A new, long-term study finds that people who take calcium supplements increase their risk of heart attack.  And, the study's conclusions include a warning about supplements' roles in managing osteoporosis.

The study, done by researchers based in New Zealand, tracked 24,000 peopel ages 35 to 64 for 11 years, and concluded that people with a moderate amount of calcium daily actually lowered heart attack risk, but that people who took supplements regularly were 86% more likely to have a heart attack.

Our medical researcher, SUNY Upstate Psychologist Rich O'Neill, says the research indicates calcium consumed 'naturally' in milk or yogurt, for example, can increase bone density and help lower blood pressure, but if you are taking supplements, discuss with your doctor.  And, lots of cautions about self-medicating with over the counter supplements (which are also not quality controlled).