New research suggests that calcium intake may significantly reduce the risk of congestive heart failure (CHF) across all adult age groups. The comprehensive study, published in BMC Cardiovascular Disorders, analyzed data from 3,083 Americans aged 30 and older and found that adequate calcium consumption was associated with a lower risk of this heart condition.
Researchers from Macau University of Science and Technology examined National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey data collected between 2003 and 2018. The cross-sectional study compared 136 participants with CHF to 2,947 healthy controls, focusing on dietary calcium intake assessed by having participants recall all foods consumed in the previous 24 hours.
The findings revealed that participants with CHF consumed significantly less calcium than those without the condition. The study authors concluded that “calcium intake serves as a protective factor against CHF, potentially lowering its risk.” This protective relationship remained strong even after researchers accounted for other factors including age, race, gender, education level, body mass index, smoking status, alcohol consumption, high blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
Using advanced statistical modeling called LASSO regression, researchers identified calcium intake as one of seven most reliable variables for predicting congestive heart failure risk. The predictive model showed good discrimination, and the authors noted their results “provide theoretical support for the prevention and diagnosis of CHF.”
CHF occurs when the heart cannot pump sufficient blood to meet the body’s demands, resulting in fluid accumulation in the lungs or peripheral tissues. The condition affects millions worldwide and poses a substantial burden on healthcare systems.
The study authors suggest that optimizing calcium consumption could play a protective role in reducing CHF risk, though they acknowledge that future longitudinal studies are needed to confirm these protective effects and establish clearer dietary recommendations.