While the most effective and healthiest ways to get sufficient calcium is through your diet, you may not be able to meet your daily requirements through your food intake. If you're lactose intolerant, you may need to rely on calcium supplements. A calorie-reduction diet may leave you with a calcium deficiency. Calcium supplements are widely available in different forms so you can find one that works for you even if you have digestive disorders. Your doctor can help you find the most appropriate supplement for your individual stomach condition.
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The two main types of calcium supplements are calcium carbonate and calcium citrate. The least expensive form is calcium carbonate. It requires that you have a healthy digestive tract and produce a certain amount of stomach acid to make it effective. When you have an upset stomach, the supplement may interfere with other medications. At the same time, calcium carbonate often is the main ingredient in antacids that reduce the bile in your stomach. The chewable antacids may be more palatable if your stomach is upset and you need extra calcium. Calcium carbonate supplements may be better tolerated if you take them with a glass of orange juice.
Interactions
Calcium citrate is much easier to digest if you have a stomach disorder. It is rapidly absorbed in your system and may be more palatable for seniors with sensitive digestive systems. Calcium citrate supplements typically are more expensive and you have to be careful about taking them with other supplements. Avoid taking calcium citrate with antacids because the amount of aluminum your body absorbs may increase. Your doctor can advise you about other interactions. For example, calcium supplements may reduce the effectiveness of osteoporosis medications, diuretics and antibiotics.
Ingredients
Calcium supplements are made primarily of oyster shells, bone meal and dolomite. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, they can contain toxic metals that may be harmful for young children or if you have kidney disease. The toxins can lead to brain damage, cause anemia or raise blood pressure. The ingredients in calcium supplements can lead to constipation and stomach aches that you can offset with a high-fiber diet.
Side Effects
Taking a combination of supplements and dietary sources of more than 2,500 mg of calcium per day can give you an upset stomach and lead to constipation. Continuing to take the high dosages can lead to the formation of kidney stones and high calcium blood levels, according to the New York State Department of Health. To prevent side effects and get the highest absorption rate, you shouldn't take more than 500 mg at a time, spreading out your intake throughout the day.
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