If it hadn’t been for calcium, your bones and teeth would have broken at the slightest touch. Now you can see how important this mineral is. Besides strengthening your teeth and bones, calcium also helps in clotting blood, maintain muscle flexibility and makes your heart beat (heart muscles need calcium for contraction).
Our bodies are incapable of synthesizing calcium. On top of that, we lose calcium through our skin, hair, sweat, etc. This loss can be held at bay by ingesting calcium rich foods like:
- Dairy products like milk, cheese and yoghurt
- Dark green vegetables such as a kale, spinach, and broccoli
- White beans
- Sardines
- Calcium-fortified breads, cereals, soy products, and orange juices
You may have to consume calcium supplements if the calcium deficiency is too severe. Vitamin D is essential to promote better absorption of calcium and enhances calcium’s vital roles. It can be obtained through sunlight and dairy products.
Daily Calcium requirements
Calcium requirement is solely dependent on your age and gender. If you exceed or go below the daily range, you are bound to face significant health problems.
Calcium: Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for adults
What happens if the Calcium levels are not maintained?
Low calcium in blood or hypocalcemia causes the following:
- Osteopenia (reduces level of calcium in bones)
- Osteoporosis (Makes bones thinner and leads to fractures)
- Dental problems
- Painful Menstrual Syndrome (PMS)
- Brittle nails and eczema (formation of skin blisters, itchiness)
- Muscle aches and cramps
- Fatigue
High calcium in blood or hypercalcemia leads to the following:
- Damage kidneys, form kidney stones
- Abnormal heartbeat
- Confusion, dementia
- Osteoporosis (the calcium leached from your bones naturally increases the level of calcium in blood)
What are calcium supplements and who should consume them?
Calcium supplements are remedies for maintaining calcium levels in the body. They come in various forms like: tablets, capsules, chews, liquids and powders.
These supplements may contain calcium in the form of calcium carbonate and calcium citrate.
Calcium supplements are a necessity if you don’t get enough of it from your diet. It is useful for older women. You might also consider these supplements if you are vegan.
These supplements are absolutely fine in small doses. Beware of the harmful effects of consuming too many at a time.
Do calcium supplements have risks?
You need to understand that calcium tablets aren’t for everyone and anyone. A doctor’s prescription is a must. If you have hypercalcemia (excess calcium in your bloodstream) then these supplements are a big no-no. There is mixed evidence of calcium supplements causing heart disease. The same blurriness is visible in the case of calcium and prostate cancer. It is always better to ask your doctor what is best for you.
Here is a list of some of the best calcium supplements (tablets) available in India…
1.TrueBasics Advance Calcium with Vitamin D3
One can never go wrong with this calcium tablet from HealthKart. The tablet is known for improving bone density and provides the right amount of calcium to the body. Calcium citrate and 100% RDA of vitamin D3 are responsible for the function mentioned above. Apart from this, the tablet also comprises of herbal extracts like Alfalfa and Moringa which help in mineralizing the bones.
Buy Now!2. Himalayan Organics Organic Calcium Complex
These 100% organic tablets come with no potential risk to its consumers. With regular consumption, the tablets are sure to improve flexibility and mobility of both muscles and bones. Muscle functioning and hormonal support can also be enhanced.
Buy Now!3. Naturyz Calcium plus tablets for men
Consuming 1-2 tablets per day is more than enough to enhance and maintain: muscle and joint flexibility, bone and teeth health, functioning of nerves, muscles and cells. You can blindly rely on this brand for its high quality products.
Buy Now!4. Corcal Bone and Beauty the best Calcium tablets for Women
Made from 100% organic coral grains, these tablets are a woman’s best friend. This calcium supplement is loaded with minerals like gold, silver, zinc, iron, and selenium that have the potential to deliver many benefits. The tablets help in reducing hair fall, maintain glowing skin and improve the quality of nails.
5. GNC Calcium Citrate 1000 MG with Magnesium and Vitamin D3
One of the best alternatives for vegetarian users, this supplement helps in making the bones and teeth stronger, mineralizes bones and can also reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Heart problems and regular fractures can also be minimized. The tablet’s natural ingredients help in delivering the above benefits in the best possible manner.
Buy Now!6. HealthKart Calcium Tablets: Best Calcium Tablets in India
Another one from HeathKart, the tablet is guaranteed to live up to its brand. Enriched with calcium and vitamin D3, it helps in improving bone health and density, enhancing joint mobility and maintaining teeth health. 1-2 capsules a day are enough to get the desired benefits.
Buy Now!7. Carbamide Forte Alfalfa Calcium Citrate Malate 1200mg with Cissus
This tablet is absorbed 2.5 times faster than any other source of calcium. Apart from enhancing the bones and muscles, the tablet prevents bloating and long-term calcium deposits. It also reduces tiredness and improves immunity. It contains vitamins A, C, E, D, K4 and minerals like zinc and magnesium.
Buy Now!8. Amway Nutrilite Cal Mag D Advanced
Manufactured by the global marketing giant Amway, the tablets offer all the benefits of Calcium, Magnesium and Vitamin D. The calcium is lesser than the average size which in turn lets customers customize their calcium needs accurately.
Buy Now!9. Solaray Calcium Magnesium Zinc
Solaray’s calcium tablet is a little on the expensive side. The tablet guarantees to improve overall health and enhances the quality of bones, muscles and teeth. It also takes care of common nutrient deficiencies.
Buy Now!10. Citracal Calcium + D3, Slow Release
The slow release formula of this calcium supplement helps in careful absorption and assimilation of its constituents. Bayer is the manufacturer of this tablet and claims that the product offers superior absorption as compared to others.
Buy Now!