An analysis of data from the massive Women's Health Initiative linked calcium supplements to a 31 percent increased risk of heart attacks. And a study from Swedish researchers shows that only intakes below 750 mg of calcium a day put a person at increased risk for fractures — while intakes above 1,100 mg might increase risk.

In other words, supplementing your diet with high doses of calcium may do you more harm than good!

Your best strategy is to regularly eat calcium-rich foods like leafy greens, fatty fish with bones (such as sardines and salmon), and dairy products.

Keep supplementation of calcium (including antacids) to a minimum — no more than 500 to 600 mg daily.

If you’re taking a calcium supplement, be sure it also contains magnesium and vitamin D.