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Top 8 Best Calcium Citrate Supplements for Osteoporosis

Written by Andrew Le, MD

UpdatedOctober 23, 2024

Calcium citrate is a type of supplement that is given to individuals to improve their calcium intake. Calcium is one of the most important minerals that is needed in our body for strong bones and teeth, and calcium citrate is one form of calcium that is easily absorbed by the body. Calcium citrate supplements are helpful for patients with osteoporosis and may be taken as a part of the treatment plan.


After evaluating different products, we spent several hours trying to find the best calcium citrate supplements for people with osteoporosis. Keep on reading to discover which product is more suitable for you.


Citracal Slow Release 1200

Editor's Choice

Citracal Slow Release 1200

Citracal Slow Release 1200 offers effective bone health support with its blend of Calcium Carbonate and Citrate, along with Vitamin D3 and Magnesium. For those seeking a reliable calcium supplement, especially considering its effective calcium forms, this product is a recommended choice.

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If you are in need of a supplement that can contribute to the maintenance of your bones, then Citracal Slow Release 1200 is good for you.

Pros

  • The sugar-free formula is easy to absorb and gentle on the stomach.
  • The Slo-Cal Technology ensures that the calcium and vitamin D3 are slowly and continuously released for efficient absorption.
  • Citracal Slow Release 1200 contains a blend of Calcium Carbonate and Citrate, Vitamin D3, and Magnesium to help achieve optimal bone health.

Cons

  • The caplets are quite large and may be difficult to swallow for some people.
  • Exposure to heat or sunlight may lead to melting/damage of the product.
  • Some people may not like the fact that it contains Acacia, Croscarmellose Sodium, and Talc.

For the past few months, we have been taking Citracal Slow Release 1200, and we are satisfied with the outcome. The caplets are very convenient to use, and the patient does not experience any discomfort in the stomach. We take into consideration that the formula has both Calcium Carbonate and Citrate, which are among the best forms of calcium. Vitamin D3 and Magnesium are also included to support healthy bones and keep them as strong as possible.

It is also important to note that the caplets are quite large and could be problematic to some people especially when swallowing. Furthermore, it is recommended that the product must be kept in a cool and dry area in order to avoid melting or other forms of damage.

All in all, it would be preferable to suggest Citracal Slow Release 1200 to anyone seeking a quality calcium supplement that is beneficial for bone health.


SOLARAY Calcium Citrate Supplement

SOLARAY Calcium Citrate Supplement

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If you want a calcium citrate supplement that will not have a negative impact on your digestive processes, SOLARAY Calcium Citrate Supplement can be the best bet.

Pros

  • Enhanced absorption and utilization
  • Delicious natural orange flavor
  • Eco-friendly packaging

Cons

  • Strange alcohol-like aftertaste
  • Huge chewables
  • Only 15 doses in a bottle of 60

SOLARAY Calcium Citrate Supplement is quite easy to use and it tastes like fresh orange naturally, which we have taken and tested. It contains chelated calcium which is attached to natural citric acid for better absorption by the body and will not cause any problems with digestion. We acknowledge that the packaging is environmentally friendly in the sense that the bottles are 100% PCR bottles derived from plastics recovered from oceans and landfills.

Nevertheless, we also experienced an odd, even alcoholic taste, which some consumers might not find enjoyable. The chewables also seem to be very large and may prove to be a challenge for some people to swallow. Further, there are only 15 doses of 1000 mg in a 60 bottle, which is inadequate for people who have to take calcium regularly.

All in all, if you are looking for easy on digestion calcium citrate supplement, then SOLARAY Calcium Citrate Supplement can be recommended for usage. Of course, if issue with your sensitivity to the taste or you prefer not to swallow big pills, then it may be better to try something else.


Earth's Splendor Bone Health Support

Earth's Splendor Bone Health Support

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We definitely endorse ‘Earth’s Splendor’ Bone Health Support calcium citrate supplement for anyone who needs a calcium supplement for bone support.

Pros

  • Provides 600mg of calcium per tablet
  • Includes vitamin D3 to aid in calcium absorption
  • Lab-tested for quality and safety

Cons

  • Some users may need to take two tablets per day for optimal calcium intake
  • May not be suitable for those with certain dietary restrictions
  • Some users may experience mild digestive discomfort

We have been using Earth’s Splendor Bone Health Support for several months now and really pleased with the results in our bone health. We are grateful for calcium with vitamin D3, which enables us to have strong bones and avoid developing osteoporosis.

The tablets provide easy swallowing, which is beneficial when taking one to two tablets as suggested for daily intake. We also like the fact that this supplement is tested in a laboratory for quality assurance and is safe to consume, so we are assured of a good quality product.

Some negative effects of the product might include mild digestive discomforts, which we haven’t come across. But we strongly encourage anyone who intends to add new supplements to their diet to seek advice from a doctor.

In a nutshell, we strongly endorse Earth’s Splendor Bone Health Support as the best calcium citrate supplement that will make a wonderful addition to anyone’s supplement cabinet.


