Different Calcium Types

By Alyssa Devan

Calcium is an element that we need to have stronger bones and teeth. Our bone is the main structure of our body that can be compared to a car's chassis. If it is weak, you can expect several health problems. If our bones are weak, we lose our ability to move properly. For healthy and strong teeth, we also need calcium. Lack of calcium can lead to tooth decays and cavities.

There are different types of calcium although they differ not in their chemical components. Some calcium types can have an added component making them different than the other types. The percentage of the main calcium structure is in itself an issue.

Calcium Citrate

The type is acquired by combining calcium with citric acid derived from citrus fruits. Calcium citrate helps in reducing stomach acids to improve calcium absorption. It also helps in enhancing food flavor and in preserving food.

Calcium Lactate

This type is used mainly as antacids and is derived from a combination of calcium carbonate and lactic acid. It can be found in aged cheese and is also used as baking powder. It can also be added to xylitol to regenerate the enamel of the tooth through the remineralization process.

Calcium Carbonate

This calcium is used as a supplement. This can be found in most calcium pills in the market. For better absorption, it's best taken after meals. It is also used as an antacid and in toothpaste production. One thing about this calcium is that it needs to be used in the right dosage to prevent harmful effects to the body such as hypercalcemia, vomiting and altered mental status.

Calcium Citrate Malate

This is a combination of calcium carbonate, citric acid and malic acid. As the most absorbable calcium known today, it can help women over 50 years old with their bone problems. Aging women, and some men, may experience bone problems, like osteoporosis, as they grow old. To prevent or cure early onset of bone problems, calcium supplements should be taken.

Calcium Phosphate

Calcium phosphate is used mainly for fertilizer production but, like the others, it can be used as a nutritional supplement and in cheese products.

Calcium Gluconate

This is also used as a nutritional supplement for stronger bones, however, it contains little amount of elemental calcium so you have to take more pills to address calcium needs.

Calcium's help to have stronger bones and teeth has been proven in various researches, so we need this in our everyday diet. There are other ways to obtain calcium aside from the food we eat. You can buy calcium tablet supplements. The taste of a calcium tablet is not always tolerable for most people so you can try calcium capsules instead.

There are different types of calcium with varying components so you need to consult your doctor for the calcium supplement that would suit your calcium needs. - 17269

About the Author:

Alyssa Devan writes about the nutritional information of the different types of calcium.