Recent articles in both the American Journal of Public Health and Consumer Report have revealed that many calcium supplement products sold contain sufficient lead to cause a health concern.

Typically, those taking calcium supplements are individuals with mild intolerance, and pregnant or breast feeding women. These groups, especially children and pregnant women, may be increasing their exposure to lead unnecessarily.

In studies at Trent University (Peterborough, Ontario), researchers found that 25% of the 70 brands of calcium supplements sold exceed the US Food and Drug Administration tolerable daily intake for lead ingested from all dietary sources.

Studies have found that calcium supplements using bonemeal, dolomite, or natural sources such as limestone have potentially high levels of lead. Check the manufacturer's label and use only calcium supplements from refined or chelated calcium, such as calcium carbonate.

One other caution - check the label on any food supplements you use, some food supplements use bonemeal powders as well!