Calcium (Carbonate Aspartate & Citrate) 500 mg
Swanson Premium Brand
Calcium (Carbonate Aspartate & Citrate) 500 mg
4.8
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(307 ratings)
Calcium 500 mg
Score 65.0
An affordable calcium supplement providing 500mg from a blend of forms, including bioavailable ones, but critically lacks Vitamin D3 for optimal absorption.
Quantity: 100 Tablet(s)Servings size: 1 Tablet(s) (100 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Bone Health
Heart Health
Joint Health
Muscle Gain
Fitness
leaderboard Score 65.0
An affordable calcium supplement providing 500mg from a blend of forms, including bioavailable ones, but critically lacks Vitamin D3 for optimal absorption.
insights Analysis
Swanson Premium Brand's Calcium supplement provides 500mg of elemental calcium from a combination of Calcium Ascorbate, Citrate, and Carbonate, aiming to offer varied absorption profiles. Calcium Citrate is generally well-absorbed, even without food, making this a more versatile option than pure calcium carbonate. However, a significant deficiency is the absence of Vitamin D3, a fundamental nutrient that facilitates calcium absorption in the gut and its proper incorporation into bones. Without D3, a substantial portion of the ingested calcium may not be effectively utilized by the body, limiting its overall efficacy for bone and general health, despite its attractive price point.
- Very affordable price per serving.
- Includes a blend of calcium forms, including the more bioavailable calcium citrate and ascorbate.
- Does not contain Vitamin D3, which is essential for calcium absorption.
- May require separate D3 supplementation for optimal benefits.
$4.89($0.04 per serving)
 iHerb | $ 4.89 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
Yes, vitamin D is essential for the effective absorption of calcium in the intestines. Without sufficient vitamin D, the body cannot absorb calcium properly, even if calcium intake is adequate. This partnership is crucial for maximizing calcium's benefits for bone health.
Adequate calcium intake, especially when combined with sufficient vitamin D, is important for bone health and may help reduce the risk of osteoporosis. It provides the necessary minerals for bone density. However, it's one of several factors in osteoporosis prevention and management.
Calcium is a primary mineral component of bones and teeth. Adequate intake is essential for maintaining bone density throughout life and plays a crucial role in bone formation and remodeling. Consistent supply helps support strong skeletal structure.
Calcium is a crucial mineral for maintaining strong bones throughout life, acting as a primary building block for bone tissue. Adequate calcium intake helps to support and maintain bone density. It is essential for the continuous remodeling process of bones.
Calcium, especially when combined with vitamin D, is an important nutrient for maintaining bone health. Consistent intake helps support bone density, which can contribute to reducing the risk of osteoporosis. However, it is one factor among many in preventing this condition.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
For most adults aged 19-50, the recommended daily intake of calcium is typically 1,000 mg. This recommendation may vary slightly based on age, gender, and life stage, such as during adolescence or older adulthood.
The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for most adult men and women aged 19-50 years is 1,000 mg per day. For women over 50 and all adults over 70, the RDA increases to 1,200 mg per day. These recommendations include calcium from both food and supplements.
The two most common forms of calcium in supplements are calcium carbonate and calcium citrate. Calcium carbonate is generally more affordable and contains a higher percentage of elemental calcium, while calcium citrate is well-absorbed with or without food.
Yes, calcium supplements can interact with certain medications, including some antibiotics, thyroid hormones, and bisphosphonates. It is generally advised to take calcium supplements at a different time of day from these medications to avoid interference with absorption. Always consult a healthcare professional about potential interactions.
Calcium carbonate is the most common and inexpensive form, containing 40% elemental calcium, and is best taken with food for optimal absorption. Calcium citrate contains 21% elemental calcium, can be taken with or without food, and may be better for individuals with low stomach acid. Your specific needs may influence which form is more suitable.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Yes, calcium supplements can interact with several medications, potentially affecting their absorption or efficacy. These include certain antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones), thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine), bisphosphonates, and some diuretics. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist regarding potential interactions with any medications you are taking.
Yes, calcium supplements can interact with several medications, potentially affecting their absorption or efficacy. These include certain antibiotics (e.g., tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones), thyroid hormones (e.g., levothyroxine), bisphosphonates, and some blood pressure medications. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional regarding potential interactions and timing of doses.
Common side effects of calcium supplements may include constipation, bloating, and gas. These effects are usually mild and can sometimes be alleviated by adjusting the dosage or type of calcium, or by taking the supplement with food. If side effects persist, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended.
Yes, excessive intake of calcium, especially from supplements, can lead to hypercalcemia, a condition where calcium levels in the blood are too high. Symptoms can include nausea, vomiting, confusion, and kidney problems. Adhering to the Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL) for calcium, which varies by age, is important.
Vitamin D plays a crucial role in helping the body absorb calcium from the gut. Therefore, adequate vitamin D levels are essential for calcium to be utilized effectively by the body for bone health. Many calcium supplements include vitamin D to enhance this absorption.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Calcium | 500 mg |
Categories
Calcium 70.0
Provides 500mg of elemental calcium from a blend of forms, including bioavailable ones, offering a solid base for daily calcium intake.
