Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body. Almost all of the calcium in the body is found in the skeleton – more than 98% in fact. It is one of the important mineral required at a very early and teenager age. For women, it is best to store the calcium at a young age to delay menopausal calcium problems.
There are many natural sources of calcium which includes dairy products, nuts & oilseeds, green leafy vegetables etc., but due to inhibitory factors present in our diet – it gets difficult to meet our daily calcium requirement.
If you planning to supplement your calcium requirement, it is always good to understand the types of calcium available in the market:
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 chewable. To improve the absorption of this form of calcium, it can be taken with meals.
CALCIUM CITRATE:
Calcium citrate is a combination of calcium and citric acid. Because stomach acids are needed for calcium to be absorbed by the body, citric acid (from fruits) provides an acidic environment for improved calcium absorption.
CALCIUM CITRATE MALATE (CCM):
Calcium citrate malate is one of the most absorbable forms of calcium available. This calcium source combines calcium carbonate with citric acid (citrus fruits) and malic acid (apples), both of which help to increase calcium absorption and improve bone density. Studies in post-menopausal women over the age of 55 demonstrate that CCM results in 70% less bone loss when compared to a diet without calcium supplementation and 40% less bone loss when compared to a diet with ordinary calcium carbonate supplementation.
CORAL CALCIUM:
Environmentally friendly coral calcium is gathered from fossilized coral from the Okinawan sea. 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.
Thinking of supplementing Calcium?
The amount of calcium supplied by a calcium supplement is known as the elemental amount of calcium, or the amount of calcium present. Normally this is the total amount of calcium listed on the label under the Supplement 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 limited amounts at one time. Click here to know more about GNC Calcium Citrate
