Traumatic Brain Injury: Does Calcium Cause Brain Damage?

Research suggests that the calcium in diary products may cause brain damage. Calcium can narrow blood vessels in the brain, which leads to dementia in the elderly. Additionally, vitamin D, which also is found in dairy products, may exacerbate the problem. The study discovered that those who were between the ages of 60 and 86 who ate the most calcium and vitamin D had more damaged tissue in their brains.

Calcium "Causes Brain Damage"

The age and blood pressure of the subjects involved in the study did not affect test results. While damaged tissue usually is found in the brains of old people, too much damage increases the risk of stroke and dementia. Researchers say that the lesions could be caused when bone-like calcium deposits clog blood vessels; this makes it more difficult for blood to reach the brain. Researcher Dr. Martha Payne, from Duke University, said that "a growing number of researchers are concerned about the effects of too much calcium, given the emphasis on promoting high intakes."