Loading
Loading
Calcium citrate with vitamin D3 for bone density support. The citrate form absorbs well without food (unlike carbonate). Important for postmenopausal women, but recent evidence suggests dietary calcium is preferred over supplements when possible. The cardiovascular safety debate continues.
Citracal earns a solid score for using the superior citrate form, appropriate dosing, and inclusion of vitamin D3. No hype penalty -- this is a straightforward bone health product. The score is moderated by the unresolved cardiovascular safety question and the evidence suggesting dietary calcium is preferable to supplemental when achievable. Appropriate for women who cannot meet calcium needs through diet alone, particularly postmenopausal.
Calcium supplementation has decades of evidence for bone density maintenance, particularly in postmenopausal women. The Women's Health Initiative (WHI) trial (n=36,282) showed calcium + D supplementation modestly reduced hip fracture risk. Calcium citrate (used here) has superior absorption compared to carbonate, especially in those with low stomach acid (common in elderly). The vitamin D3 (800 IU) enhances calcium absorption. However, meta-analyses (Bolland 2010, 2011) have raised concerns about potential cardiovascular risk with calcium supplementation -- the debate remains unresolved.
| Ingredient | Dose | Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| Calcium (Citrate) | 600mg | Optimal |
| Vitamin D3 | 20mcg (800 IU) | Adequate |
Cardiovascular safety debate remains unresolved (Bolland meta-analyses). Dietary calcium is preferred over supplements when achievable. Requires multiple daily doses for adequate intake. Calcium can inhibit iron absorption (timing matters). Constipation is a common side effect.
Biorank may earn a commission from qualifying purchases. This does not influence our scores or rankings.
Popular picks in Bone & Joint
Top-rated from other categories