Maintaining a healthy body and mind is crucial specifically when we are growing in age. Best Calcium Supplements are vital health minerals that prevent osteoporosis and promote bone density. Sometimes it is impossible to get calcium from diet alone and we have to shift to outside supplements. Calcium deficiency occurs when there is not enough calcium-rich diet which results in body pain, tennis elbow, or joint pain. With numerous options in the marketplace, there are very few right choices. 

Role of Calcium in Metabolic Reactions

Calcium is a crucial supplement not only for bone health but also for muscle, nerve, and heart functioning. Blood clotting and cellular functions are another metabolic procedure where calcium plays an important role. 

1. Muscle Functioning- When a muscle is stimulated by a nerve, calcium is released in the interstitial space. It helps muscle fibers to contract and allow movement. 
2. Blood Clotting- After an injury occurs, Calcium starts an initial clotting reaction by forming Thrombin from Prothrombin.
3. Nerve Transmission- It helps in the transmission of nerve impulses by allowing neurotransmitters from nerve cells. It makes proper communication between body parts.
4. Cellular Functions- Regulation of enzyme activity, maintaining cellular membrane, and cell signaling are maintained by calcium. 
5. Heart Functioning- Calcium supports the cardiovascular system, and maintains heart regulation. It maintains normal blood pressure and ensures the proper functioning of heart muscles.  

Choosing Calcium Supplements 

Choosing the right option can be overwhelming, some supplements have low calcium content and others are not widely available. You can also take the help of a nutritionist but it is easy with small guidance to choose one for yourself.  

1. You have to check factors like easy absorption by the digestive system to avoid storage in fluids. 
2. Versatile intake will help you in providing flexibility in schedules. 
3. Some calcium supplements can cause gastrointestinal side effects like constipation, you have to observe your calcium deficiency symptom while taking calcium pills. 
4. Take higher dose compositions only if recommended because they may cause kidney and gallbladder stones. 
5. Calcium carbonate is a good option for you if you want budget-friendly pills and calcium hydroxyapatite is at the pricier side.

Best Calcium Supplements 

Effective calcium supplements contain higher levels of elemental calcium making a proper balance in the body, easy to digest. You have to check their availability but almost all adjuncts are widely accepted by pharmacies.  

1. Calcium Carbonate

It is one of the most commonly used supplements and contains around 40% of elemental calcium. It is an affordable option and an efficient source of minerals. Also, it is derived from natural resources like oyster shells, limestone and detritus underwater. 

• You have to take fewer pills as this supplement has higher elemental calcium and is also easily available. 
• You can use its diverse compositions also which are available in natural form by soaking them in water. However, it is good to take a prescription before the oral use of any medications. 

Considerations- Calcium carbonate should be taken with food because it requires stomach acid, some people may feel, gas, constipation and bloating while taking it. 

2. Calcium Citrate

Calcium Citrate is next on the list of best calcium supplements and it has a 21% elemental additive. It is easily available and derived from citric acid thus bioavailability is high. It is easily absorbed by the digestive system and that’s why it can be a good option for older people. 

• It can be taken without food. 
• If you are recommended for less supply calcium citrate is a good option.

Considerations- Common gastric problems like constipation may be a problem while you are taking calcium citrate. You may need to take more pills as there is less percentage of calcium. 

3. Calcium Gluconate

This supplement contains 9% of primordial calcium composition. It is derived from fruits like Pomegranate compounds and it is injectable. Calcium Gluconate is used as an emergency supply for patients who can’t swallow pills. 

• A good option for a quick calcium boost and is taken by various routes.  
• Do not create digestive issues. 

Considerations- Low calcium content and it is better to explore other options if you need high calcium. 

4. Calcium Lactate

It is less common in pharmacy stores and has 13% of calcium components. It is a good option for children and people who have digestive issues. It is a chemical modification of lactic acid with calcium. 

• It is the best option for children as they can digest lactose easily. 
• Gastric ulcer patients and people with sensitive stomachs can take it as a versatile alternative. 

Considerations- Do not meet with daily calcium supplies and are not widely available as other recourses. 

Calcium Hydroxyapatite

Calcium Hydroxyapatite has a similar composition to human bones. It has a phosphorous mineral composition like teeth and bones in class Animalia. It is the best supplement to work on destroyed bone structure. 

• Excellent option for bone development and helps patients cope with fracture healing. 
• Increase bone density in weeks. 

Considerations- It is more expensive than other options like calcium carbonate. 

Summary

You have to select the best calcium supplement based on your needs. Remember to maintain a balanced diet as calcium is not only a bone framework it also helps in nerve supply mechanism. Higher levels can cause precipitation in the body forming stones, so you have to consult a doctor before having calcium as an external supplement.