Several studies have reported a negative relationship between calcium intake and body weight. This study by Bendsen et al. investigated the effect of calcium intake from low-fat dairy products on fecal fat excretion. This randomized cross-over study included 11 individuals and compared two 7-day diets: one with an elevated calcium intake from low-fat dairy products and one low in calcium intake. Fecal fat excretion was twice as high in subjects on the high-calcium diet compared to subjects on the low-calcium diet (11.5±1.4 vs. 5.4±0.5 gd-1, p<0.0001). Fecal energy excretion was also higher in subjects on the high-calcium diet (p=0.0029). Fecal excretions of total, saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids were all significantly greater on the high-calcium than on the low-calcium diet. Total fecal excretion of bile acids did not differ between the two diet groups. Results of this study provide a partial explanation for why dietary calcium intake can cause weight loss.
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