The Best Calcium Supplements of 2025: No Bones to Pick With These Top Brands

We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology. If you use our links to purchase something, we may earn a commission. Read our disclosures.

Performance Lab Calcium as best calcium supplements
Handful of Performance Lab calcium capsules.

On our mission to find the best calcium supplements, our crew of testers used good ol’ teamwork to divide and conquer, testing a variety of brands until we identified the top contenders out there. However, unless you’re actively suffering from osteoporosis, why take calcium supplements to begin with?

While approximately 98% of our body’s calcium1 is stored in our bones, we use calcium for more than just healthy bones. It also helps muscles—including our heart—to contract, transmits nerve impulses, and helps blood to clot. If calcium levels get too low to carry out these processes, the body starts to steal some from our bones, making them weak and increasing the risk of fractures.

RELATED: Best Joint Supplement

Once bone density is lost, it’s pretty hard to get it back, especially as we get older or become postmenopausal. This is why it’s important for even young and healthy individuals to make sure they consume enough calcium. If you aren’t getting enough from dietary sources, a calcium supplement can help. These are our picks for the best ones on the market. 

Medical disclaimer: This article is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. For health advice, contact a licensed healthcare provider.

The 6 Best Calcium Supplements of 2025

Best Calcium Supplement Overall: Performance Lab Calcium

Good for: Those looking for a calcium supplement backed by actual physicians

Best Calcium Supplement Overall
GGR Score
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.
4.5
Performance Lab Calcium
Vegan certified
Clean label
Ocean-sourced
Delivery subscription available
Vegan-friendly marine algae source
Tested for purity and safety
Plant-Based Source
Calcium derived from Icelandic red algae
Clean Formula
No GMOs, synthetic additives, or allergens
High Bioavailability
Natural source supports better absorption
Eco-Friendly
Sustainably harvested marine minerals
Plant-Based Athletes
Looking for a 100% vegan calcium option
Minimalist Users
Want a simple label with zero additives
Eco-Conscious
Prefer sustainable sources
Everyday Support
Good for consistent, low-dose intake
Pros
Vegan and clean-label
Algae-based calcium
Gentle on stomach
Eco-friendly source
Cons
Lower calcium dose
Premium price
Only calcium (no D or K)
Small brand visibility
Calcium Per Serving
300 mg
Source
Icelandic red algae
Capsules Per Bottle
60
Dosage
2 capsules daily
With its algae-sourced formula and vegan certification, Performance Lab Calcium is a niche pick with big appeal for plant-based users who want clean, traceable supplements.

Over 1,200 clinicians have endorsed Performance Lab Calcium as their chosen calcium supplement via FrontrowMD, according to the product page. Due to this impressive backing and the novel formulation, we crowned Performance Lab’s calcium supplement one as the best overall on this list, giving it a 4.5 out of 5 overall. 

The formulation, which we gave a 4.75 out of 5, contains calcium from both calcium malate and citrate. The latter form is generally more easily absorbed than other forms, like calcium carbonate. Calcium citrate is 21% elemental calcium and, because of its easy absorption, can be taken with or without food.

Performance Lab Calcium as best calcium supplements
Our tester holding Performance Lab Calcium bottle.

Furthermore, those who have low levels of stomach acid, such as older populations who can benefit the most from calcium supplements, should be able to tolerate Performance Lab’s calcium supplement. Finally, because of how much easier it is on the stomach than other types of calcium supplements, it is recommended for those with health conditions like irritable bowel syndrome2

RELATED: How to Improve Your Gut Health

Performance Lab notes that their calcium is third-party tested, but does not list who performs the testing. Either way, it is free of most common allergens, is non-GMO, and contains no artificial colors or preservatives. 

We did have to give this one a 3 out of 5 for swallowability, though. While the capsules themselves are pretty standard (about the length of a quarter), you do need to take three per serving, which is on the higher side, especially if you’re taking other supplements.

