Getting Adequate Calcium/What to Look For in A Supplement
Calcium supplements are not all equal. When dealing with bone and teeth formation in growing children who are allergic to milk, the big question arises - which supplements are the best? While most supplements are comprised primarily of calcium carbonate, various research indicates that the best form of calcium is actually Citrate. It is highly bioavailable and does not have to be taken with food as carbonate does.

Unfortunately, taking calcium alone is not enough, because it is not well absorbed when taken alone, therefore, the ideal supplement will contain both vitamin D and magnesium which both assist in the absorption of calcium.

There are several types of calcium. Some is derived from oyster shells, and should be avoided. While calcium carbonate is probably the most well known form, there are others that are better absorbed by the body. When looking for a good supplement, look for one that contains several forms of calcium (calcium citrate, gluconate, and lactate, for example). Calcium citrate was recommended to me by an allergy nutrition research pediatric dietitian as the best form of calcium. Many supplements are available, but some are less than ideal. Antacid products (Tums and Rolaids) which contain calcium carbonate,can change the pH level in the stomach and affect the absorption of other nutrients, and should not be taken with other medications. These products have also been linked to allergic disease. The carbonate interferes with the breaking down of proteins and can actually trigger sensitization to allergens 1. Liquid calcium citrate is a great alternative for young children, and comes in a variety of flavors (fruit and mint). There are several varieties of chewable calcium tablets, although many of these contain calcium carbonate.

  • Calcium Citrate - Learn more about calcium citrate, and why it is the superior form of supplemental calcium.

  • Canadian Calcium Requirements (Dietary Reference Intakes) - please go to page two for calcium requirements.

  • Non-Dairy Food Sources of Calcium

  • Here is a wonderful tool to help you calculate just how much calcium is in various foods you are offering

    1Helm, Ricki M., Diet and the Development of Atopic Disease, Current Opinion in Allergy and Clinical Immunology 4(2):125-129, 2004. © 2004 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. This article can be viewed at the following location but requires free registration with Medscape.

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