Citracal's full name is Citracal calcium citrate. When not getting enough calcium in a diet, Citracal is an option for a supplement. A calcium deficiency will result in poor quality bones. The outer structure and inner part of the bone will be weak making it susceptible to fractures. Long-term effects of this deficiency may develop into osteoporosis. This is a condition where the spongy inner bone has lost its density.
Calcium Citrate
Calcium citrate is the main ingredient in Citracal. There are two types of calcium supplements: calcium citrate and calcium carbonate. Both are equally effective for replacing calcium. Calcium citrate, which is in Citracal, does not need as much stomach acid to be absorbed whereas calcium carbonate does. As such, Citracal can be taken on an empty stomach when there is less stomach acid present. Calcium carbonate needs to be taken with food because increased stomach acids will be needed for absorption. Food increases stomach acid production.
Citracal Vitamin D
Citracal has another option that includes vitamin D in the ingredients. Vitamin D helps with calcium absorption. Vitamin D deficiencies are common because very few foods contain this vitamin. Because calcium and vitamin D work together, it is an advantage to have them in one pill. According to the National Institutes of Health, adults 19-50 years of age, should have a daily intake of 200 international units (IUs). People age 51-70 should have 400 IUs.
Citracal with Magnesium
Another choice for the Citracal line includes magnesium with the calcium citrate. Magnesium is an important mineral needed for organs such as the heart and kidneys. It helps make up teeth, bones and muscles. Magnesium is found in many foods such as grains and nuts. Americans tend to be magnesium deficient if dependent on diet alone; thus, supplements are beneficial. Daily intake for female adults is 280-300 milligrams, adult men 270-400 milligrams.
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