The amount of calcium supplied by a calcium supplement is the elemental amount of calcium - or, quite simply, the amount of calcium available to your body for absorption. Normally, this is the total amount of calcium listed on the label under the supplement/nutritional facts panel. How much of that calcium is actually absorbed will depend on the type of calcium and how much is taken at one time. Remember, the body is only able to absorb calcium in small amounts.
Whether it’s coming from a food source or a nutritional supplement, not all calcium is created equal in terms of the body’s ability to absorb and use the available calcium. The effectiveness of any one source of calcium can be measured by its calcium content, its ability to be absorbed by the body, and its bone density benefits. Common sources found in dietary supplements include:
• Calcium Citrate Malate- Calcium Citrate Malate is one of the most absorbable calcium available. This patented calcium source combines calcium carbonate with citric acid (from citrus fruits) and malic acid (from apples), both of which help to increase calcium absorption and improve bone density.
• Calcium Carbonate- Calcium carbonate is mined from the earth and has been one of the most commonly used sources of supplemental calcium. Calcium carbonate is the most economical form of calcium and is available in a variety of tablets, capsules and chewables. To improve the absorption of this form of calcium, it is a good idea to take it with meals.
• Coral Calcium- Environmentally friendly coral calcium is gathered from fossilized coral from above the Okinawan sea and the harvesting process protects the delicate ecology of the sea while allowing living reefs and algae to continue to thrive. Coral calcium naturally supplies calcium, magnesium and numerous other essential trace minerals that support body processes.