A recent meta-analysis conducted at the University of Auckland in New Zealand and published in the British Medical Journal states that taking calcium supplements do nothing. The study goes on to say that there is no link that calcium supplements or even dietary calcium is of any benefit. How can this be when there are dozens of studies to the contrary?

The calcium used in these negative studies was always calcium carbonate or ground up rocks. In those over the age of 50 this form of calcium is almost impossible to absorb. This would account for the lack of beneficial response. Unfortunately the study does not make a differentiation between one forms of calcium over another. In order for calcium to be absorbed and hence have benefit, it must be acidified. For example we use a combination of calcium citrate and calcium malate to help ensure absorption. Further to that we also include all the key trace minerals shown to further enhance calcium uptake. I have always said that all calcium supplements are not equal. The inexpensive products sold in drug stores and “warehouses” are almost always calcium carbonate with no supportive nutrients added – hence the lack of absorption.

The study goes on to say that taking these calcium supplements may be harmful and deposit in the arteries and the kidneys – again only if the calcium is alkaline and without supportive nutrients. I have spent 30+ years educating folks about the need for total nutrition and the possible downside of fragmenting by taking only a few nutrients in the absence of others. This is one example of this.

Fragmenting nutrition has a host of side effects, which is why we have made our Full Spectrum formulas that contain all the known nutrients the body needs on a daily basis. If you should have any further questions about the calcium cover up just call my office at 1-619-507-2113 and to learn more about calcium absorption stop by next month for calcium absorption and bone health in women over 50.