What’s the best calcium supplement?
Most patients ask this question in regard to osteoporosis prevention and treatment. Supplemental calcium varies in absorption, assimilation, and toxicity, depending on the type. Dolomite and bone meal, both of which are derived from bone, may contain toxic levels of lead and are thus not recommended. Calcium carbonate, most often taken as Tums ™, is poorly absorbed. We prefer calcium citrate, microcrystalline calcium hydroxyapatite (MCHA), or calcium D-glucarate. Studies reveal that MCHA is assimilated into bone tissue more readily than other calcium sources. GSMC’s MCHA is made by Douglas Labs. Though MCHA is derived from bone, modern, refined extraction techniques “get the lead out,” making it compliant even with California’s extremely stringent guidelines on lead intake set at 1.5 mcg/day. Taking calcium by itself does not improve bone density. It needs to be taken with other trace minerals (e.g. strontium and boron) to support bone and also vitamins D and K, B vitamin complex, and,
