A study published in BMC Public Health This year it has been shown that eating calcium-rich foods at breakfast instead of other meals can reduce the risk of heart attack.
According to Dr. RR Dutta, HOD of Internal Medicine of Paras Hospital. Gurugram, “Emphasis is laid on distributing the amount of dietary calcium across breakfast and dinner as timing plays a vital role in its absorption and utilization by the body. Calcium absorption is affected by other dietary components and the body's circadian rhythm. Consuming calcium-rich foods at breakfast and dinner ensures optimal absorption and utilization throughout the day and night, providing bone support Health and potentially reducing cardiovascular risks.,
Relationship between calcium intake and cardiovascular risk?
According to Dr. Dutta, the relationship between dietary calcium intake and cardiovascular risk is multifaceted.
Adequate calcium intake is essential for maintaining healthy blood pressure levels, as calcium plays a role in vascular function and smooth muscle contraction.
Additionally, calcium may help regulate cholesterol metabolism. Reduce arterial plaque build-up, thus reducing cardiovascular risk Incidents like heart attack and stroke,” said Dr Dutta.
Should you adjust your dietary habits based on these findings?
Dr. Dutta recommends including calcium-rich foods such as dairy products, leafy vegetables and hearty foods at both breakfast and dinner.
However, he advised that it is important to ensure overall dietary balance and avoid excessive calcium intake, which can lead to adverse effects such as kidney stones or cardiovascular calcification.
Important Considerations When Adjusting Calcium Intake
Dr. Dutta suggests, “Potential drawbacks or considerations include Need for personalized diet plans based on factors Such as age, gender, health status and medication use. Additionally, calcium absorption may be affected by factors such as vitamin D levels, drug interactions, and gastrointestinal health.
He further added that it is advisable to consult a health care professional or registered dietitian before making significant changes in dietary calcium intake. Additionally, focusing only on calcium intake may underestimate the importance of overall dietary patterns and lifestyle factors in cardiovascular health.
While it is important to include calcium-rich foods in the daily diet, it is equally essential to maintain a balanced diet and consider individual factors such as age, health condition and medication use. By consulting health care professionals and adopting holistic lifestyle changes, individuals can take active steps toward enhancing cardiovascular health and enjoying a vibrant, heart-healthy life.