What is Calcium Citrate? Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body and is essential for several biological processes, including cellular signaling, mitochondrial function, blood clotting, muscle contraction, and nerve impulse transmission. Its most well-known purposes are to build and maintain strong bones and teeth. Calcium can also bind to other minerals and assist in eliminating them from the body. Calcium citrate is a calcium salt derived from citric acid. It is one of the most bioavailable forms of calcium available on the market, equal to that of calcium carbonate. However, calcium citrate supplements don’t interact with stomach acid, making them easier to absorb than calcium carbonate supplements. Beyond its use as a dietary supplement, the food and beverage industries use calcium citrate as a sour flavoring additive and food preservative. It also has use as a water softener because the citrate can chelate unwanted metal ions. Calcium Deficiency Symptoms Dairy products and dairy-fortified foods account for 72% of dietary calcium intake in the United States. The richest calcium foods include milk, yogurt, and various kinds of cheese. As a result, individuals with lactose intolerance or those following a vegan or vegetarian diet may struggle to consume adequate calcium from their diets. Low levels of vitamin D can also contribute to calcium deficiencies. Postmenopausal women and the elderly also have an increased risk of calcium insufficiency. The body needs calcium to sustain itself, and it will leach it from bones and teeth to obtain it if necessary. Deficiency symptoms become more prominent the longer the body goes without adequate calcium intake. The following are several calcium deficiency symptoms: Nails that break easily Bones that fracture easily Slowed hair growth Fragile, thin skin Muscle spasms and cramps Numbness or tingling in hands and feet Confusion or memory problems Potential Calcium Benefits Calcium for Bones Numerous scientific studies have proven calcium’s role in developing and maintaining healthy bones. The FDA also recognizes this fact and requires all food labels to include their calcium contents. Calcium supplements are particularly important for older adults, as hormonal changes can lead to bone wastage and mineral loss from bone tissue. Calcium supplements are even more effective for older adults when paired with vitamin D. The body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium. It also reduces bone loss and the risk of fractures in the elderly population. What is the Best Calcium Supplement? PureBulk carries numerous calcium supplements. Which one is best depends on the individual’s needs. For example, calcium citrate is best for older adults and individuals with insufficient stomach acid. Calcium carbonate is another highly bioavailable calcium supplement. PureBulk also offers coral calcium, which provides calcium carbonate and magnesium. Calcium Citrate with Vitamin D Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and also plays a role in strengthening muscles. Calcium and Magnesium Calcium works with magnesium to sustain bone health. Most individuals need a 2:1 ratio of calcium to magnesium for optimal results. Older adults, individuals with diabetes, and individuals with malabsorptive conditions have a greater risk of developing magnesium and calcium deficiencies. How to Take Calcium Supplements for Best Absorption Most calcium supplements require acid to break them down. However, calcium citrate is the one exception. The body absorbs the calcium from calcium citrate supplements equally well with or without food. Calcium citrate supplements are the superior option for individuals taking proton-pump inhibitors and older adults, as they naturally have lower stomach acid levels. Calcium citrate supplements are also better for bariatric bypass patients that received gastric bypass surgery, as it’s easier for their altered anatomy to absorb. How Much Calcium Per Day? Calcium supplements work best when taken throughout the day. Although most adults need 1000mg of calcium per day, they should not take more than 600mg of calcium at a time. Calcium needs change with age and certain medical conditions. For example, pregnant and lactating women need 1300mg of calcium per day. Women over the age of 50 and all adults over the age of 70 need 1200mg per day. 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