Minerals
About Calcium Supplements
Most often calcium supplements are available in 250-500 mg tablets. Here are different types of calcium supplements:
- The best form is chelated calcium tablets. Calcium citrate provides the most usable calcium per tablet. Calcium is best absorbed in an acidic environment, hence calcium citrate is the best absorbed supplemental form of calcium. It does not require extra stomach acid for absorption, hence we may take it anytime in a day, even on an empty stomach. Chewable calcium citrate supplements are available in flavors. Calcium citrate is also available as effervescent tablets that dissolve in water and become a pleasant tasting drink. Get Calcium Citrate Supplements
- Bonemeal, formerly one of the most popular supplements, is no longer recommended - especially for children because of its possible high lead content.
- Calcium gluconate (a vegetarian source) or calcium lactate (a milk sugar derivative) are definitely lead-free and easy to absorb. Gluconate is more potent than lactate. Get Calcium Lactate Supplements
- Coral Calcium: This type of calcium is marketed for more than bone health. Its infomercial claimed that it can cure 200 human diseases. However, there is no evidence that calcium can cure any diseases other than its role in bone health and osteoporosis prevention. You may refer this: Coral Calcium Supplements Scam.
Note: Recommended source for buying best calcium supplements.
The letters USP (U.S. Pharmacopeia) on the label indicate that the calcium in the product has met quality standards for dissolving within 30 minutes.
Most good multivitamins and mineral preparations include calcium. When combined with magnesium, the ratio should be twice as much calcium as magnesium.
- If you are taking antibiotics, calcium supplements may inhibit their effectiveness.
- Calcium supplements are best absorbed when taken with meals.
- Taking calcium and magnesium at bedtime can help you get a good night's rest.
How calcium helps our body?
Calcium is our body's most abundant mineral. Its primary function is to help build and maintain bones and teeth. Calcium is important to heart health, nerves, muscles and skin. Calcium helps control blood acid-alkaline balance, plays a role in cell division, muscle growth and iron utilization, activates certain enzymes, and helps transport nutrients through cell membranes. Calcium also forms a cellular cement called ground substance that helps hold cells and tissues together.
RDA of Calcium
Recommended Daily Allowance - Calcium | |
Men | 1200 mg |
Women | 1200 mg |
Children | 800 mg |
Infants | 500 mg |
Lactating Women | 1200 mg |
Preganant Women | 1200 mg |
More on Calcium Supplements
- If you have chronic back pain, chelated calcium supplements might help.
- If you are a teenager suffering from "growing pains", increasing calcium consumption may help.
- Menstrual-cramp sufferers can often find relief by increasing calcium intake.
- If you consume lots of soft drinks, which are high in phosphorus, you may be depleting your body of calcium and increasing your chances of osteoporosis. Remember, too much phosphorus can deplete calcium.
- The body loses bone density during extended bed rest, so you need extra calcium if you have been bedridden for a week or more.
Read more on calcium absorption, benefits, deficiency, natural sources and more...