Price per serving$1.23
Serving formCapsule
Serving size3 capsules
Calcium per serving300 mg
Other key ingredientsNone
Available flavorsNone
Third-party testingYes, but the organization is not disclosed

Best Calcium Supplement for Bone Health: Thorne Advanced Bone Support

Good for: People looking for both calcium and Vitamin D for better bone support

Best Calcium Supplement for Bone Health
GGR Score
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.
3.7
Thorne Advanced Bone Support
Premium blend
Bone-focused
Lab tested
Auto-refill options available
Vegetarian capsule
NSF Certified
Bone Health Formula
Includes calcium, magnesium, vitamin D, and K2
Well-Absorbed Forms
Citrate-malate calcium, not carbonate
NSF Certified
Independently verified for sport safety
Full-Spectrum
Helps cover key bone-building nutrients
Active Adults
Prioritizing bone strength and performance
All-in-One Fans
Want a single supplement for bone health
Athletes
NSF certification makes it sport-safe
Wellness-Minded
Looking for a complete support system
Pros
NSF Certified
Balanced ingredient mix
Premium, bioavailable forms
Easy-to-swallow capsules
Cons
Higher price point
3–6 capsules daily
Not vegan
No iron or zinc included
Calcium Per Serving
250 mg
Other Nutrients
Includes magnesium, D, K2
Capsules Per Bottle
120
Dosage
3–6 capsules daily
Thorne Advanced Bone Support is a top-tier, third-party-tested pick that brings everything you want for stronger bones in one clean formula.

Thorne’s Advanced Bone Support calcium supplement is so named because it doesn’t just contain calcium, but also contains nutrients that can help support better bone density. For example, it contains 24% of your daily value of magnesium, a mineral that may lower the risk of pelvic and femoral fractures3 with adequate daily intake. 

Thorne also contains folate, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12, which research has shown may help reduce the risk of fractures4, even if they may not assist in increasing bone density. Finally, there’s 125% of the daily value of vitamin D3, a critical vitamin for optimal calcium absorption5. Given this comprehensive formulation, I rated Thorne a 5 out of 5 in this category. 

Thorne Calcium as best calcium supplements
Our tester holding Thorne Calcium capsules.

When I tried Thorne’s calcium supplement, I found the capsules fairly easy to swallow. They are bigger than other calcium supplements on this list that I’ve taken, so I had a little trouble, but there was nothing gag-inducing. So, I rated them a 4 out of 5 for swallowability.

For side effects, I rated Thorne Advanced Bone Support a 4 out of 5. I didn’t personally experience anything negative, but some customers on Amazon reported an upset stomach. 

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Price per serving$0.45
Serving formCapsule
Serving size2 capsules
Calcium per serving300 mg
Other key ingredientsVitamin D3, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, magnesium, boron
Available flavorsNone
Third-party testingNSF Certified

Best Vegan Calcium Supplement: ProHealth Ca AKG Supplement

Good for: Vegans who lack calcium-rich foods and require a high-dose calcium supplement

Best Vegan Calcium Supplement
GGR Score
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.
4
Pro Health Calcium AKG Longevity
AKG formula
Anti-aging focus
Unique blend
Vegetarian capsules
High calcium content
Lab tested for purity
Longevity Focus
Calcium alpha-ketoglutarate may support aging pathways
Clean Capsule
No added fillers, binders, or sweeteners
Niche Formula
Targets metabolic and bone health
Daily Support
Designed for long-term health routines
Aging Athletes
Interested in long-term bone and metabolic support
Supplement Hackers
Like unique, research-backed blends
Minimalist Stackers
Want one capsule that does more
Lifespan Optimizers
Looking for targeted, longevity-focused nutrients
Pros
Calcium AKG is unique
Longevity-focused formula
Clean and filler-free
Third-party tested
Cons
No vitamin D, K, or magnesium
Limited research on AKG in humans
Niche use case
Only 100 mg calcium
Calcium Per Serving
100 mg
Form
Calcium alpha-ketoglutarate
Capsules Per Bottle
100
Dosage
1 capsule daily
This isn’t your standard calcium supplement. With a longevity-focused formula built around calcium AKG, it’s best for users looking for more than bone support.

ProHealth Calcium supplement has the highest amount of calcium per serving of any supplement on this list. As I’ll discuss later, you want to watch how much calcium you get from supplements. However, for those who do not eat animal products, such as those who follow a vegan diet, a dose as high as 1,000 milligrams may be necessary. The ProHealth formulation earns a 4.5 out of 5.

ProHealth Calcium Supplement as best calcium supplements
Our tester holding ProHealth calcium supplements.

