What is the Difference Between Calcium Citrate Malate and Calcium Carbonate?

Calcium citrate malate and calcium carbonate are two different forms of calcium supplements. Here are the main differences between them:

Absorption: Calcium citrate malate is absorbed more easily than calcium carbonate, and it can be taken on an empty stomach. Calcium citrate is better absorbed than calcium carbonate by approximately 22% to 27%, either on an empty stomach or co-administered with meals.
Calcium Content: Calcium carbonate contains more elemental calcium (about 40% by weight) than calcium citrate malate (21%). This means you may need to take more calcium citrate malate tablets to get the same amount of calcium as in calcium carbonate.
Side Effects: Calcium carbonate is generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience mild constipation or bloating. Calcium citrate malate is less likely to cause these side effects due to its better absorption.
Price: Calcium carbonate supplements tend to be more affordable than calcium citrate malate, as they contain a higher concentration of elemental calcium.
Brand Availability: Calcium carbonate is found in well-known products like Caltrate, Viactiv Calcium Chews, Os-Cal, and Tums. Calcium citrate malate is found in products like Citracal and GNC Calcimate Plus 800.

When choosing between calcium citrate malate and calcium carbonate, consider factors such as absorption, calcium content, side effects, price, and personal preferences. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any calcium supplementation.

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What is the Difference Between Calcium Citrate Malate and Calcium Carbonate?

Comparative Table: Calcium Citrate Malate vs Calcium Carbonate

Here is a table comparing the differences between calcium citrate malate and calcium carbonate:

Properties	Calcium Citrate Malate	Calcium Carbonate
Absorption	More easily absorbed	Less absorption
Elemental Calcium Content	21%	40%
Form	Bulkier form	More concentrated form
Tablet Size	Requires more or larger tablets	Provides the same amount of calcium in a smaller-sized tablet
Food Requirement	Can be taken with or without food	Should be taken with food
Adverse Effects	Less adverse events	More adverse events, such as constipation and intestinal bloating

Both calcium citrate malate and calcium carbonate are used as supplements to prevent or treat low blood calcium levels and to treat diseases resulting from low calcium levels, such as bone loss (osteoporosis) and weak bones. However, calcium citrate malate is more easily absorbed than calcium carbonate and can be taken with or without food. Calcium carbonate, on the other hand, has a higher concentration of elemental calcium and should be taken with food to enhance absorption. Calcium citrate malate requires more or larger tablets to achieve the same amount of calcium as calcium carbonate.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.