Top 7 Best Calcium Supplements for Osteopenia
UpdatedAugust 2, 2024
Osteopenia is a condition that occurs when bone mineral density is lower than normal but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis. It is a common condition, especially among older adults, and can increase the risk of fractures. Calcium supplements are often recommended to help improve bone health and prevent osteopenia from progressing to osteoporosis.
When it comes to choosing the best calcium supplement for osteopenia, there are several factors to consider. One important factor is the type of calcium used in the supplement. Calcium carbonate and calcium citrate are the two most common forms of calcium supplements. Calcium carbonate is cheaper and contains a higher percentage of elemental calcium, but it requires stomach acid for absorption. Calcium citrate, on the other hand, is more easily absorbed and can be taken with or without food.
Another factor to consider is the presence of other bone-supporting nutrients like vitamin D, magnesium, and vitamin K2. These nutrients work together with calcium to support bone health and prevent osteopenia from progressing to osteoporosis.
We spent hours researching and testing various calcium supplements to identify the ones that are best suited for individuals with osteopenia. In the next section, we will discuss our top picks and what makes them stand out.
Top 3 Best Calcium Supplements for Osteopenia
BioSchwartz Bone Strength Supplement
BioSchwartz Bone Strength Supplement
BioSchwartz Bone Strength Supplement is highly recommended for bone and joint health, featuring Vitamin K2, Calcium, Vitamin D3, and Magnesium for optimal support. It is third-party tested, allergen-free, and free from GMOs and artificial ingredients. However, the dosage of 4 pills daily may be inconvenient, capsules can be hard to swallow, and it's relatively pricey.
BioSchwartz Bone Strength Supplement is an amazing supplement if you are searching for a product that will help support your bone health. Without any doubt, it will be good for every person who wants to improve their bones and joints’ health.
Pros
- This supplement features key bone-building nutrients like Vitamin K2, Calcium, and Vitamin D3 for optimal bone support.
- BioSchwartz Bone Strength Supplement includes Magnesium to assist in calcium absorption, an essential mineral for bone health.
- Each and every batch of BioSchwartz Bone Strength Supplement is third-party tested to guarantee high purity, potency, and quality. This formula has been manufactured without GMOs, soy, gluten, milk, egg, wheat, peanuts, or shellfish. They also don't include preservatives, artificial ingredients, fillers, chemicals, or color additives.
Cons
- Some people may find the recommended dosage of 4 pills per day to be inconvenient.
- The capsules may be difficult to swallow for some individuals.
- The price point may be higher compared to other calcium supplements on the market.
In the past few months, we have been using this product BioSchwartz Bone Strength Supplement, and we have seen a lot of difference in our bones and joints. It is a well-absorbed formula, and we are happy that it contains several important bone-supporting nutrients that are not present in most other supplements.
Another interesting aspect of this supplement is that it is compounded by professionals. Every one of BioSchwartz’s professional supplements is designed by a group of highly skilled and experienced healthcare professionals in the USA in adherence to GMP to maximize the benefits.
All in all, if you want to get a top-notch calcium supplement for osteopenia, you might want to consider giving BioSchwartz Bone Strength Supplement a try. It is one of the best Bone and joint health supplements which is allergen-free and purity tested and can be used by anyone.
ALGAECAL Plus - Organic Red Algae Calcium Supplement
ALGAECAL Plus - Organic Red Algae Calcium Supplement
For those interested in taking a plant-based calcium supplement which has been clinically proven to provide positive impact to bone density, ALGAECAL Plus is highly recommended for purchase.
Pros
- Contains 16 nutrients essential for healthy bone density, including 13 bone-building minerals, vitamin D3, vitamin K2-Mk7, and vitamin C.
- Made from organic algae with 13 bone-supporting minerals, making it gentle on the body compared to traditional calcium citrate supplements sourced from quarries.
- Manufactured in the USA, the capsule is veggie-based, easy to swallow, dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free, non-GMO, and the packaging is recyclable.
Cons
- The price is rather high compared to other calcium supplements in the market.
- The daily recommended dosage is four capsules a day, which may be inconvenient for some people.
- Some customers may prefer gummy forms over capsules.
ALGAECAL Plus is a unique formula with 16 nutrients that support bone health. The 13 bone-building minerals with vitamin D3 are included for calcium absorption, vitamin K2-Mk7 guides calcium to your bones, and vitamin C targets the root cause of bone loss. Altogether, these 16 nutrients are scientifically defined to enhance bone mineral density and form the next generation of bone health.
For those of us who have tried the ALGAECAL Plus, we can testify that it works in improving the bone mass. It is a product made from plant that can be easily swallowed and contains calcium without the side effects on the body. The packaging is also reusable making it an environmentally friendly product that can be recycled.
All in all, ALGAECAL Plus is highly recommended for those who want to get a plant-derived calcium which has been scientifically proven to support the molecular structure of the bones with 16 nutrients proven to strengthen the bones naturally.
1MD Nutrition OsteoMD for Comprehensive Bone Support
1MD Nutrition OsteoMD for Comprehensive Bone Support
We highly recommend 1MD Nutrition OsteoMD for Comprehensive Bone Support to address osteopenia as a calcium supplement.
