Osteoporosis is a serious medical condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is a condition in which your bones become weak and brittle due to a loss of bone mass. This can lead to bone fractures, which can be extremely painful and debilitating. Fortunately, there are things you can do to help prevent or even reverse osteoporosis. One of those things is to ensure that you are getting enough calcium in your diet.
Calcium is an important mineral for building strong bones and maintaining bone health. Unfortunately, many people don’t get enough of it in their diets, so they need to take supplements. But what type of calcium supplement is best? Calcium citrate and calcium carbonate are two of the most popular types of calcium supplements, but there is some debate over which one is best for preventing and treating osteoporosis. Let’s take a closer look.
What Is Calcium Citrate?
Calcium citrate is a calcium supplement made by combining calcium carbonate with citric acid. It is more easily absorbed by the body than other forms of calcium, making it easier for your body to use the calcium to build strong bones. It is also less likely to cause digestive upset, so it is a good option for people who have difficulty digesting other forms of calcium.
What Is Calcium Carbonate?
Calcium carbonate is a calcium supplement made from limestone and other minerals. It is a very popular form of calcium because it is inexpensive and very easy to find. However, it is less easily absorbed by the body than other forms of calcium, so it is not as effective at building strong bones.
Which Is Better for Osteoporosis?
When it comes to osteoporosis, calcium citrate is generally considered to be a better choice than calcium carbonate. This is because it is more easily absorbed by the body and has fewer side effects. Additionally, calcium citrate is more effective at increasing bone mass and improving bone density.
That being said, calcium carbonate is still a good option for people who are looking for a cheaper and more readily available form of calcium. It is important to note, however, that calcium carbonate is less effective than calcium citrate when it comes to treating or preventing osteoporosis.
How Much Calcium Do I Need?
Most adults need about 1,000 mg of calcium per day. However, the amount of calcium you need may be higher or lower depending on your age, gender, and other factors. It is important to talk to your doctor to make sure you are getting enough calcium to help prevent or treat osteoporosis.
Conclusion
When it comes to osteoporosis, calcium citrate is generally considered to be a better option than calcium carbonate. It is more easily absorbed by the body and is more effective at increasing bone mass and improving bone density. However, calcium carbonate is still a good option for those who are looking for a cheaper and more readily available form of calcium.
It is important to remember that the amount of calcium you need may vary depending on your age, gender, and other factors. Talk to your doctor to make sure you are getting enough calcium to help prevent or treat osteoporosis.