There is no question that everyone needs calcium. Calcium is the main component of bone, and it is critical for proper function of the heart, muscles, and nerves, and for blood clotting. But men should beware: the American Cancer Society notes there is evidence that high intake of calcium, mainly through supplements, has been associated with a greater risk of prostate cancer, especially aggressive cancer. Several prestigious studies back up this concern, including one in which researchers found a nearly threefold increased risk for developing fatal prostate cancer in men who had high-normal levels of serum calcium compared with men who had lower average calcium levels. (Skinner 2008) More recent research results come from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study, which is currently underway and involves more than 519,000 participants. Early reports are that a high intake of dairy protein and calcium from dairy products is associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer. (Gonzalez 2010) Men should make sure they get enough calcium, 1,200 mg daily, but mainly from food and not supplements. More on calcium and men’s health
See also
Top Supplements for Prostatitis
Top Supplements for Prostate Cancer
Top Supplements for Erectile Dysfunction
Top Supplements for ED and Sexual Health
Top Supplements for Men’s Health
Reference
Gonzalez CA, Riboli E. Diet and cancer prevention: contributions from the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study. Eur J Cancer 2010 Sep; 46(14): 2555-62
Skinner HG, Schwartz GG. Serum calcium and incident and fatal prostate cancer in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2008 Sep; 17(9): 2302-5
