Is coral calcium better than plain calcium?
On One Hand: It May Be BeneficialCoral calcium contains calcium carbonate and many other minerals. Coral calcium was popularized by Robert Barefoot, who claims that this supplement is good for overall health, and that by balancing the body’s acidity, it aids in the relief and prevention of pain, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.On the Other: Claims of Superior Benefits DebunkedMost of Robert Barefoot’s claims regarding coral calcium have been debunked, and some have been labeled outrageous by medical authorities. The UC Berkeley Wellness Letter notes that the body couldn’t support the levels of acidity that the proponents of coral calcium claim are present. Time magazine labels the claims about coral calcium a “scam,” and Quackwatch warns consumers to “be wary” about the supplement.Bottom LineCoral calcium is 20 times more expensive than plain calcium, and it is known to contain lead.