Many of the food sources highest in calcium—including dairy products and fish, such as sardines—are not suitable for a vegan diet. That’s where ProHealth can come in. It contains a special type of calcium called Ca-AKG, which ProHealth claims can reverse biological age by targeting the mitochondria. 

RELATED: Fight the Effects of Aging With the 8 Best Exercises For Seniors Over 75 At Home

While we can’t easily verify if this is accurate, we do know that the supplement has been tested for quality and potency. It is also manufactured in an FDA- and GMP-certified facility. For around $0.84 per serving, which earns it a 3.75 out of 5 for price per serving, it’s not a bad choice for those who may need higher doses of daily calcium. 

Our team gave ProHealth a 4 out of 5 for swallowability. These are pretty standard-sized capsules and you only need to take two per serving.

Price per serving$0.84
Serving formCapsule
Serving size2 capsules
Calcium per serving1 gram
Other key ingredientsNone
Available flavorsNo
Third-party testingTested for quality and potency

Best Budget Calcium Supplement: Nature Made Calcium

Good for: People who have no issues swallowing tablets and want a great value

Best Budget Calcium Supplement
GGR Score
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.
3.3
Nature Made Calcium and Vitamin D
Budget-friendly
Includes D3
Large count
Amazon shipping available
Vegetarian-friendly
USP verified
High Calcium Dose
600 mg of calcium plus 400 IU of vitamin D3
Long Supply
220 tablets per bottle
USP Certified
Meets independent quality standards
Affordable Price
One of the lowest costs per serving
Budget Buyers
Looking for solid quality at a low price
Combo Fans
Want both calcium and vitamin D in one
Daily Supplementers
Need a long-term, consistent option
Simplicity Seekers
Prefer tablets with basic, no-frills ingredients
Pros
USP verified for quality
Combines D3 and calcium
Budget-friendly
Widely available
Cons
Large tablet size
Not vegan
Basic formula
No added K2 or magnesium
Calcium Per Tablet
600 mg
Vitamin D
400 IU D3
Count
220 tablets
Dose
1–2 tablets daily
Nature Made delivers a budget-friendly and effective combo of calcium and vitamin D3 that’s easy to find and trusted by third-party labs.

Nature Made’s calcium supplement contains 50% of your daily value of vitamin D3 in addition to nearly 50% of your daily value of calcium in the form of calcium carbonate. Calcium carbonate is the cheapest and most common form and has approximately 40% elemental calcium. This means you can usually take a smaller serving and get more of the mineral. 

The downside is that calcium carbonate has also been shown to cause more unpleasant side effects, like bloating and constipation. However, these are usually mild and can be mitigated by taking carbonate with food, when it’s best absorbed6

That said, recent studies have concluded that for osteoporosis and bone health, a combination of vitamin D3 and calcium is more effective than calcium alone7.

Nature Made Calcium as best calcium supplements
Tester showing Nature Made Calcium.

I gave this formulation a 2 out of 5, mostly because I dislike the form of calcium carbonate and am not a fan of the extra ingredients it contains. I do like that it contains a robust amount of calcium at 600 milligrams and vitamin D. However, I’m concerned that the instructions tell you to take one to two tablets daily, as two tablets would give you 100% of the daily value. This means if you get any calcium from food that day, it could put you dangerously close to the upper limit. 

That said, I rated the Nature Made calcium supplement a 5 out of 5 for side effects based on my experience. I didn’t experience negative side effects and the reviews on Amazon rave about the effects this supplement has on healthy bones. 

Now for swallowability, I had to give it a 3 out of 5. These are tablets rather than capsules and happen to be a little larger than standard. If you’re a seasoned pill-taker, then you should be able to take these without issue. However, a baby like me had a problem. Luckily, you technically only have to take one to do the trick. 

