing hypercalcemia. Before exercising, consider eating a starchy, low-fat meal 2-3 hours beforehand to provide sustained energy. About an hour before your workout, consume a calcium-rich snack or supplement to ensure your body has the fuel it needs. Good snack options after your workout include bananas, nuts, or a glass of low-fat milk, which will aid in your recovery.
Exercise Intensity and Type
The type and intensity of exercise can impact calcium levels. Prolonged low-intensity exercises, such as steady-state work, have been shown to raise serum parathyroid hormone levels without affecting calcium concentrations. On the other hand, short-term, high-intensity exercises can lead to increased calcium levels in the blood. Therefore, it is important to monitor your calcium levels and adjust your exercise routine accordingly.
Additionally, certain exercises can help manage specific symptoms associated with hypercalcemia. For example, if you experience muscle cramps or tingling due to low calcium levels, gentle stretching or yoga may help alleviate these symptoms.
In summary, managing hypercalcemia involves a combination of medical interventions, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle modifications. By staying active and exercising appropriately, you can improve your overall health and manage your calcium levels effectively. Remember to always seek personalized advice from your healthcare team to ensure your safety and well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
Hypercalcemia is a condition where a person has abnormally high calcium levels in their blood.
Hypercalcemia is usually caused by primary hyperparathyroidism or certain cancers. It can also be caused by being bedridden or immobilized for a long time.
Mild hypercalcemia may not produce any symptoms. More serious hypercalcemia can cause excessive thirst and frequent urination.
Hypercalcemia can be treated with surgery, medication, intravenous fluids, or steroids.
A low-calcium diet may help manage hypercalcemia. Avoid calcium-based antacid tablets, and do not take vitamin D supplements or multivitamins/mineral supplements that contain calcium without consulting your healthcare provider.