Bluebonnet Calcium Citrate Plus Vitamin D3 Caplets

Bluebonnet Calcium Citrate Plus Vitamin D3 Caplets

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We highly recommend Bluebonnet Calcium Citrate Plus Vitamin D3 Caplets for those who want to consume high-quality supplements that can help with the development of bone.

Pros

  • Contains 1000 mg of Calcium Citrate and 800 IU of Vitamin D3 per serving
  • Soy-Free, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Kosher Certified, Vegetarian Friendly
  • Free of milk, egg, fish, crustacean shellfish, tree nuts, peanuts, wheat and soybeans. Also free of yeast, gluten, barley, rice and sugar.

Cons

  • During the summer months products may arrive warm but Amazon stores and ships products in accordance with manufacturers' recommendations, when provided.
  • No other cons were found.

Bluebonnet Calcium Citrate Plus Vitamin D3 Caplets make an ideal option for anyone seeking a calcium supplement that is easy to swallow and has optimal absorbability. The caplets include calcium as a complex of calcium citrate, which is highly absorbable, and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) derived from lanolin.

We acknowledge that this product is devoid of many allergens and is also suitable for vegetarian customers. It is also important to note that the caplets are smooth and rather large, thus easy to swallow, which is good news for individuals who do not like to take large pills.

All in all, it is advisable to consider incorporating Bluebonnet Calcium Citrate Plus Vitamin D3 Caplets with other foods since it is a health institution-recommended product that is efficient in promoting strong bones.


Lifetime Bone Support

Lifetime Bone Support

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If you are interested in knowing calcium citrate for osteoporosis, then you have to look at Lifetime Bone Support.

Pros

  • Contains key minerals that can be challenging to obtain through diet
  • Powerful bone and muscle support formula with 300 mg of Magnesium Citrate and 600 mg of Calcium Citrate
  • Delicious strawberry flavored blend of Calcium, Magnesium and Vitamin D designed to help support restful relaxation

Cons

  • Sometimes the packaging is sub standard and some bottles may arrive broken
  • The flavor may not be to everyone's liking
  • Some customers have reported issues with customer service when trying to get a refund or replacement

We tried Lifetime Bone Support for several months and managed to observe its positive impact on our bones and muscles. The formula also includes minerals such as Magnesium and Calcium Citrate, which cannot be easily obtained in adequate quantities through diet. It has a nice strawberry taste, and hence, it is easy to take, especially for those who are always on the move.

There is a need to understand that some bottles can arrive in a broken state and hence should be checked for damages on arrival. Also, while we have a personal liking for the taste, some of the customers prefer not to take it due to the taste. Finally, customers have reported some problems with companies’ customer support when trying to get their money back or replacement of the broken bottles.

All in all, we suggest that Lifetime Bone Support is an effective calcium citrate for the cure of osteoporosis.


Country Life Target-Mins Calcium Magnesium Complex 1000mg/500mg, 90 Tablets

Country Life Target-Mins Calcium Magnesium Complex 1000mg/500mg, 90 Tablets

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If you’re in the market for a calcium citrate supplement for bone health, Country Life Target-Mins Calcium Magnesium Complex is worth checking out.

Pros

  • Formulated to support bone health
  • Contains 1000mg calcium, 500mg magnesium, and 500mg phosphorus per serving
  • Made with free-form amino acids to support nutrient utilization

Cons

  • Large tablets may be difficult for some to swallow
  • May cause stomach upset in some individuals
  • Some users report issues with the packaging being difficult to open

From our observation, Country Life Target-Mins Calcium Magnesium Complex can be recommended as one of the best calcium citrate supplements. We understand that it has calcium with magnesium and phosphorus for bone support, and is chelated with free-form amino acids. The tablets are slightly large size but they are not very cumbersome and could be easily swallowed. However, one with the packaging is that is very hard to open some users have complained of stomach upsets. In conclusion, we believe that this is a suitable choice for people looking for calcium citrate for osteoporosis.


ALGAECAL Bundle

ALGAECAL Bundle

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We strongly advise everyone to buy the ALGAECAL Bundle if you are searching for a calcic substance for your bone care needs.

Pros

  • The bundle includes a natural calcium and strontium supplement, a triple power omega 3 fish oil supplement, and a copy of the book "Healthy Bones Healthy You" by Lara Pizzorno.
  • AlgaeCal Plus is a plant-based calcium supplement with Vitamin D and K2 that is sourced from a rare red algae and contains all clinically supported bone-building minerals.
  • Clinical studies show that AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost are guaranteed to increase bone mineral density on DEXA scans within 6 months and that you can expect to see increases each year.

Cons

  • The bundle may be more expensive than other calcium supplements on the market.
  • Some people may prefer a calcium supplement in a different form than a capsule.
  • The bundle may not be suitable for those with allergies to fish or other ingredients in the supplements.

We have used ALGAECAL Bundle in our case and within a month, we can notice a change in our bone density and health. We feel comfortable with the decision to take this supplement for our bones because they’re all natural and plant-derived.

