Cal-Mag (Capsules) Supplements

Exploring the Source: What is Algae Calcium?

Convinced that the only way to get calcium in your diet is to drink milk and eat cheese and yogurt? Think again. While dairy products, including milk, yogurt and cheese, are indeed rich sources of calcium, it is also found in dark-green leafy vegetables, dried peas and beans, and fish with bones (like sardines). Seaweed; specifically red ocean algae, is another rich source of calcium. And plant-based, algae-derived calcium comes combined with its own arsenal of nutrients such as iron, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, potassium, boron, zinc, and over 30 other minerals.

Few, if any foods, contain as broad a range of minerals as red ocean algae. This is important because bones need a lot more than just calcium to maintain strength and density across the lifespan. In fact, a study out of Asia found that women who ate seaweed 2-3 times per week had a significantly lower risk of developing osteoporosis. Why is this? Well, it’s believed that algae calcium mimics the mineral composition of human bones, both in quantity and variety, so comes already equipped with all the necessary nutrients to build and maintain strong bones. That’s probably the biggest distinction between supplements made from calcium algae and the more common rock-based calcium supplements - they typically need to be combined with other key bone nutrients to offer comparable support to bones, teeth, and joints.

The Health Advantages of Algae Calcium

Traditional rock-based calcium supplements are hard to absorb as is. In contrast, algae calcium comes combined with its natural partner, magnesium, as well as other critical trace minerals, and is easily absorbed inside the body. Another interesting thing about algae calcium is that because algae draws calcium and other minerals from seawater to meet their own metabolic needs, these minerals are “predigested”, which greatly enhances their bioavailability (making them easily absorbable by the body). While this is certainly a considerable advantage, it’s important to note that algae calcium is still in the less desirable calcium carbonate form, and may cause GI side effects such as gas, bloating, constipation, and burping.

Algae-Cal: Potency and Available Formats

Algae Calcium Potency

Algae calcium formulas are not sold in ratios like other forms of calcium, since magnesium is already included in the algae. However, many formulas add additional magnesium (typically in oxide form) to balance out the ratio, as well as often add other bone-building nutrients. Algae calcium supplements are available in a wide range of potencies from 250 mg, all the way up to 1000 mg.

Algae Calcium Formats

Algae calcium supplements are offered in tablets, gelatin capsules, and in veggies caps, making the formulas 100% vegan.

Maximizing Benefits: Tips for Algae Calcium Supplementation

Algae calcium naturally provides all the bone-building nutrients together, in a balance similar to what is found in healthy human bone. Because algae calcium supplies calcium carbonate that needs stomach acid to be digested and absorbed, it’s important to take your supplement with food. Some medications should not be taken at the same time as algae calcium such as; thyroid medication, antacids, and certain antibiotics. Therefore, it is best to speak to your health care practitioner if you are taking medications and if cleared, take algae calcium at least 3-4 hours before or after taking medications.

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