April 14, 2003

Multiple Studies Begin to Show New Byproduct of Increased Calcium in Diet – Weight Loss

Observing a diet that has an elevated amount of calcium and other trace minerals has been shown to lower blood pressure, prevent low bone density and osteoporosis, may help reduce PMS symptoms and the risk of heart disease, arthritis, diabetes, high cholesterol, and some doctors believe it can help cut the risk of colon cancer.  Now, multiple studies are showing a new byproduct of increased calcium in the diet – weight loss.

However, "It doesn't mean that just eating more dairy can help you lose weight," says Novotny, professor and chair of the department of human nutrition, food and animal sciences at theUniversity of Hawaii at Manoa.

"Calories are still the bottom line," Novotny tells WebMD. "Does the composition of calories matter? Yes, having more of them come from calcium-rich foods is associated with lower weight and lower body fat."  [Potironne Note:  This theme is repeated throughout.  Dairy is not the best source of calcium if you are seeking to increase your calcium intake to enjoy the added effect of weight loss.  It is best to seek calcium from low calorie, natural sources that also provide other nutritional benefits like protein and trace minerals…see our nutritional analysis.]

"This is one potentially trendy diet that's healthy. You can control fat and get strong bones at same time. I don't know of any other diets can make that claim," says Zanecosky. "You can't lose anything but pounds." 

"Calcium Diet", WebMd, 04/14/03, Reviewed By Michael Smith, MD, By Jennifer Warner