Calcium, the most abundant mineral in the body, is important for many functions in the body, including maintaining healthy bones and teeth. The two most common forms of calcium supplement are calcium citrate and calcium carbonate. Calcium citrate may be beneficial for a number of health conditions such as PMS and low bone density, however it may have side effects. Always consult a doctor before taking calcium supplements.
Better Absorbed than Calcium Carbonate
In a study published in a November 1999 issue of the "American Journal of Therapeutics," researchers compared the bioavailability of calcium carbonate with that of calcium citrate. The research comprised of 15 studies involving 184 subjects who underwent measurement of calcium absorption from calcium carbonate and calcium citrate taken with or between meals. The team found that calcium citrate was better absorbed than calcium carbonate when taken with or between meals.
Premenstrual Syndrome
Women who suffer with premenstrual syndrome, commonly known as PMS, experience both physical and emotional symptoms each month from two to 14 days before their period. The symptoms usually go away once their periods begin. Typical symptoms include, mood swings, skin problems, changes in interest in sex, headaches, backaches, anxiety, cramps, food cravings, bloating and weight gain. According to the University of Maryland, calcium citrate may help to reduce the symptoms of PMS. The university recommends 500 to 1,000 mg of calcium citrate and 400 IU of vitamin D daily for PMS.
Bone Density
In a study published in a November 1999 issue of the "American Journal of Therapeutics," researchers studied the effect of calcium citrate on bone density. The study involved 63 postmenopausal women who took either 400 mg of calcium citrate twice daily, or a placebo daily for one to two years. Researchers found 400 mg of calcium citrate twice daily reduced bone loss and stabilized bone density in postmenopausal women. .
Side Effects
Calcium citrate can cause side effects such as increased urination, decreased appetite, constipation, nausea, increased thirst and vomiting.
Calcium citrate can interfere with the absorption of medications, so if you are on prescribed medications such as digoxin, antacids, calcitriol, doxycycline, minocycline or tetracycline, consult a doctor before taking calcium citrate supplements. An allergic reaction to calcium citrate can cause symptoms such as swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat and difficulty breathing, if you have any of these symptoms you should get emergency medical help immediately.
References
- "American Journal of Therapeutics"; Meta-Analysis of Calcium Bioavailability: A Comparison of Calcium Citrate with Calcium Carbonate; K. Sakhaee, et al.; November 1999
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Premenstrual Syndrome
- "American Journal of Therapeutics"; The Effect of Calcium Citrate on Bone Density in the Early and Mid-Postmenopausal Period: A Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study; L.A. Ruml, et al.; November 1999
- Drugs.com: Calcium Citrate
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