However, taking mineral supplements is occasionally necessary. Here are some common questions about the use of mineral supplements. I've been told I need to take a calcium supplement. There's no strong evidence so far that one kind of calcium supplement is significantly better than another. However, some supplements do provide more available calcium than others.
Calcium carbonate provides the most calcium per milligram.
It is also one of the least expensive supplements. Calcium citrate, though it provides less calcium per milligram, is often recommended because it is easier on the stomach than calcium carbonate. The quality of commercial calcium supplement products has been questioned. Studies have found that some supplements do not break down fast enough in a solution similar to stomach acid. If it isn't broken down, the body is unable to absorb the calcium and it is eliminated.