RELATED: Best Multivitamin for Women

Price per serving$0.29
Serving formTablet
Serving size1-2 tablets
Calcium per serving600 mg
Other key ingredientsVitamin D3
Available flavorsNone
Third-party testingNo

Best Single-Ingredient Calcium Supplement: Pure Encapsulations Calcium

Good for: Those who want to buy a clean calcium supplement that will last several months

Best Single-Ingredient Calcium Supplement
GGR Score
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.
4
Pure Encapsulations Calcium Citrate
Gentle formula
Trusted brand
Easy on stomach
Ships via Amazon Prime
Vegetarian capsule formula
Independently tested
Clean Formula
Free from gluten, GMOs, and major allergens
Easy Digestion
Citrate form absorbs well with or without food
Trusted Brand
Widely used in clinical and practitioner settings
2 Capsules Daily
Provides 300 mg calcium per serving
Sensitive Stomachs
Those looking for a gentle and allergen-free formula
Low-Calcium Diets
Supports people not getting enough from food
Consistency Seekers
Looking for a no-fuss, reliable routine
Supplement Minimalis
Want just calcium, nothing else
Pros
Hypoallergenic and clean
Good absorption in citrate form
No unnecessary fillers
Clinician-trusted formula
Cons
Only 300 mg per serving
No vitamin D or K included
Slightly more expensive
Needs multiple pills for high dose
Calcium Per Serving
300 mg
Form
Calcium citrate
Capsules Per Bottle
180
Dosage
2 capsules daily
A clean and clinically respected option, Pure Encapsulations Calcium Citrate is a smart pick for those who want pure calcium in a gentle, well-absorbed form.

Pure Encapsulations’ Calcium supplement is an exciting find, as calcium citrate is often preferred among the different types of calcium supplements. It usually comes at a higher cost, but with Pure Encapsulations, you can get 300 milligrams of calcium citrate for only $0.34 per serving. Also, there are no other added ingredients, aside from the compounds that make up the vegetable capsule. 

With all of this simplicity, I gave the formulation a 4 out of 5. Even though I love the minimalism, I do wish it contained just a tiny bit more calcium for a perfect rating. That said, it’s still a solid steal for the price. 

Pure Encapsulations Calcium as best calcium supplements
Visual of Pure Encapsulations Calcium supplements.

I rated this supplement a 5 out of 5 for swallowability. When I opened the bottle, I felt so blessed to see tiny little pill capsules waiting for me. Even though the serving size is two capsules, I was able to take both at the same time with so much ease that I was impressed with myself.

As far as customer service, I rated it a 2 out of 5. Woof, this return policy is rough. Amazon does not accept returns due to food safety reasons. So, if you want to order from their website, be warned that Pure Encapsulations will only accept returns of supplements that have been unopened and only within 30 days of receipt.

RELATED: Pure Encapsulations BCAA Review

You also have to submit approval first to see if you’re eligible for a return. If you do get approval, they have to receive the product within 14 days and you will be charged a processing fee worth 15% of your total purchase. 

All in all, though, Pure Encapsulations is still a good choice to get your calcium needs met. 

Price per serving$0.34
Serving formCapsule
Serving size2 capsules
Calcium per serving300 mg
Other key ingredientsNone
Available flavorsNone
Third-party testingNo

Best Calcium Supplement With Vitamin K: Life Extension Bone Restore

Good for: Individuals looking to support bone health with a high-dose supplement

Best Calcium Supplement with Vitamin K
GGR Score
We test and review fitness products based on an independent, multi-point methodology.
4
Life Extension Bone Restore
Multi-mineral blend
Bone health focus
Great absorption
Autoship options available
Vegetarian capsules
Independently tested
Nutrient Combo
Contains calcium, D3, K2, zinc, magnesium
Soft Capsules
Easier on the stomach than tablets
K2 for Bone Health
Helps calcium go to the right places
Long-Term Use
Designed for daily support over time
Focused Lifters
Looking for comprehensive bone nutrition
K2 Seekers
Want K2 added for calcium metabolism
High-Volume Trainers
May benefit from added zinc and magnesium
Daily Supplementers
Committed to consistency and long-term health
Pros
Wide range of minerals
High absorption
Contains K2 and D3
Vegetarian-friendly
Cons
Multiple pills per serving
Not certified vegan
Pricier than basic options
Magnesium oxide isn’t best form
Calcium Per Serving
700 mg
Other Nutrients
K2, D3, magnesium, zinc
Capsule Count
120
Dosage
4 capsules daily
A strong pick for anyone wanting more than just calcium, Bone Restore covers a lot of nutritional ground for those focused on bone strength and longevity.

Life Extension Bone Restore not only contains vitamin K, but it also has vitamin D3 and magnesium, both of which play a role in aiding calcium to support healthy bones. But what’s the benefit of including vitamin K?

