ADVERTISEMENT

Mineral · in-depth review

Calcium Sulfate

Calcium Sulfate

Calcium sulfate is used to supplement calcium (inorganic sulfate).

Also known asNo common aliases yet
Related symptomsMuscle crampsPMS symptoms

Inorganic sulfate

Calcium sulfate is an inorganic sulfate salt. The elemental fraction is relatively high, water solubility is fair, and gut irritation is more noticeable. Taking it with food can ease discomfort. What it supplies is the physiology of calcium itself.

Bone mineralization

Calcium sulfate 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.

ADVERTISEMENT
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.