Thorne Research - DiCalcium Malate - Concentrated Calcium Supplement with DimaCal for Bone Density Support - 120 Capsules
- Gluten-free
- Dairy-free
- Soy-free
- Nut-free
Pros:
- 4 rounds of testing for raw materials, stability, purity, and meeting label claims. This is much more than many companies do.
- DiCalcium Malate (DimaCal) is more concentrated than other well-absorbed forms of calcium
- Increased concentration translates to more calcium per capsule - 250 mg per capsule
- DiCalcium Malate is better absorbed that calcium carbonate*
- Flavors, colors, preservatives, and sweeteners derived from natural sources.
- Thorne Products never contain gluten, Genetically Modified Organisms (known as GMOs), artificial preservatives, stearates, wheat, rye, barley, eggs, or nuts.
Ingredients concern: None discovered
Cons:
- Need to take a capsule twice a day (not everyone likes taking things morning and night)
- This product does not contain Magnesium or Vitamin D3 which helps calcium transport through the bod. This is extremely important if you are defivient in Magnesium or Vitamin D. You may consider this calcium product instead.
- Calcium supplements in general can cause gastrointestinal side effects, particularly constipation, and increase the risk of kidney stones [3]
Based on peer reviewed studies and science, it is recommended to maintain calcium intake from 500-1000 mg day for older individuals at risk of osteoporosis, but there seems to be little need for calcium supplements except in individuals with major malabsorption problems or substantial abnormalities of calcium metabolism. Therefore, it is important to consult with a doctor before taking calcium. [3].
Research indicates that widespread use of calcium supplements in individuals without a specific bone issue is not helpful, and may cause harm. Also, vitamin D supplements should be reserved for those with vitamin D deficiency or risk factors, principally low sunlight exposure or dark skin and not living in a sunny environment. These recommendations are consistent with those of the United States Preventive Services Task Force, which also does not support the use of either calcium or vitamin D supplements in otherwise healthy adults that live in communuties. The position of the International Osteoporosis Foundation is similar in that supplementation with calcium alone for fracture reduction is not supported by the literature but that calcium supplementation, with concomitant vitamin D supplementation, is supported for patients at high risk of calcium and vitamin D insufficiency [4].
Calcium (Dicalcium Malate) 250mg
Other Ingredients: Hypromellose Capsule, Medium Chain Triglycerides