Support Bone Health With Calcium Carbonate

For patients unable to ingest the recommended amount of calcium through a normal diet, doctors will often prescribe a supplement like calcium carbonate. This is a highly effective, convenient, and inexpensive way to maintain bone strength.

The National Institute of Health recommends 1,000 to 1,500 mg of calcium per day for adults to promote strong teeth and bones, support the functioning of muscles and nerves, and assist in blood clotting. Many people find it difficult to take in enough calcium through diet alone, and smoking tobacco or drinking alcohol and caffeine can reduce absorption rates even more. It may be necessary to add a supplement, such as calcium carbonate, to ensure sufficient levels of calcium in the body are maintained.

Taking in plenty of calcium is only one factor in preventing bone loss as the body ages. A diet rich in magnesium, vitamin D, and vitamin K, together with necessary supplementation and a minimum of thirty minutes of weight-bearing activity three times per week, are other important parts of the equation.

Important Things to Know When Taking Calcium Carbonate

If you are prescribed calcium carbonate, it is important to tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking other medications, especially Lanoxin, Didronel, Dilantin, Sumycin, Tetracycline, or other supplements or vitamins. Calcium can bind with certain other medications and change the acidity of the stomach or urine, preventing absorption into the body and reducing the effectiveness of the medications. If you are currently taking any of these medications, your dose should not be taken within three hours of taking calcium carbonate. Be sure to let your doctor know if you experience any severe or long-lasting side effects.

You should also tell your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have ever had a kidney stone, or have parathyroid gland disease, because he may choose to change your dosage or not prescribe this supplement.

This supplement is marketed under a variety of brand names and is available over-the-counter. You should follow the directions of your doctor or pharmacist exactly, which may involve taking it several times per day with meals, or shortly after eating. Drink a full glass of water when taking this supplement in tablet or capsule form, and chew the chewable version of calcium carbonate supplements thoroughly before swallowing.

Calcium carbonate is a safe and effective way to ensure that you have plenty of calcium in your diet to keep your bones strong and healthy.