Calcium carbonate is a chemical compound that in its different forms creates limestone, marble and chalk. It is an alkaline chemical, meaning its pH is higher than pure water. Calcium carbonate is the active ingredient in many over-the-counter treatments for heartburn, which is caused by an overproduction of acid in the stomach. When calcium carbonate interacts with stomach acid, it neutralizes the acid and balances the pH in the stomach by increasing alkalinity. Although usually found in pill or dissolvable tablet form, you can also take calcium carbonate as a powder.
Step 1
Eat your last meal at least two hours before you take calcium carbonate. If your stomach is actively digesting food, the calcium carbonate will leave the food partially undigested. This can create nutrient absorption problems, bloating and constipation.
Step 2
Measure out the amount of calcium carbonate powder that the manufacturer recommends on the label. This is often 1 tsp.
Step 3
Fill a glass with 8 to 12 oz. of water. Do not use juice because the acid in fruit and vegetable juices can negate the alkaline-balancing effects of calcium carbonate.
Step 4
Pour the dose of calcium carbonate into the glass of water. Mix the solution with a spoon until the calcium carbonate powder dissolves. The water will remain cloudy even after the powder dissolves completely.
Step 5
Drink the mixture. You will likely have an increase in belching and flatulence as the calcium carbonate works against your stomach acid to increase alkalinity, creating a more balanced pH in your stomach.
Things You'll Need
- Measuring spoon
- Glass
- Spoon
References
- Drugs.com: Calcium Carbonate; June 2011
- PubMed: Calcium Carbonate; May 2010
- FamilyDoctor: Antacids and Acid Reducers: OTC Relief for Heartburn and Acid Reflux; FamilyDoctor.org Editorial Staff; Jan. 2011
- Amazon: Calcium Carbonate Powder
- Industrial Minerals Association North America: Calcium Carbonate
Member Comments