The AlgaeCal Plus supplement is taken from specific red marine algae and has minerals that have been recommended scientifically to aid bone formation, such as magnesium, boron, copper, manganese, silicon, zinc, and others. Vitamin D, together with K2, is essential for the recovery of bone fractures and is also beneficial for bone health.

The Triple Power Omega 3 Fish Oil supplement is loaded with high amounts of two essential Omega 3, DHA & EPA. Clinical studies indicate that there is a positive relationship between the consumption of EPA and DHA and bone mineral density. The supplement has three times the amount of fish oil with doses of two potent antioxidants.

Another good book that has been published is called ‘’Healthy Bones Healthy You” by Lara Pizzorno, and it has all the clinically backed approaches to the building of healthy bones. We strongly suggest the need to incorporate the above products in this bundle to anyone who would wish to gain full or active control over their bone health.


Nature's Blend Oyster Shell Calcium 500 mg 100 Tabs (1683) Unflavored 100 Count (Pack of 1)

Nature's Blend Oyster Shell Calcium 500 mg 100 Tabs (1683) Unflavored 100 Count (Pack of 1)

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If you are interested in finding an inexpensive calcium citrate supplement that will assist you in sustaining strong bones and teeth, Nature’s Blend Oyster Shell Calcium could be the ideal product for you.

Pros

  • The package dimension of the product is 3.3cmL x 3.3cmW x 10.2cmH, making it easy to store.
  • The product is made in the United States, which may give you peace of mind.
  • The product is free from preservatives, gluten, starch, artificial colors, artificial flavors, wheat, yeast, and corn.

Cons

  • Some users may find the tablets hard to swallow.
  • The product may not contain as much calcium as some other supplements on the market.
  • The product may contain a chalky shell ingredient that makes it difficult to swallow for some people who have had thyroid surgery.


We tested Nature’s Blend Oyster Shell Calcium for several months, and to be honest, it is quite similar to some other calcium citrate supplements. Although it was a bit hard to swallow the tablets, we noted that the product did not include any preservatives in its ingredients; it also did not include any gluten, starch, artificial colors or flavors, wheat, yeast, or corn. Also, the product is made in the United States, which, to some extent, brought us additional confidence. We also observed that the product could potentially have less calcium content than other supplements; thus, it may not be the most suitable for people needing more calcium. Furthermore, the chalky shell ingredient could be problematic for the swallowing process for people who have undergone thyroid surgery. In conclusion, we believe Nature’s Blend Oyster Shell Calcium is fairly good if you are seeking a calcium citrate supplement that isn’t very expensive.

Buying Guide

Calcium Content

Another consideration is the amount of calcium that is present in each supplement. When looking for a supplement, try to find one that has 500mg of calcium per serving as a minimum.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is known to play a crucial role in the absorption of calcium and the maintenance of healthy bones. Choose a supplement that has a minimum of 800 IU of vitamin D in each serving.

Other Nutrients

Calcium citrate supplements can also have other elements useful for bone development, including magnesium, vitamin K, boron, and others. There are other nutrients that you can take in supplements, and they include the following.

Form of Calcium

Calcium citrate is one of the best forms of calcium that is easily absorbed by the body, but other forms of calcium may be used in supplements like calcium carbonate or calcium phosphate. When searching for a supplement, ensure that it has calcium citrate in it.

Dosage

Make sure to take the supplement as prescribed by the manufacturer on the label. It has been also stated that the over-supplementation with calcium has some adverse effects, thus it is recommended to adhere to the set dosage.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the recommended daily calcium intake for women with osteoporosis?

Women with osteoporosis should consume 1,200-1,500 mg of calcium per day. It should be noted that this quantity falls under both the food and supplementary calcium sources.

Which calcium citrate supplement is the most effective for treating osteoporosis?

Calcium citrate supplements are not all equal, and there is no specific calcium citrate supplement that is more effective than the others for treating osteoporosis. It is advisable to take a supplement that has the Recommended Daily Amount of calcium and a bioavailability of ninety percent or more. It is also advised that one should seek the advice of a healthcare provider before beginning the use of any new supplement.

What are the side effects of taking calcium supplements for osteoporosis?

Some of the mild side effects of calcium supplements for osteoporosis include constipation, bloating, and gas. It is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider if these side effects do not subside or if they worsen.

Are there any calcium supplements that also contain vitamin D for better absorption?

Yes, many calcium supplements also contain vitamin D for better absorption. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and is important for bone health. It is important to choose a supplement that contains both calcium and vitamin D.

What are the differences between calcium citrate and calcium carbonate supplements for osteoporosis?

Calcium citrate and calcium carbonate are both commonly used calcium supplements for osteoporosis. Calcium citrate is more easily absorbed by the body and can be taken with or without food. Calcium carbonate must be taken with food for optimal absorption. It is important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine which supplement is best for individual needs.

What are some good food sources of calcium for people with osteoporosis?

Good food sources of calcium for people with osteoporosis include dairy products, leafy green vegetables, tofu, and fortified foods such as orange juice and cereal. It is important to aim for a balanced diet that includes a variety of calcium-rich foods.

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