Milk-alkali syndrome

Milk-alkali syndrome is an acquired condition caused by high levels of calcium (hypercalcemia) and a shift in the body's acid/base balance towards alkaline (metabolic alkalosis).

Milk-alkali syndrome is caused by excessive consumption of milk (which is high in calcium) and soluble alkali-like antacids, especially calcium carbonate orsodium bicarbonate (baking soda) over a prolonged period of time.

Calcium deposits in the kidneys and other tissues may occur in milk-alkali syndrome. This condition is exacerbated by the consumption of vitamin D, which is frequently added to milk bought at the supermarket. In the past, milk-alkali syndrome was often a side effect of treating peptic ulcer disease. It is rarely seen today, because of newer, better medications available for teatment of ulcers.

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