Pros
- OsteoMD uses the most potent ingredients available to provide complete bone health support.
- Each ingredient in OsteoMD is included in its optimal form for the best possible benefits.
- OsteoMD was formulated specifically to create a complete, synergistic platform for stronger bones both now and later.
Cons
- Capsules are large and may be difficult to swallow for some people.
- It needs a little more time to know for sure if it works.
- Continual price increases may force people to look at other sources.
We have taken 1MD Nutrition OsteoMD for Comprehensive Bone Support, and with the support, our bones especially are now stronger. Its highly absorbable calcium and bone vitamins help you to be sure that the calcium you have taken will be absorbed by your body. It also continues to accelerate treatment on how to reverse ageing bone loss through its Calzbone, a pure form of Cissus quadrangularis. It also includes an excellent formula for bone health and not just calcium.
To sum up, if you want to use a calcium supplement for osteopenia, we recommend 1MD Nutrition OsteoMD for Comprehensive Bone Support.
If one needs a plant based calcium supplement for the condition of osteopenia, NATURELO Bone Strength is highly recommended.
Pros
- Made with plant-based, whole food nutrients for healthy bone support
- Includes 10 vitamins & minerals that work together to support healthy bone building and help maintain bone density
- Vitamin D3, Magnesium, and Vitamin K2 are crucial co-factors that help your body to absorb and use calcium properly
Cons
- May take some time to see results
- Capsules may be large for some people to swallow
- Price is a little higher compared to other calcium supplements
We have been using NATURELO Bone Strength for a few months and I must say that the condition of my bones has improved significantly. It is essential to know that this supplement uses only plant-origin and whole-food compounds and has no GMOs, soy, gluten, yeast, dairy, egg, nuts, caffeine, coloring, preservatives, or flavoring agents. The capsules are very small and can be swallowed with no problem, but some people may consider them slightly large.
Another highlight of NATURELO Bone Strength is that it has 10 vitamins & minerals that act synergistically to promote bone formation and also help in the maintenance of bone mass. Vitamin D3, Magnesium, and Vitamin K2 are essential nutrients that assist the body in utilizing calcium in the right manner, that is, depositing it in the bones as opposed to the aorta and other sinewy tissues. We also understand it contains Vitamin C derived from organic acerola cherry, which is important for the synthesis of collagen for bone health.
Although the price of NATURELO Bone Strength is slightly high compared to other calcium supplements, it is one of the best ways to get your money’s worth and see results due to the quality of the ingredients used. All in all, NATURELO Bone Strength is worth taking as a clean, plant-based calcium supplement for the osteopenia category.
Garden of Life Raw Calcium Supplement for Women and Men - Vitamin Code Made from Whole Foods with Magnesium, K2, Vitamin D3 and Vitamin C, for Bone Strength, Probiotics for Digestion, 120 Capsules Raw Calcium 120
Garden of Life Raw Calcium Supplement for Women and Men - Vitamin Code Made from Whole Foods with Magnesium, K2, Vitamin D3 and Vitamin C, for Bone Strength, Probiotics for Digestion, 120 Capsules Raw Calcium 120
If you are looking for a natural, organic, Calcium supplement which is also plant based then Garden of Life Raw Calcium Supplement can be a good choice for you.
Pros
- AlgaeCal RAW source of calcium with naturally occurring trace minerals
- Vitamin K2, D3, and C for immunity and better absorption of calcium
- Raw Probiotic and Enzyme blend for better digestion and absorption
Cons
- Some users may find the capsules difficult to swallow
- The price is higher compared to other calcium supplements
- The product may not be suitable for people with certain dietary restrictions
Garden of Life Raw Calcium Supplement is a product that we have been using for the past few months, and we have experienced a change in our bone health. It is an easy to swallow supplement and we have not encountered any side effects such as stomach upsets.
The Raw Calcium formula uses AlgaeCal RAW, a certified organic plant based calcium sourced from algae. It also contains cofactors of 50mcg of Vitamin K2 in the form of MK-7, 1600IU of Raw Food-Created Vitamin D3, Magnesium, Boron, Silicon, and Vanadium.
We also acknowledge the fact that the supplement does not contain any of the standard forms of calcium that is limestone rock, chalk, or animal bone that may be unfit for raw food vegetarians.
In addition, the Raw Calcium formula contains a Raw Probiotic and Enzyme blend of strains such as L. bulgaricus and digestive enzymes such as Lipase and Protease to assist in the absorption and digestion process.
However, the capsules might not be easy to swallow, and the cost is slightly higher than that of other calcium supplements. The product may also not meet the dietary requirements of some individuals.
In conclusion, Garden of Life Raw Calcium Supplement can be seen as a natural and raw calcium supplement that benefits the bones, bones density and the immune system.
For a calcium supplement for osteopenia, we suggest Citracal Slow Release 1200.
Pros
- This sugar-free calcium supplement is designed to support bone health as part of your overall wellness and fitness regimen with just 2 caplets a day.