Some research suggests that calcium can help support heart health, but some studies also show that excess calcium from supplements can increase the risk of heart disease—specifically high blood pressure. Researchers believe this happens when excess calcium deposits end up in the arteries, where they can calcify and make blood vessels narrower. 

However, vitamin K2 has been known to prevent the hardening of arteries. It also plays a role in producing osteocalcin, a protein that works to build new bone tissue8. Essentially, not only can vitamin K2 help mitigate the potential negative effects of calcium supplements, but it can also help support the development of healthy bones. 

Life Extension Calcium Capsules
Our tester showing Life Extension Calcium.

With all of this in mind, I gave this formulation a 5 out of 5 because it includes micronutrients like vitamin K and contains four different types of calcium, including calcium citrate and calcium carbonate. Also, 700 milligrams of calcium per serving is pretty great if you need a lot of calcium from your supplement. 

Now, I had to rate these guys a 2 out of 5 for swallowability. These capsules are quite large by normal standards, so when I saw that the serving size was four capsules, my heart dropped. If I had to take these daily, I would have a large amount of difficulty, especially if I had to take other daily supplements in a pill or capsule form that morning. 

RELATED: Best Vitamin D Supplement

Furthermore, the first time I took these calcium supplements, I felt a bit of nausea. It wasn’t super disruptive, but it did take a bit to get over. When I checked the reviews on Amazon, I found that some reviewers also complained about stomach pain, so I rated them a 3 out of 5 for side effects. 

Price per serving$0.60
Serving formCapsule
Serving size4 capsules
Calcium per serving700 mg
Other key ingredientsVitamin D3, vitamin K, magnesium, zinc, manganese, boron, silicon
Available flavorsNone
Third-party testingNo

How We Picked and Tested the Best Calcium Supplements

Calcium is a common mineral that fills a lot of needs in supplement form, so there were plenty of brands to choose from. Here’s the criteria we used to narrow down the choices to our list of the best calcium supplements. 

Calcium Dosage

One of the most important features of a calcium supplement (or any new supplement for that matter) is that it has an adequate dosage of calcium. We included products with a range of potencies because some people may need more calcium from supplements than others. 

Thorne Calcium as best calcium supplements
Bottle of Thorne Calcium supplements.

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For those taking calcium supplements simply to fill some gaps in their diet, the brands on this list with lower doses are appropriate. However, certain populations such as women over the age of 50, vegans who do not consume dairy products, or people who have issues eating enough calcium-fortified foods in general may need higher doses.

Price

Daily supplements can be an expensive habit if you get carried away. That’s why it’s vital to choose brands that provide the best balance between price and quality. Considering this, we wanted to provide calcium supplement options that suit a wide range of budgets.

Customer Reviews and Side Effects

Unlike a multivitamin, which usually contains smaller amounts of multiple micronutrients, minerals like calcium that are taken in isolation have a higher chance of causing unpleasant side effects. These side effects usually affect the belly and gut area and are typically mild, but we wanted to choose brands that spare you from such treatment. 

So, not only did we test each of these products personally (as we’ve been known to do), we also scoured the customer reviews of verified buyers to see if there was any overwhelmingly negative feedback regarding side effects before making our recommendations. 

Benefits of Calcium Supplements

It can be useful to supplement with a key nutrient like calcium, especially if you cannot consume enough food sources of calcium for whatever reason. Not only are strong bones important for overall health, independence, and mobility, but they are also vital for active populations to prevent injury. So, let’s take a closer look at the benefits of getting enough calcium. 

Helps Prevent Bone Loss

As we’ve all been aware of since high school health class, calcium is key for strong bones. Though we should make an effort to get as much of our calcium intake as possible from food, sometimes this isn’t possible, especially if you have conditions like lactose intolerance or dairy allergies that can prevent you from eating traditionally high-calcium foods. 

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Furthermore, certain conditions like menopause can cause individuals to experience bone loss at a rapid rate that dietary consumption just can’t keep up with. That’s why it’s important to consume adequate calcium early, especially if you are a menstruating individual, to strengthen the bones before this occurs. 

Performance Lab Calcium as best calcium supplements
Handful of Performance Lab calcium capsules.

