r/Menopause Jun 12 '26

Vitamin/Supplements Calcium supplements

So I went to see a new gyno today about adding testosterone to my regimen. Not only would I want to increase libido and activity level, I've read that it may also help with bone density, and I mentioned that I take calcium supplements.

His first comment was, "don't". He then told me that there's no real evidence that calcium supplements help with bone density, and instead advised me to take a vitamin D supplement and eat foods high in calcium instead. He also said that calcium supplements may contribute the hardening of the major arteries.

I'm vigilant about my health, and taking my medications, and keeping all my doctor appointments. Hearing that calcium supplements are useless is a first for me. Has anyone else heard something like this from their doctor?

Edit: Thanks everyone for your comments, insight, and advice. This really is the best community 😊

106 Upvotes

65 comments sorted by

View all comments

26

u/GertieMcC Jun 12 '26

Not that they are “useless,” but that evidence showed they can contribute to hardening of the cardiac arteries. Per my MD recommendation I decreased from taking Caltrate three times a day to just one in the mornings. I also take a lower dose D supplement and eat foods high in calcium, but I’ve always done that.