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Calcium is an element that we need to have stronger bones and teeth. Our bone is the main structure of our body that can be compared to a car’s chassis. If it is weak, you can expect several health problems. If our bones are weak, we lose our ability to move properly. For healthy and strong teeth, we also need calcium. Lack of calcium can lead to tooth decays and cavities.

There are different types of calcium although they differ not in their chemical components. Some calcium types can have an added component making them different than the other types. The percentage of the main calcium structure is in itself an issue.

Calcium Citrate

The type is acquired by combining calcium with citric acid derived from citrus fruits. Calcium citrate helps in reducing stomach acids to improve calcium absorption. It also helps in enhancing food flavor and in preserving food.

Calcium Lactate

This type is used mainly as antacids and is derived from a combination of calcium carbonate and lactic acid. It can be found in aged cheese and is also used as baking powder. It can also be added to xylitol to regenerate the enamel of the tooth through the remineralization process.

Calcium Carbonate

This type is used as a supplement and can be found in most calcium pills available in the market. It is best taken after meals for better absorption. It is also used as antacid and in the production of toothpaste. But this calcium should be used in the right dosage to prevent harmful effects. An overdose of this calcium may result to hypercalcemia, vomiting and altered mental status.

Calcium Citrate Malate

It is the most absorbable calcium known and is a combination of calcium carbonate, citric acid and malic acid. This type of calcium can help women aged over 50 to address their bone problems. Aging women, and even men, can have bone problems as they grow old. One such problem is osteoporosis that can be prevented or cured by taking calcium supplements.

Calcium Phosphate

This is mainly used in the production of fertilizer. But it can also be used in cheese products and as a nutritional supplement.

Calcium Gluconate

It can be used as a nutritional supplement to help make bones stronger. However, it has little amount of elemental calcium so more pills should be taken to address calcium needs.

Various researches have proven the effectiveness of calcium in making bones and teeth stronger. We get our calcium needs from the food we eat as well as from calcium tablet supplements. For some, the taste of calcium pills may not be tolerable so calcium capsules can be taken instead.

The different types of calcium have varying components so it would be best to consult your doctor for the calcium supplement that’s right for you.