Numéro
J. Phys. IV France
Volume 107, May 2003
Page(s) 597 - 600
DOI https://doi.org/10.1051/jp4:20030374


J. Phys. IV France
107 (2003) 597
DOI: 10.1051/jp4:20030374

Lead from calcium supplements contributes minimally to blood lead concentrations

B.L. Gulson1, 2, K.J. Mizon1, 2, J.M. Palmer2, M.J. Korsch2 and A.J. Taylor3

1  Graduate School of the Environment, Macquarie University, Sydney NSW 2109, Australia
2  CSIRO, Division of Exploration and Mining, North Ryde, Australia
3  Department of Psychology, Macquarie University, Sydney NSW 2109, Australia


Abstract
We undertook a study using lead isotopes to determine the contribution of lead to blood from consumption of calcium supplements approximating the recommended daily intakes over a 6 month period. Subjects were subdivided into three groups. One treatment group ( $\rm n=8$) was administered a complex calcium supplement (carbonite/phosphate/citrate) and the other treatment group ( $\rm n=7$), calcium carbonate. The control group ( $\rm n=6$) received no supplementation. The lead isotopic compositions of the supplements were completely different from those of the blood of the subjects. Lead isotopic compositions for the complex supplement showed minimal change during treatment compared with pre-treatment. Lead isotopic compositions in blood for the calcium carbonate supplement showed increases of up to 0.5% in the 206Pb/ 204Pb ratio, and for all isotope ratios there was a statistically significant difference between bascline and treatment ( p <0.005). Blood tead concentrations showed minimal changes.



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