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Coral Calcium Vs. Calcium Citrate

Calcium is an essential mineral used by your body to build bones and manage certain metabolic functions. It is used by your body to help regulate blood clotting mechanisms, maintain your heart rate and aid in nerve function. Coral calcium and calcium citrate are popular forms of calcium supplements. All types of calcium supplements are absorbed by your body more effectively when combined with vitamin D.

  1. Benefits of Calcium Supplements

    • According to the article, "Calcium Supplements: Benefits and Risks," published in the 2004 edition of US Pharmacist, calcium is effective in helping to prevent bone loss due to osteoporosis. In her article, "High Intake of Calcium, Vitamin D May Reduce the Risk of Premenstrual Syndrome," published in the MedScape News, Laurie Barclay, MD reports that high doses of calcium and vitamin D may help to prevent premenstural syndrome in women.

    Coral Calcium

    • Coral calcium is derived from natural fossilized coral reefs in the ocean. The coral is harvested and the calcium is extracted from it. Coral calcium contains essential trace minerals, including magnesium. Coral calcium is a form of calcium carbonate which is found in many organic sources such as bone meal, shells and dolomite.

    Calcium Citrate

    • Calcium citrate is the naturally occurring calcium salt of citric acid. It is the product of the fermentation process used to produce citric acid. Calcium citrate is absorbed by the body 2.5 times better than calcium carbonate. Besides use for calcium supplements, calcium citrate is also used for water softening and as a food preservative.

    Recommended Dosages of Calcium

    • The U.S. National Institutes of Health recommends that adults from the ages of 19 to 50 should get 1,000 mg of calcium a day and adults over the age of 50 should get 1,200 mg per day.

    Risks of Excessive Calcium Intake

    • Your body normally excretes excess calcium through your urine, but it is not recommended that you take over 2,500 mg of calcium per day. Calcium can block the absorption of some medications. You should not take it at the same time as your prescription medications unless instructed to do so by your doctor. In rare cases, excessive calcium intake can impair kidney function.

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