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Calcium is the most abundant mineral in our body, but dietary calcium deficiency is a worldwide public health concern. We get calcium from a balanced and healthy diet, including milk, cheese, and other foods, including green vegetables such as curly kale and okra fruits like oranges and papayas are two fruits that are high in calcium. Calcium and magnesium supplements are commonly taken together to support bone health and other bodily functions. But many people in the US don’t consume enough of it.
According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) “In the United States (US), it was reported that 42% of Americans failed to reach their estimated average requirements (EARs) for calcium. Calcium is most known for maintaining our bone health but it also helps in blood clotting and the proper functioning of the muscles, heart, and nerves.”
Due to less availability, different lifestyles, and eating habits for some people, it becomes impossible to meet their daily calcium needs from just their diet. So to overcome the deficiency and to ensure adequate intake supplements are consumed.
Types of Calcium Magnesium Supplement
Calcium supplements come in various forms and each contains different amounts of elemental calcium. Some products use a 1:1 ratio for better absorption. Elemental calcium is the actual amount of calcium your body can use. Here are the types of calcium magnesium supplement you should take note of:
Calcium and magnesium are often combined in a 2:1 ratio (e.g. 1000 mg calcium to 500 mg magnesium).
1. Calcium Carbonate
- This is the most common and cheapest form of calcium supplement where elemental calcium is present around 40%.
- This supplement is best taken with food because it needs stomach acids for absorption.
- You may experience stomach problems such as bloating, gas, or other digestive issues after consuming this form of calcium supplement.
2. Calcium Citrate
This form of calcium is very popular and is very convenient because it does not require stomach acid to absorb so it can be taken without food as well. The amount of elemental calcium present in t is 21%.
3. Calcium Gluconate
It is made up of only 9% of elemental calcium so the amount of elemental calcium present here is very less compared to carbonate and citrate. It’s less commonly used in supplements but might be chosen for specific health needs.
4. Calcium Lactate
Similar to calcium gluconate, calcium lactate contains a lower percentage of elemental calcium. It’s another option that’s less common in supplements but can be used for specific conditions. Only 13% of elemental carbon is present in this form of calcium.
5. Other Forms of Calcium Magnesium Supplement
- Pure Encapsulations – Considered one of the best overall calcium magnesium supplement brands, known for high-quality ingredients.
- Nature Made – A popular and affordable brand offering a calcium magnesium supplement with vitamin D3.
- NOW Foods – Offers calcium carbonate powder and other mineral supplements at reasonable prices.
- Garden of Life – Provides plant-based calcium supplements targeted for women over 50.
- Thorne – Makes advanced bone support formulas combining calcium, magnesium, and other nutrients.
- Webber Naturals – Offers calcium carbonate tablets as well as calcium with magnesium and zinc formulations.
- NATURELO – Produces plant-based calcium supplements with magnesium, vitamin D3, K2 and other nutrients.
- New Chapter – Makes calcium supplements derived from algae, combined with magnesium and vitamin D3.
- MegaFood – Offers calcium and magnesium tablets made with whole food ingredients.
- Progressive – Produces complete calcium supplements for both adults and children
These forms are less commonly found in supplements but are available for specific health needs or in combination with other nutrients. Absorption may be better when taking smaller doses (500 mg or less) with meals. Calcium citrate is often recommended for those with low stomach acid or absorption issues.
Combined Calcium Magnesium Supplement
A calcium magnesium supplement works better with other vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D or magnesium. Vitamin D is essential because it helps the body absorb calcium more effectively. When choosing a supplement, it’s important to check the ingredient list to understand what type of calcium it contains and whether it includes any additional nutrients that might benefit your health.
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Our Top Picks:
According to research, in the United States, 49% of children ages 4-18 years and 39% of people ages 4 and older consume less than the estimated average requirement from their diet this can lead to weaker bones and a higher risk of osteoporosis, which is a condition where your bones become fragile and more likely to break. Finding the best calcium magnesium supplement in this cluttered market can be overwhelming, so we have found the best picks for you to meet your daily calcium needs.
Pure Encapsulations Calcium Citrate
Highly Bioavailable Calcium:
- Calcium citrate form ensures superior absorption.
- Supports bone, cardiovascular, colon, and joint health.
Premium Quality:
- Sourced from trusted suppliers.
- Manufactured in NSF-certified facilities.
- Third-party tested for purity and potency.
Clean Formulation:
- Free from common allergens (wheat, eggs, tree nuts, peanuts).
- Gluten-free, vegan-friendly.
- No artificial colors, flavors, sweeteners, GMOs, or unnecessary additives.
