An Update on Calcium Health Claims
On October 12th, the FDA stated that there is some evidence for qualified health claims for calcium and hypertension, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and preeclampsia. Health claims are specific statements that describe a relationship between a food, food component, or dietary supplement ingredient and their ability to reduce the risk of a disease or health-related condition. "Qualified health claims" provide the FDA with the ability to add a disclaimer to a potential health claim if it feels the evidence does not meet the standard of "significant scientific agreement." The qualified health clams are:
- Some scientific evidence suggests that calcium supplements may reduce the risk of hypertension. However, FDA has determined that the evidence is inconsistent and not conclusive.
- Four studies, including a large clinical trial, do not show that calcium supplements reduce the risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension during pregnancy. However, three other studies suggest that calcium supplements may reduce the risk. Based on these studies, FDA concludes that it is highly unlikely that calcium supplements reduce the risk of pregnancy-induced hypertension.
- Three studies, including a large clinical trial, do not show that calcium supplements reduce the risk of preeclampsia during pregnancy. However, two other studies suggest that calcium supplements may reduce the risk. Based on these studies, FDA concludes that it is highly unlikely that calcium supplements reduce the risk of preeclampsia.
For educational purposes only. Consult your physician for any health problems.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
|
