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. Individuals with kidney stones are advised to take this form of calcium. It tends to be more expensive than calcium carbonate but less expensive than calcium citrate.