To help physicians answer osteoporosis questions, FORE sponsors the Northern California Bone and Mineral Club lecture series. The October 13th meeting features a debate between two leading physicians Paul D. Miller, MD and John P. Bilezikian, MD on the treatment of premenopausal women with low bone density. The recommendation for calcium intake will vary based on age, sex and other factors. The recommended dose for most people is between1000 and1500 mg per day. Generally, a calcium supplement is recommended for children and adults who do not meet their daily requirement through diet alone.
Calcium carbonate contains the highest amount of elemental calcium.
It easilly disintegrates but must be taken with a meal to be properly absorbed. Stomach acid enhances absorption. It is also the most cost-effective supplement. The only disadvantages are its higher cost and lower percentage of elemental calcium. For many elderly people, this kind of calcium is better tolerated.