A variety of calcium supplements contain too much lead. That's the conclusion of an article published in JAMA, the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Researchers tested 22 different brands of calcium, the kind you pick up at the drug store or health food store to help prevent soft bones and other problems.
A third contained dangerous lead levels.
Supplements from a number of sources, even oyster shells, and a number of different manufacturers contained lead.
Lead levels from a single brand varied from lot to lot, so there was no guaranteed safe choice.
Fortunately, you have to eat a large number of calcium tablets over a number of years ... but it could happen, especially if you have lead exposure from other sources, like paint or lead-lined drinking fountains.
So, talk to your doctor to be sure you really need calcium and that its benefits outweigh its risks.
Calcium supplements clearly need better testing, and better labeling.
