Whats the difference between calcium citrate and calcium carbonate?

Are you tired of not knowing the difference between calcium citrate and calcium carbonate? Well, look no further! In this article, we will explore the unique qualities of these two types of supplements. Get ready to geek out as we dive into the world of minerals and their effects on our body.

The Basics

Let’s start with the basics. Both calcium citrate and carbonate are forms of calcium that can be taken orally as a supplement. But what exactly is calcium?

Calcium is a mineral that plays an essential role in various bodily functions such as bone health, muscle function, nerve transmission, blood clotting, and even hormone secretion. It’s kind of a big deal, so it’s necessary to ensure proper levels are maintained through diet or supplementation.

Now let’s take apart both types!

What is Calcium Citrate?

Calcium citrate contains calcium bound with citric acid which facilitates its absorption by your body in low-acidic environments — namely people who suffer from some gastrointestinal problems like Crohn’s disease or achlorhydria (low stomach acid).

Citric acid acts as a chelator [that’s just a fancy word for “binding chemical”] for metal ions including iron & magnesium; So if you ever encountered pesky rust stains on your clothes – go ahead pour lemon juice over them – soaking your cloth in acidic liquid should remove those nasty marks!

One advantage to taking calcium citrate instead of other forms such as carbonate would lower doses required because more amount absorbed.Here’s another bonus information: Did you know citrus fruits have quite large amounts per serving relative to similar-sized vegetables!

And What About Calcium Carbonate?

Calcium Carbonate contains good old-fashioned regular chalk- mineral form commonly found in nature!. It starts life off being dug out directly from rocks or often gets synthesized in a laboratory using calcium, carbon dioxide and water.

The chalk or limestone is then powdered into white, tasteless granules before getting packaged for shipments across the globe. One of its significant advantages is that it’s affordable which makes it widely available to the general population.

While calcium carbonate can be as effective as citrate under optimal conditions but needs strong stomach acid ph level for proper dissolution/ absorption.With low acidic levels prevented by any gastrointestinal factors such deficiencies of hydrochloric acid or gastritis which could compromise your absorption (and gut flora),citrate form would become more advantageous

Absorption Rates

So, we know both types are forms of supplements that provide us with much-needed calcium. But what distinguishes them from one another? Well, absorption rates!

Calcium Citrate Absorption

Calcium citrate absorbs quickly on an empty stomach because our bodies don’t have to produce unique acids to break down this kind of supplement – specifically those suffering from achlorhydria (Low Stomach Acid).That’s why dietary calcium sources like juice may yield better blood plasma concentration.Anyway,it allows you some flexibility because dosage doesn’t necessarily depend on whether it was taken along with food or not.

Calcium Carbonate Absorption

Oh! The good old-fashioned regular chalk – mineral form commonly found in nature! While similar amounts can be absorbed over time when ingested with meals containing sufficient acidity/temperature activations means therapeutically taking higher doses less convenient than targeted absorptions.
It usually requires either a seaprated supplementation after having meals(it ensures the production of enough gastric juices needed for maximum dissolve)or having ingested just acidic diet 2-3 hours prior consuming carbonate tablets/capsules.

One major factor impacting issues related to efficacy-dosage association relates patients’ medication adherence behaviour.Less favourable side effects often encountered(due potential disruption to digestive systems) cause people to discontinue entirely, leading them back to square one![no sir]Try and persevere through these tough stomach aches – you don’t want to jeopardize your calcium supplementation altogether!

Which One Should You Choose?

In conclusions not all supplements are made equal; what is right for some might not be correct for others.The most fitting supplement depends on a variety of factors. For example, if you have good gastric acid levels in the stomach or consume foods that allow sufficient absorption of carbonate pills then go ahead with it.

Moreover,it would be ideal when taking regional/local budget constraints (citrate could prove economical while travelling abroad under suboptimal calcium sources),potential intolerances (any derivatives of dairy/milk would lead towards avoiding carbonates – biocarbonate reaction!),lifestyle element,dosage frequency options(Convenience parameter).

Side Effects & Interactions

While there are few side effects related directly associated with calcium because our bodies naturally regulate where it’s stored- hidden dangers lurk around interactions by other medication/supplements typically depressants.

It’s advisable running heavy drugs consumption ideas through specialists,since many medications affecting sleep,memory function,pain,to name only but a few often contain chemicals require nearer observation which might directly interacts with such minerals(Be mindful) as haphazard combinations can result into undesired results!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it! Calcium citrate versus calcium carbonate: the unique qualities they possess and how they differentiate from one another. Remember that no two bodies are alike, so make sure always consulting with specialist before starting any new dietary regimen!



If absorbed plenty every day then reap rewards stronger teeth,bones,functional muscles.. and cells too.We suggest ensuring both form forms present in balanced proportion within diet especially since food habits plays pivotal role at mitigating non-modifiable risks.So now, go ahead and get your calcium on!

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