One meta-analysis found that women under the age of 35 showed improved bone density after taking a daily calcium supplement9. Another recent study showed that women who are already menopausal who begin taking calcium supplements may see a slower rate of bone loss (though it did not lower their risk of fractures10). 

Can Help Reduce High Blood Pressure

Some research has claimed that calcium supplementation can help reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition to sodium, magnesium, and potassium, calcium plays a key role in muscle contractions and relaxations, with the heart being the most important muscle of them all. 

One study showed that increased calcium intake lowered both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in young individuals without high blood pressure. Though the decrease was only about 2mmHg, study authors insist even this small change can lower the risk of a heart attack by 7% and the risk of a stroke by 10%11.

On the other hand, there are just as many studies, one following subjects for seven years, that show that calcium supplementation has no impact12 on the risk of high blood pressure. 

Finally, there is promising evidence that calcium can decrease the risk of pre-eclampsia, a life-threatening condition pregnant women can develop that’s characterized by dangerously high blood pressure. Pre-eclampsia can lead to premature birth, blunting of fetal growth, and even death of the mother. Studies13 show that supplementing with 500 milligrams of calcium carbonate daily could help prevent the development of pre-eclampsia in pregnant women. 

RELATED: Does Cardio Lower Blood Pressure? What the Research Says

Helps Reduce the Risk of Colon Cancer

Several studies have suggested that both calcium supplements and dietary calcium may lower the risk of colon cancer. One meta-analysis14 asserts that there is a 6% decrease in risk for every 300 milligrams of calcium consumed daily when taken alongside at least 100 IUs of vitamin D3.

May Support Weight Loss

Some studies have shown that low calcium intake has been associated with higher body fat percentage, especially when accompanied with low levels of vitamin D3. Some science has shown that combining these two supplements daily resulted in more weight loss in individuals with overweight and obesity15 than those who didn’t take the supplements. 

Nevertheless, the authors noted that because the weight loss was so insignificant—only a few pounds over 8 weeks to 2 years—it may not justify supplementing with calcium for the sole purpose of weight loss. 

Potential Side Effects

Calcium supplements are generally safe when taken as directed. However, in rare cases, some people may experience GI issues like constipation, gas, bloating, and nausea. Minerals in their supplement form are metals that technically aren’t meant to be absorbed by the gut, so that is the likely reason for these effects. 

If you take too much calcium (1,200 to 1,500 milligrams per day) you may also see an increased risk of kidney stones, high levels of calcium in the blood, and calcium buildup in the blood vessels that could increase the risk of high blood pressure. If you take iron supplements, you shouldn’t take them at the same time as calcium, as iron can block the absorption of calcium16

RELATED: Best Iron Supplement

You should also avoid taking calcium if you take medications for osteoporosis, antibiotics, diuretics, and certain thyroid medications. Always get medical advice from your healthcare provider before taking any dietary supplement. 

How Much Calcium Should I Take Per Day?

To understand the proper dosage for a good calcium supplement, let’s first look at the amount of calcium the National Institutes of Health recommends that each American takes on a daily basis. 

For women 50 and younger and men 70 and younger, the USDA recommends a daily intake of 1,000 milligrams of calcium. If you are a woman over the age of 50 or a man over the age of 70, your calcium needs are slightly higher at 1,200 milligrams per day.

Older adults require more calcium because they have a higher risk of osteoporosis, as the natural process of aging involves bone loss. Older women, in particular, are at an even higher risk of lower bone density due to menopause. 

Pure Encapsulations Calcium as best calcium supplements
Bottle of Pure Encapsulations Calcium.

Estrogen plays a huge role in maintaining bone health, and postmenopausal women experience a characteristic drop in estrogen after menopause occurs. What usually follows is bones that are less dense, which puts women at a higher risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures when compared to men. 

It is also possible to get too much calcium. The upper limit is 2,000 milligrams of calcium for adults over the age of 51 and 2,500 milligrams for those 50 and under, as established by the National Institutes of Health17

Going over these amounts can increase the risk of calcium toxicity, which can result in side effects like kidney stones, nausea, vomiting, constipation, iron and zinc malabsorption, and dangerously high calcium levels in the blood and soft tissues. 