- Citracal Slow Release 1200 is made with Calcium Carbonate and Citrate, two essential minerals needed for bone health.
- With Vitamin D3 and Magnesium, this calcium supplement helps to absorb dietary calcium, and contains 80 mg of magnesium.
Cons
- The pills are large, which may make them difficult for some people to swallow.
- Exposure to heat or sunlight may lead to melting/damage of product. Hence customers are expected to be available during the product delivery.
- Some customers may prefer a flavored option.
We found Citracal Slow Release 1200 easy to swallow and did not experience any nausea after taking it. We suggest that it should be administered with food as the manufacturer has advised. To further enhance the bioavailability of calcium and vitamin D3, the patented Slo-Cal® Technology helps in releasing the nutrients slowly and steadily in the body with just one tablet intake a day. Citracal is also the number one calcium brand recommended by Doctors and Pharmacists all over the world, meaning you are in for a quality product.
All in all, we can say that Citracal Slow Release 1200 is a good choice for those who want to keep their bones strong with the help of calcium intake.
Doctor's BEST Calcium Bone Maker Complex
Doctor's BEST Calcium Bone Maker Complex
For anyone seeking a well-rounded bone support supplement, Doctor’s BEST Calcium Bone Maker Complex comes highly recommended.
Pros
- Provides key bone nutrients in their most bioactive forms
- Includes organic calcium with natural bone growth factors
- Supplies a wide range of bone-supporting vitamins and minerals
Cons
- Label images may vary
- May not be suitable for vegans
- Some users may find the capsules difficult to swallow
This supplement contains organic calcium with natural bone growth factor and vitamins C D K, magnesium potassium zinc copper manganese boron essential for bone health. We established that this was good for bone health and saw an improvement in our bone density after taking it for some months.
These capsules are easy to use but can be a bit cumbersome to swallow especially if the capsules are large in size. Also, the label images may be different, which can create some sort of issues for some users.
All in all, the Doctor’s BEST Calcium Bone Maker Complex is a great option for anyone who needs a vitamin and mineral supplement that will help support their bone health. We highly recommend it.
Buying Guide
In selecting the right calcium supplement for osteopenia, it is crucial to remember the following factors: Here are some factors to keep in mind when selecting a product:
Calcium Type
The first aspect is the calcium that is used in the calcium supplement. The common types of calcium that you will find in the market include calcium carbonate, calcium citrate, and calcium gluconate. Calcium carbonate is by far the most common and cheapest but could be less bioavailable to some people. Calcium citrate is better absorbed but is more costly than other forms of calcium supplements. Calcium gluconate is also used, but it is not as potent as the two forms mentioned above.
Dosage
The next factor to look at when it comes to the supplement is the dosage of the supplement. The daily dose of calcium depends on the age and sex and ranges from 1000 to 1300 milligrams. It is also important to consider that the supplement contains the recommended serving size of calcium per serving as listed on the label.
Other Nutrients
Some of calcium supplements have other ingredients like vitamin D, magnesium and vitamin K which promote the absorption of calcium and bone health. It is also important to note what other nutrients are contained in it and if they are suitable for your requirements.
Form
Calcium is available in different types such as tablets, capsules, liquids and chewables. Select the kind that is convenient to administer and which would not cause discomfort when ingested.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the recommended daily calcium intake for osteopenia?
The advised dietary calcium intake for adult men and women with osteopenia is 1000-1200mg of elemental calcium daily. But it should be noted that the required amounts of calcium can differ for various reasons such as age, gender, and other factors. It is crucial to seek medical advice on how much calcium intake is suitable for your consumption.
What are the side effects of taking calcium supplements daily?
Some of the side effects that are experienced when an individual takes calcium supplements include constipation, bloating and nausea. However, when taken in high quantities, it can pose some risks such as formation of kidney stones and other related complications. The intake of calcium supplements should be in accordance to the prescribed dosage and patients should consult the doctor before beginning the course.
Which type of calcium supplement is better for osteopenia: citrate or carbonate?
Both calcium citrate and calcium carbonate can be effective in treating osteopenia. However, calcium citrate may be better absorbed by the body, especially for individuals with low stomach acid. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to determine which type of calcium supplement is best for your individual needs.
What are the best calcium-rich foods for getting the recommended daily amount?
Dairy products like milk, cheese and yoghurt, green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds are also good sources of calcium. It is therefore important to take the recommended daily amount of calcium through the menu which should be comprised of varieties of calcium containing foods.
Are there any supplements that can help reverse osteopenia?
As for nutrients, there is agreement that the benefits of some micronutrients, including vitamin D, magnesium, and vitamin K, are likely to be helpful in improving bone density and, thus, may be helpful for the treatment of osteopenia. Nevertheless, further research is required to establish the efficacy of these supplements. It is always advisable to discuss with your doctor before incorporating supplements into your diet.
Can taking calcium supplements improve bone density in men?
Yes, calcium supplement might enhance the bone density in male osteopenics. However, it is advisable to adhere to the prescribed quantity of calcium and seek advice from a doctor before using calcium supplements.
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