A slightly sweeter than normal taste may be noticed but is acceptable on cereal or in cooked foods. Calcium Supplements Calcium supplements do not provide the other nutrients that help your body use calcium or nutrients your body needs to build healthy bones. Supplements should supplement the diet, not replace the diet. It is advisable to get a physician s or registered dietitian s recommendation before taking a calcium supplement on your own, because there might be reasons that calcium supplements would be unwise or unnecessary. There are many types of calcium supplements.
Supplements vary in the percent of calcium they provide.
Most calcium supplements are well tolerated and are not toxic if used in reasonable dosage. However, they should not be given to individuals who have kidney stones or individuals who form kidney stones. Dolomite and bone meal are two calcium supplements that are not recommended because of possible contamination with heavy metals such as lead, mercury, arsenic, and cadmium. For older adults who do not get much sunlight exposure, a calcium supplement containing vitamin D may be beneficial. For adults who do get sunlight exposure, a calcium supplement containing vitamin D may not be necessary.