Does Calcium Carbonate Pose Risk?

Q. My doctor has taken me off calcium because of studies showing that calcium supplements may increase the risk of heart disease. Is it safe for me to take calcium carbonate for heartburn? What else can you recommend?
A. Many people were surprised by research showing that calcium supplements were associated with a higher risk of heart attacks (BMJ, online April 19, 2011; Heart, June, 2012). Taking calcium carbonate for occasional heartburn should not put you in danger, but there are other options. These range from herbal tea to sugarless gum, ginger or baking soda.
For more information about handling heartburn, we are sending you our Guide to Digestive Disorders. You may be surprised by some of the more unusual approaches, such as vinegar, mustard or hot peppers.
Some readers have had very good success using persimmon punch for heartburn. It contains contains fresh ginger root, cinnamon sticks and persimmon, with sweetening to taste.