This is why most calcium supplements do not contain 100% of the daily value of calcium (the 1,000 to 1,200 milligrams mentioned earlier). So, if your selected calcium supplement doesn’t have this amount, don’t write it off as a bad product. There are many dietary sources of calcium we may be consuming without realizing it, so we have to account for calcium-rich foods along with supplements to avoid potential toxicity. 

RELATED: The Best Zinc Supplements

With all of that in mind, most experts recommend taking only around 500 milligrams of calcium per day18 from supplements. Some may need a higher dose if they are older or already have existing bone health issues, but most individuals will want to stay around this number. Another critical reason is that elemental calcium from supplements is not as easily absorbed as dietary calcium, so getting more than this can result in GI issues and malabsorption. 

Here is a list of some high-calcium foods you can add to your diet if you want to increase your calcium intake without relying on supplements:

  • Dairy products like milk
  • Legumes
  • Tofu
  • Leafy greens
  • Fish
  • Tahini

Buying Guide: What to Look for in the Best Calcium Supplements

Anxious about purchasing the right product? Never fear. Keep these factors in mind as you search the labels on your next calcium supplement. 

Inclusion of Vitamin D3

While the inclusion of vitamin D3 is not a requirement, it definitely can serve as a tiebreaker if you’re struggling to decide between several choices. Ask any dietitian—the body cannot use or absorb calcium in any significant capacity if vitamin D is not present.

There are surprisingly few natural food sources of vitamin D. The most common sources are egg yolks and fish, but there isn’t much else. Most of the vitamin D we get comes from fortified foods like orange juice and breakfast cereals. This is one reason vitamin D supplements have recently risen in popularity. 

RELATED: Vitamin D3 Benefits: Beyond Bone Health

However, if you don’t eat these foods, you could be in trouble, especially if you’re a vegan who does not eat dairy, eggs, or fish. And if that’s the case, taking a calcium supplement is simply a waste of time and money. So, having vitamin D already included in your calcium supplement can save you a ton of hassle and provide peace of mind that you’re getting all that you need. 

Serving Size

To offer the proper amount of calcium, brands often house the mineral in larger-than-normal capsules and tablets. If this is the case with one particular supplement, it’s more ideal for you to not have to take 10 of the things each morning. So, assess how comfortable you are with taking large pills and let that, plus the serving size, affect your decision of which brand to buy. 

Form of Calcium

There are several forms of calcium supplements out there, with the most common being calcium citrate and calcium carbonate. Due to the nature of these forms of calcium, it’s important to select the one that’s right for you. 

Calcium citrate is usually the more expensive form, but it is the most optimally absorbed. This makes it appropriate for people who cannot take their calcium with food, have health conditions that result in a sensitive gut, or have low levels of stomach acid, which can negatively affect calcium absorption. 

Calcium carbonate, on the other hand, is a good choice if you’re working on a budget. It also contains more elemental calcium by volume, so you can take a smaller serving size. This form is ideal for those who have trouble swallowing pills. 

RELATED: The Best Vitamin Brands

FAQs About the Best Calcium Supplements

What is the most effective form of calcium supplement?

Calcium carbonate is the most effective form of calcium. It contains 40% elemental calcium, which means you can get a higher dose in a smaller serving. However, it can cause more side effects than other forms of calcium.

Which brand of calcium supplement is best?

After testing and evaluation, we determined that Performance Lab Calcium is the best calcium supplement. It is free of most common allergens and may be gentler on the stomach than other brands. However, individual needs vary, so it’s important to consult a physician to determine the best calcium supplement for you.

Which calcium is best for osteoporosis?

Calcium supplements that include vitamin D3 and other synergistic micronutrients are better for osteoporosis than those that contain calcium alone.

What is the fastest way to increase calcium?

Eating enough calcium-rich foods is the fastest way to increase calcium levels, as the body absorbs dietary sources of calcium better than calcium supplements. Contact a registered dietitian if you’re unsure how to identify high-calcium food sources.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

