Cal-Mag (Capsules)

Cal Mag Supplement

Why Choose Cal-Mag In Capsule Form?

Are you shopping for a Cal-Mag supplement and unsure if you should get a tablet or capsule form? Let’s look at the advantages of a capsule. To begin, in very general terms, capsules are easier to swallow than tablets; especially for the elderly and those with dentures or who simply struggle with swallowing larger tablets. Capsules also do not have any taste or texture, which is not always the case with tablets. The only real downside of capsules versus tablets are that they are less stable and more sensitive to environmental factors and they are also typically more expensive.

Cal-Mag capsules are offered in a variety of iterations, from traditional gelatin-based capsules to veggie caps, liquid soft gels, powdered hard gels, and slow-release enteric-coated caplets. Each form has its advantages and drawbacks. Beyond the form of capsule, you’ll also want to pay attention to the types of calcium and magnesium in the formula you select; some of which such as calcium carbonate must be taken with food, while others like citrate, orotate, and chelates can be taken with or without food.

Cal-Mag Supplement Absorption

Generally, Cal-Mag capsules offer better bioavailability, which means that more of the active ingredients will be absorbed. However, this will also be a function of the form of calcium and magnesium in the formula and the quantity of elemental minerals each provides.

Cal-Mag Supplement Benefits

Cal-mag capsules are easier to swallow than tablets and are easier to digest. Capsules also have the added advantage of not containing tableting or binding agents.

Cal-Mag Capsule Storage

Cal-Mag capsules are more vulnerable to environmental factors than tablets. They should be protected from heat, light and moisture.

Cal-Mag Capsule Excipients

Most capsules use fillers. Some of the most common include magnesium stearate, silicon dioxide, titanium dioxide, microcrystalline cellulose, and stearic acid. These are common in encapsulated powders rather than liquids. Hypromellose and medium-chain triglycerides are more desirable excipients. Always read labels carefully to make an informed decision.

Cal-Mag Supplement Potency & Formats

Potency

Cal-Mag capsules are usually offered in either a 1:1 or 2:1 ratio, with most experts recommending the 2:1 ratio as the preferred choice. 2:1 Cal-Mag capsules are offered in different potencies, typically in the 100/50 - 500/250 mg calcium/magnesium range. Studies show; however, that Calcium/Magnesium should ideally be taken in divided doses throughout the day.

Formats

Cal-Mag capsules are available in two distinct forms: soft gels and hard gels. Soft gels usually have and a liquid oil base, while hard gels hold powdered ingredients. Because they are already in liquid form, liquid soft gels are absorbed rapidly and are easily digested. In addition, liquid soft gels don’t typically contain fillers like some powdered forms do.

Getting The Most Out Of Your Capsule Supplement

Check the label to find out what kind of calcium the supplement contains since certain forms must be taken with food to be absorbed, while others can be taken without food. Also, worth noting is that calcium is best absorbed when it's taken in smaller doses (typically 500- 600 mg at a time), so it’s best to take your Cal-Mag in divided doses.

Cal-mag supplements should be taken away from multivitamins because calcium can interfere with the body’s absorption of iron and zinc.