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Mineral · in-depth review

Calcium Chloride

Calcium Chloride

Calcium chloride is used to supplement calcium (chloride).

Also known asNo common aliases yet
Related symptomsMuscle crampsPMS symptoms

Chloride

Calcium chloride is a chloride salt with high water solubility, common in liquids and sports electrolytes. The use is to supply calcium ions; chloride itself also has a role in stomach acid and fluid balance.

Bone mineralization

Calcium chloride is a source of calcium. Calcium makes up hydroxyapatite and is absorbed with vitamin D. This salt supplies elemental calcium; after adulthood, calcium alone cannot reverse an established osteoporotic image.

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With foodCalcium carbonate with a meal (not on an empty stomach); calcium citrate may be taken on an empty stomach or with food
Best timeSplitting the dose between morning and evening is usually easier to absorb

A single serving is usually best kept to about 500 mg of elemental calcium.

General wellnessAdults 19–50: 1,000 mg elemental calcium/day; women 51 and older and all adults 71 and older: 1,200 mg/day
Specific needsTreatment doses for osteoporosis or deficiency must be set by a doctor based on diet, vitamin D, and bone testing. The usual adult upper limit for total intake is 2,000–2,500 mg/day.

How oftenPrefer food first and make up any gap from the product label; the usual adult total upper limit is 2,500–2,000 mg/day, depending on age.

Cautions

People with kidney stones, high blood calcium, kidney disease, or parathyroid disease should ask a doctor first.

Take calcium supplements apart from iron, levothyroxine, and some antibiotics.

Common side effects

· Constipation

· Stomach discomfort

Rare but important

· Long-term excess may raise the risk of high blood calcium or kidney stones.

Long-term dependenceNot addictive; long-term excess may cause mineral imbalance or kidney stones.

Medical disclaimerThis page is compiled by the HerbBB editorial team for general health information only. It is not a substitute for advice from a doctor, pharmacist, or other qualified clinician. If you have a health condition, take medicines, or are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak with a professional first.