References

  1. Institute of Medicine (US) Committee to Review Dietary Reference Intakes for Vitamin D3 and Calcium, Ross AC, Taylor CL, Yaktine AL, Del Valle HB, eds. Dietary Reference Intakes for Calcium and Vitamin D3. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2011.
  2. Rondanelli M, Minisola S, Barale M, et al. Evaluating adherence, tolerability and safety of oral calcium citrate in elderly osteopenic subjects: a real-life non-interventional, prospective, multicenter study. Aging Clin Exp Res. 2024;36(1):38. Published 2024 Feb 12. doi:10.1007/s40520-024-02696-9
  3. Groenendijk I, van Delft M, Versloot P, van Loon LJC, de Groot LCPGM. Impact of magnesium on bone health in older adults: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Bone. 2022;154:116233. doi:10.1016/j.bone.2021.116233
  4. Bailey RL, van Wijngaarden JP. The Role of B-Vitamins in Bone Health and Disease in Older Adults. Curr Osteoporos Rep. 2015;13(4):256-261. doi:10.1007/s11914-015-0273-0
  5. Voulgaridou G, Papadopoulou SK, Detopoulou P, et al. Vitamin D and Calcium in Osteoporosis, and the Role of Bone Turnover Markers: A Narrative Review of Recent Data from RCTs. Diseases. 2023;11(1):29. Published 2023 Feb 8. doi:10.3390/diseases11010029
  6. Naciu AM, Tabacco G, Bilezikian JP, et al. Calcium Citrate Versus Calcium Carbonate in the Management of Chronic Hypoparathyroidism: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Crossover Clinical Trial. J Bone Miner Res. 2022;37(7):1251-1259. doi:10.1002/jbmr.4564
  7. Liu C , Kuang X , Li K , Guo X , Deng Q , Li D . Effects of combined calcium and Vitamin D3 supplementation on osteoporosis in postmenopausal women: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Food Funct. 2020;11(12):10817-10827. doi:10.1039/d0fo007
  8. Maresz K. Proper Calcium Use: Vitamin K2 as a Promoter of Bone and Cardiovascular Health. Integr Med (Encinitas). 2015;14(1):34-39.
  9. Liu Y, Le S, Liu Y, et al. The effect of calcium supplementation in people under 35 years old: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Elife. 2022;11:e79002. Published 2022 Sep 27. doi:10.7554/eLife.79002
  10. Bailey RL, Zou P, Wallace TC, et al. Calcium Supplement Use Is Associated With Less Bone Mineral Density Loss, But Does Not Lessen the Risk of Bone Fracture Across the Menopause Transition: Data From the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation. JBMR Plus. 2019;4(1):e10246. Published 2019 Nov 15. doi:10.1002/jbm4.10246
  11. Cormick G, Ciapponi A, Cafferata ML, Cormick MS, Belizán JM. Calcium supplementation for prevention of primary hypertension. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2022;1(1):CD010037. Published 2022 Jan 11. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD010037.pub4
  12. Margolis KL, Ray RM, Van Horn L, et al. Effect of calcium and Vitamin D3 supplementation on blood pressure: the Women’s Health Initiative Randomized Trial. Hypertension. 2008;52(5):847-855. doi:10.1161/HYPERTENSIONAHA.108.114991
  13. Gomes F, Ashorn P, Askari S, et al. Calcium supplementation for the prevention of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: current evidence and programmatic considerations. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2022;1510(1):52-67. doi:10.1111/nyas.14733
  14. Lopez-Caleya JF, Ortega-Valín L, Fernández-Villa T, Delgado-Rodríguez M, Martín-Sánchez V, Molina AJ. The role of calcium and Vitamin D3 dietary intake on risk of colorectal cancer: systematic review and meta-analysis of case-control studies. Cancer Causes Control. 2022;33(2):167-182. doi:10.1007/s10552-021-01512-3
  15. Cormick G, Ciapponi A, Harbron J, et al. Calcium supplementation for people with overweight or obesity. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2024;5(5):CD012268. Published 2024 May 9. doi:10.1002/14651858.CD012268.pub2
  16. Abioye AI, Okuneye TA, Odesanya AO, et al. Calcium Intake and Iron Status in Human Studies: A Systematic Review and Dose-Response Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials and Crossover Studies. J Nutr. 2021;151(5):1084-1101. doi:10.1093/jn/nxaa437
  17. Office Of Dietary Supplements – Calcium. NIH Office of Dietary Supplements
  18. Waldman T, Sarbaziha R, Merz CN, Shufelt C. Calcium Supplements and Cardiovascular Disease: A Review. Am J Lifestyle Med. 2015;9(4):298-307. doi:10.1177/1559827613512593

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