Calcium deposits can form in different parts of the body, including the arteries, joints, and skin. Eating foods high in potassium, like bananas and avocados, may help reduce calcium buildup in ... Calcinosis cutis, the formation of calcium deposits on the skin, most often happens as a response to injury.

Understanding the Context

(Photo Credit: Biophoto Associates/Science Source) You may have calcinosis cutis if you ... Calcium is a mineral that is important for strong bones and a healthy body throughout your life. A healthy diet is the best way to get the calcium you need. But calcium supplements may be an option if you don't get enough from your diet.

Key Insights

Calcium acetate is used to treat hyperphosphatemia (too much phosphate in the blood) in patients with end stage kidney disease who are on dialysis. Calcium acetate works by binding with the phosphate in the food you eat, so that it is eliminated from the body without being absorbed. For people who take calcium supplements and multivitamins, it's best to take them at different times of day. Calcium can affect how the body takes in the nutrients iron, zinc and magnesium. And don't take a calcium supplement at the same time as a meal that's high in iron.

Final Thoughts

Calcium supplements are usually taken to treat or prevent bone disease, such as osteoporosis. There is some evidence that calcium supplements can increase the risk of heart attack. Calcium channel blockers are medicines used to lower blood pressure. They stop calcium from entering the cells of the heart and arteries. Calcium makes the heart and arteries squeeze more strongly. By blocking calcium, calcium channel blockers allow blood vessels to relax and open.

Some calcium channel blockers also can slow the heart rate. It is best to get calcium from your food rather than a pill. Dairy products, certain green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, or kale, and calcium fortified fruit juices and soy beverages contain good amounts of calcium.