Is Coral Calcium Safe?

Calcium helps keep your bones and teeth strong and helps out with nerve transmission, muscle function and the secretion of hormones. If you can't meet your calcium needs through food, you can take calcium supplements. Coral calcium is one option for calcium supplements, although it may not be the best or safest option available.

Side Effects

If you take coral calcium supplements, you may experience side effects including bloating, constipation, gas, belching and kidney stones. Splitting up your calcium dose throughout the day can help minimize these side effects, as can taking your supplement along with meals. Splitting up your calcium dose has the added benefit of making it more likely to be absorbed as well.

Contamination

Coral calcium is made from the shells of the creatures that create coral reefs and contains small amounts of other minerals as well as calcium. However, calcium from natural sources is sometimes contaminated with lead. Choose calcium supplements from a purified source that were produced by a reputable manufacturer, recommends the Alzheimer's Association.

Toxicity

Calcium supplements, including coral calcium supplements, can cause toxicity symptoms if consumed in large amounts, including loss of appetite, constipation, nausea, vomiting, thirst, diarrhea, abdominal pain and frequent urination. Stick to amounts within the tolerable upper intake level, which is 2,500 mg per day for adults between the ages of 19 and 50. High supplemental calcium intake can interfere with the absorption of zinc and iron and may increase your risk for kidney stones and prostate cancer, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements.

Considerations

Manufacturers of coral calcium claim this type of calcium offers all types of health benefits. However, coral calcium is simply a form of calcium carbonate and offers only the same benefits as other calcium supplements, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. However, because coral calcium contains a favorable calcium-magnesium ratio, it may be slightly better absorbed.