Calcium is one of the most important minerals for our bodies. It plays a key role in bone health and many other processes. While dietary sources of calcium are important, calcium supplements can help ensure adequate calcium intake, especially for those who don’t consume enough calcium-rich foods. One popular supplemental form of calcium is calcium lactate. This article will explore what calcium lactate is, its uses and benefits, as well as some key facts about this calcium supplement.
What is Calcium Lactate?
Calcium lactate is a mineral supplement that provides calcium bound to lactic acid. Lactic acid is a byproduct of exercise and food metabolism. It occurs naturally in many dairy products. In calcium lactate, one calcium ion is bound to two lactic acid molecules. This forms a calcium salt called calcium lactate.
Calcium lactate has been used as a calcium supplement for many decades. It was first synthesized in 1877 and was recognized as a supplemental form of calcium in the 1950s. Today, calcium lactate is a common ingredient in many multivitamins and standalone calcium supplements.
Absorption and Utilization
One advantage of Calcium Lactate is that it is highly bioavailable, meaning the calcium is well-absorbed in the digestive tract. Studies have found calcium absorption from calcium lactate is comparable to absorption from calcium carbonate, a frequently used calcium supplement.
The lactic acid molecule in calcium lactate allows it to dissolve and dissociate easily in the stomach. This promotes efficient absorption of the calcium ion in the small intestine. Once absorbed, the calcium circulates in the bloodstream where it is then incorporated into bones and teeth or used for other functions throughout the body.
Uses and Benefits of Calcium Lactate
– Bone Health: Adequate calcium intake throughout life is vital for building strong bones in childhood and maintaining bone density as we age. Calcium lactate can help support bone mineralization and reduce bone loss.
– Blood Pressure: Some research links increased calcium intake to modest reductions in blood pressure. The calcium in lactate may contribute to this effect.
– Muscle Function: Calcium is needed for muscle contraction. Calcium lactate can help facilitate muscle function.
– Heart Health: Studies link higher calcium intake to a moderately lower risk of hypertension. Calcium lactate may confer some of these cardiovascular benefits.
– Pregnancy and Lactation: Expectant and nursing mothers need extra calcium. Calcium lactate can be a good supplement choice during these life stages.
– Energy and Metabolism: Calcium is involved in energy production and hormone secretions. Adequate calcium through supplements like lactate may impact metabolism and energy levels.
It is generally recognized as safe for supplemental calcium intake up to 2500 mg per day for adults. It is also used to fortify foods like plant-based milks and cereals.
Forms and Supplement Facts
Calcium lactate is available as a standalone supplement in capsule or tablet form. Most multivitamins also contain some amount of calcium lactate as the calcium component.
The Supplement Facts panel will list the active ingredient as “Calcium (as Calcium Lactate)” followed by the amount of elemental calcium provided per serving. Common serving sizes contain between 100-300 mg of calcium though higher dose options exist.
It’s important to check the label to determine how much calcium is in each serving and to follow dosage guidelines. Too much supplemental calcium from any form is generally unnecessary and could pose health risks if taken long-term in extremely high amounts.
Safety and Interactions
Calcium lactate is generally well-tolerated when taken as directed on supplement labels. However, excessive intakes above the tolerable upper limits should be avoided. A few potential concerns to be aware of include:
– Kidney Stones: High calcium intake, especially from supplements, may increase risk of kidney stones in some individuals predisposed to their formation. Fluid intake helps reduce this risk.
– Drug Interactions: Calcium can interfere with absorption of some medications like levothyroxine, bisphosphonates, and quinolone antibiotics if taken around the same time. It’s best to space doses apart.
– Mineral Imbalances: Very high calcium intake over long periods could potentially interfere with absorption of other minerals like iron and zinc. A balanced diet helps prevent deficiencies.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should check with their healthcare provider before using supplemental calcium as requirements increase during these stages. Children under 18 should only take calcium supplements under the guidance of a doctor.
calcium lactate is a highly bioavailable form of supplemental calcium that provides the same bone and overall health benefits as other calcium salts. It is generally regarded as a safe and effective source of elemental calcium when taken as directed on labels. For those seeking a calcium supplement or looking to boost their dietary calcium intake, calcium lactate is an excellent option. Just be sure not to exceed recommended daily intake amounts.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