Pros:
- Enhanced absorption with calcium citrate.
- Certified gluten-free and vegan-friendly.
Cons:
Lower calcium content per serving compared to other products.
Dose: 2 Capsule per day
Amazon Review:
“My doctor recommended Pure Encapsulated brand. I have bought several supplements and have been very pleased.”
Renzo’s Hercules Calcium: Key Features
Melty Vitamins for Kids:
- Sugar-free, dissolvable tablets.
- A healthier alternative to sugary gummy vitamins or liquid supplements.
Bone Support:
- Packed with calcium, Vitamin D3, and Vitamin K2.
- Helps build strong bones and teeth, supporting growth, muscles, and nerves.
Kid-Approved Flavors & Clean Ingredients:
- Delicious grapelicious flavor.
- Vegan, non-GMO, sugar-free, gluten-free, and free from artificial colors or flavors.
- Does not specify which allergens the supplement is free from.
Easy to Take:
- Children 2-3 years old take 1 tablet daily; ages 4 and older take 2 tablets daily.
- Tablets dissolve in the mouth or can be mixed into water, juice, or smoothies.
Family-Crafted, Expert-Backed:
- Developed by Dr. Rocca for his son in a family-owned business in Florida.
- Made in an NSF-certified facility and tested by a third-party lab.
Pros:
- Convenient, dissolvable format.
- Free from sugar and artificial ingredients.
Cons:
- Does not provide the full daily value (DV) of calcium for children.
- Specific allergens are not clearly stated by the brand.
Amazon review:
“Love that these vitamins have a lot of simple ingredients and no extra additives, which is important to me. It makes me feel more comfortable to give my child! Was worried about the taste at first, my autistic son who is particular with what he will eat loves them!! so the fact that he will eat these and he enjoys it makes me very happy! A Lil mom win lol I hope this helps my son’s teeth strength & over all I know will benefit his health.”
Nature Made Calcium with Vitamin D3: Key Features
Bone Support:
- Each tablet contains 500 mg of calcium to support strong bones.
- Includes Vitamin D3 to enhance calcium absorption, promoting better bone health.
Formulation:
- Made with calcium carbonate, a cost-effective and widely available form of calcium.
- Contains no added colors and no artificial flavors, making it a cleaner choice.
Dosage:
Adults are advised to take one tablet 1 to 2 times daily, with water and a meal.
Quality Assurance:
- Made in the USA with globally sourced ingredients.
- Verified by United States Pharmacopeia (USP) for purity and potency.
Alternative Options:
For those who find pills difficult to swallow, Nature Made offers a gummy version of this supplement.
Pros:
- Cost-effective and widely available.
- USP-verified for quality assurance.
- Combined with Vitamin D3 for improved calcium absorption.
Cons:
- Pills may be difficult to swallow for some individuals.
- Contains calcium carbonate, which may cause mild gastrointestinal issues like gas and bloating.
Amazon Review:
“We have been using these vitamins for years. They are easy to take. They are sized appropriately and are of good quality and the price point is good.”
Garden of Life Organic Calcium Magnesium
Key Features:
Comprehensive Bone Support: Each serving provides 800 mg of calcium, 60 mg of magnesium, 1,000 IU of vegan vitamin D3, and 80 mcg of vitamin K2, essential for maintaining bone health and preventing osteoporosis.
Plant-Based Calcium: The calcium is sourced from organic algae, offering an easily digestible alternative to traditional calcium carbonate supplements.
Enhanced Absorption: Includes vitamin D3 to improve calcium absorption and support overall bone strength. Vitamin K2 is also included to further support bone health.
Organic and Pure: Certified organic, vegan, and gluten-free. Made without synthetic binders or fillers, and tested for purity and potency by a third party.
Digestibility: Formulated with Clean Tablet Technology for high bioavailability, making it easier on the digestive system.
Pros:
- Certified organic, vegan, and gluten-free
- Third-party tested for purity and potency
- Comprehensive formula for bone health
Cons:
- Relatively expensive
- Requires taking 3 tablets daily
- Not ideal for those seeking a single-nutrient supplement
Caution:
Contains vitamin K, which may interfere with blood-thinning medications like Warfarin. Consult with a healthcare professional before use.
Amazon review:
“I really like the features of this supplement. The plant-based calcium is something I really value. Not to mention, the tablets are easy to digest, a major plus for me. Another winning point is that it’s organic. A fantastic product for overall bone health, teeth and joint support. Highly recommended!”
When choosing a calcium-magnesium supplement, it’s important to consider factors like elemental mineral content, absorption, potential interactions with medications, and your individual nutritional needs. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate supplement for your specific situation.
