A lot of us take calcium supplements (because we were told to by our mothers and doctors!) and even more of us have hearts.  So a lot of us want answers.  Here is the way I see it:

This is a discussion that needs to occur between you and your physician - we are all wonderfully unique and the same answer does not fit for all of us.  So let me 'arm' you with some questions,facts, and opinions for the discussion you might wish to have with your doctor (this author's opinion in italics).

* Am I getting enough calcium in my diet and is that a better means than supplementation? You are likely getting more than you think and yes, low fat dairy, almonds, fortified OJ, green leafy vegetables, fried alligator (fried alligator?! ahhh, how sweet, you are paying attention) is better than a pill because it is absorbed slower (theory is the rapid calcium influx may be increasing risk of heart attack).

* How well is it proven that calcium or calcium + vitamin D prevent bone fractures? (surprisingly, not well proven)

* If I have osteoporosis should I take medications or supplements (unfortunately, medications).

* If calcium supplements increase heart attacks by 20 or 30%, why don't they increase stroke or death? (no clue, let me know if your doctor has a good answer for this one)

* I have a good way to build bone and prevent fractures without supplements - exercise! Serious, it really works

We have four parks up and running, I mean walking (that never, ever gets old - or does it?)

Highbanks, Franklin Park Conservatory, Park of Roses, and Westerville.  Please check our website, www.walkwithadoc.org for all the details, times, and specific locations.  W.N.S.C. does not allow me to share any more information as I am bound to screw it up.

This Saturday, Highbanks will be discussing how to know what the best individualized speed, distance, time and effort is for you while you are walking.  It's an episode you and your family can not afford to miss (like the one when Blossom (or Punky Brewster) almost got in the car with someone who had been drinking)). 

Yes sir, I mean ma'am, I mean sir! A little bit of miscellaneous to share:

 
Thank you to Nationwide for hosting us yesterday, and a healthy Walk with a Doc welcome to all the new subscribers. Thank you for your trust.

Columbus City School Leadership Summit - once again, it was a pleasure. Thank you for our Tues, Weds, Thurs WWADs - it was fun.

Al Roker was not kidding.  Low of 60 and high of 81 on Saturday with zero precipitation throughout much of OH on Saturday.  Are you serious!

CMH Magazine and MD News - Thank you for your generosity.  We are sincerely humbled and honored to be part of the August issues.  We will have several copies at the Hibx Walk this Saturday.  My wife's butt is the lead picture in the CMH article - proud of you honey! 

Bricker and Eckler - Buckle up - we will see you at noon for a walk and talk.  Thanks for the invite.