Calcium and hypertension.

Abstract

A possible relationship between dietary calcium intake and blood pressure has been the focus of considerable recent observational and experimental research. To provide a current perspective, we have reviewed and summarized the epidemiologic data, evidence suggesting abnormalities in calcium metabolism in human hypertension, studies evaluating calcium supplementation in various hypertension populations, and data that may help elucidate possible blood pressure-lowering mechanisms of calcium supplementation. An important relationship between "calcium metabolism" and "salt-sensitivity" is emerging and appears to be providing insights into potential mechanisms that account for the antihypertensive properties of dietary calcium in certain individuals. More experimental work needs to be performed to further define the individuals with hypertension who demonstrate a blood pressure-lowering response to dietary calcium supplementation.