Goals
Bone Health 70.0
Provides a good dose of elemental calcium (500mg) from various forms, including more bioavailable ones like citrate. However, it significantly lacks Vitamin D3, a critical co-factor for optimal calcium absorption and bone mineralization, limiting its effectiveness for comprehensive bone support on its own.
Fitness 65.0
Adequate calcium intake supports muscle contraction and nerve function crucial for fitness. The multi-form blend is a plus, but the lack of D3 slightly hinders overall efficacy for bone strength which is important for fitness.
Heart Health 60.0
Calcium is essential for cardiac function, but balance is key. The blend of forms is a positive, but without Vitamin D3 and K2, there's no assurance of calcium being directed primarily to bones, which could be a concern for arterial health over long-term high dose intake.
Recommended Alternatives
85 Value 
Calcium Magnesium Zinc + D3
21st Century
4.7
★★★★★
(97627 ratings)
Delivers a multi-mineral bone support formula including calcium, magnesium, zinc, and D3 at an incredibly low price, offering excellent value for comprehensive bone health.
90 Value 
600 + D3 plus Minerals
21st Century
4.8
★★★★★
(1551 ratings)
Provides calcium carbonate with D3 and a blend of essential trace minerals crucial for bone health, all at an outstanding value, making it a highly effective and affordable choice.
88 Value 
Calcium + Vitamin D
Swisse Ultiboost
4.6
★★★★★
(1270 ratings)
Combines calcium citrate (for better absorption) and calcium carbonate with Vitamin D, offering a balanced and effective formula at a very reasonable price point.
96 Performance 
Calcium Bone Maker Complex with MCH-Cal and VitaMK7
Doctor's Best
4.7
★★★★★
(6735 ratings)
Utilizes MCH-Cal (Microcrystalline Hydroxyapatite), a superior form of calcium, complemented by Vitamin D3, K2, and other vital bone minerals, offering a far more comprehensive and bioavailable solution.
98 Performance 
Raw Calcium
Garden of Life Vitamin Code
4.6
★★★★★
(4135 ratings)
A highly comprehensive plant-based calcium formula including D3, K2, magnesium, and trace minerals, designed for optimal bone density and overall skeletal health.
93 Performance 
Liquid Cal/Mag/Zinc Natural Strawberry Flavor
Trace Minerals
4.4
★★★★★
(1954 ratings)
Offers calcium, magnesium, and zinc in highly absorbable liquid forms, coupled with Vitamin D3, providing a synergistic and bioavailable approach to bone and mineral support.
50 Budget 
600 Calcium Supplement
21st Century
4.7
★★★★★
(4047 ratings)
Offers a basic calcium carbonate option at a significantly lower price per serving, ideal for budget-conscious consumers seeking fundamental calcium intake.
80 Budget 
600+D3
21st Century
4.8
★★★★★
(6905 ratings)
Provides calcium carbonate with the essential addition of Vitamin D3 at a lower cost per serving, improving absorption and overall bone health support compared to calcium alone.
70 Budget 
Calcium 500+D3
21st Century
4.8
★★★★★
(5027 ratings)
A very cost-effective calcium supplement from oyster shell, combined with Vitamin D3 for improved absorption, making it a compelling cheaper alternative.
85 Value
Calcium Magnesium Zinc + D3
21st Century
4.7
★★★★★
(97627 ratings)
Delivers a multi-mineral bone support formula including calcium, magnesium, zinc, and D3 at an incredibly low price, offering excellent value for comprehensive bone health.
90 Value
600 + D3 plus Minerals
21st Century
4.8
★★★★★
(1551 ratings)
Provides calcium carbonate with D3 and a blend of essential trace minerals crucial for bone health, all at an outstanding value, making it a highly effective and affordable choice.
88 Value
Calcium + Vitamin D
Swisse Ultiboost
4.6
★★★★★
(1270 ratings)
Combines calcium citrate (for better absorption) and calcium carbonate with Vitamin D, offering a balanced and effective formula at a very reasonable price point.
96 Performance
Calcium Bone Maker Complex with MCH-Cal and VitaMK7
Doctor's Best
4.7
★★★★★
(6735 ratings)
Utilizes MCH-Cal (Microcrystalline Hydroxyapatite), a superior form of calcium, complemented by Vitamin D3, K2, and other vital bone minerals, offering a far more comprehensive and bioavailable solution.
98 Performance
Raw Calcium
Garden of Life Vitamin Code
4.6
★★★★★
(4135 ratings)
A highly comprehensive plant-based calcium formula including D3, K2, magnesium, and trace minerals, designed for optimal bone density and overall skeletal health.
93 Performance
Liquid Cal/Mag/Zinc Natural Strawberry Flavor
Trace Minerals
4.4
★★★★★
(1954 ratings)
Offers calcium, magnesium, and zinc in highly absorbable liquid forms, coupled with Vitamin D3, providing a synergistic and bioavailable approach to bone and mineral support.