Why You Need Plant-Based Calcium (& How To Get It)

Updated: September 18, 2024

plant based calcium

Hey Joe, there’s a leak in this pipe. Pass me the masking tape?”

I’m no handyman, but I can guess how that project will end.

With water gushing out the exposed space, adding a bunch of tape might at best reduce the size of the puddle on the ground.

It’s a patchwork solution. It’s not going to get to- and fix- the root of the problem!

But that’s effectively what’s happening when you supplement with your average calcium supplement. The calcium source inside is like a masking tape for your bones.

Unfortunately, that’s the case with a vast majority of the calcium bottles you see on retail shelves right now.

That’s why you need plant-based calcium. Because- believe it or not- your bone health is dependent on what’s happening in the ground. So let’s discuss plants for a moment.

As you may know, your body must absorb the vitamins and minerals it gets after digesting the food you eat. And as you also may know, our bodies can’t absorb raw metals from the soil. By that I mean, you can’t absorb the calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus from the ground without a bit of “processing” first.

That’s where plants come in.

Plants actually “predigest” the minerals in the soil and rocks. This makes the minerals in the plant completely absorbable to you now!

These minerals are available in the right amounts after the plant’s hard work. Just the way nature intended.

If you were to analyze the trace minerals in a given plant, you’d find more than just calcium inside. You wouldn’t just see nitrogen. Just as you wouldn’t merely see boron.

There are no “isolated” nutrients. No test tubes or lab coats selectively extracting ingredients and modifying a final product.

Just a natural, untouched mix of minerals from the ground.

And it’s this symphony of minerals your bones are used to and need to remain strong.

So why are millions feeding their bones 1 or 2 or 3 ingredients, in hopes their low bone density will improve? The spinach, the tomatoes, and potatoes you eat have more than just calcium or vitamin D or magnesium in them.

Yet traditional calcium supplements (which may or may not even include vitamin D and magnesium) are expected to curb bone loss.

The problem is, these calcium supplements are made from “rock-based” calcium. Not plant-based calcium.

I’m going to share the best plant-based calcium you can feed your bones in just a moment. But before I do, let’s discuss the crucial difference between plant-based and rock-based calciums.

rock vs plant based calcium

Plant-Based Calcium vs. Rock-Based Calcium

Rock-Based Calcium – Traditional calcium supplements are actually made from rocks. Yes, ground up rocks. Straight from dusty calcium mines. Some are made from marble. Some are made from limestone. Both are completely inedible and poorly absorbed.

Unfortunately, over 90% of the calcium supplements available today are rock-based.

Check the label on your calcium: if you see calcium carbonate or calcium citrate on the back, you’ve got rocks.

And I don’t need to tell you our bodies weren’t meant to digest rocks!

Some marketers will add a vitamin D or magnesium to the mix to really “power up” their supplement. But as you’ll see in a bit, your bones need no less than 13 crucial trace minerals to stay healthy.

Now, to deflect the scrutiny away from the inorganic source of calcium, marketers look to another (granted, important) feature: absorption. For example, they’ll claim calcium citrate is better absorbed than others, because the rock calcium is treated with citric acid. But science shows otherwise.

You’ve been led to believe that absorption rates equals efficacy. That makes logical sense– whatever’s better absorbed will have a greater effect in the body.

But studies show: the best-absorbed calciums do not have the best effect on your bone density.

The facts are – all calciums absorb between 25-35%.

So in the end, you’re still eating the inedible.

Even if it was a highly-absorbed calcium source, what good will that do if it’s devoid of the nourishing trace minerals your bones crave? Nowhere in nature do you find food that contains just 1 or 2 nutrients.

But that’s what rock-based calcium offers you every day.

You can probably see now why these supplements can constipate, bloat and cause other digestive discomfort.

Now to be fair, rock-based calcium is better than no calcium at all.

From age 40 onward we lose 1% of our bone each year on average (and quite a bit more over the 5 years after menopause). In other words, if we live long enough, just about everyone will become osteoporotic and risk having a fracture.

But rock-based calcium is shown to delay that fate, at least a little. Studies show that rock calcium slows annual bone loss. So instead of losing 1% per year, we may lose ¾ %.

Better than nothing!

Plant-Based Calcium: As the name suggests, this is calcium derived from a plant. It can be a plant on land or sea.

Unlike the rock-based, this calcium is untouched and contains the bounty of minerals naturally found in the ground it grows.

It’s better absorbed than its rock counterpart, due to the predigestion mentioned earlier. (Plus, we regularly eat plants every day, not rocks, so our bodies immediately recognize this form.)

The earth minerals are converted into body-friendly molecules. This means every part of your body gets the most from these previously non-absorbable minerals– including your bones. And that’s the most important difference between these two calcium sources.

Now, where can you get plant sources of calcium?


The Top Plant Sources of Calcium

You may be pleased to know it’s not all that hard to find plant sources of calcium– either in your home or the grocery store. What’s more, you can get them in both liquids and solids!

Here’s a quick list of some popular solid sources of plant calcium:

  • Kale
  • Seaweed
  • Tofu
  • Okra

To see a more comprehensive list of plant-based calcium sources, and their varying amounts, check out this post on vegan calcium sources.

Now you’re probably thinking it’s difficult to get enough calcium from plants. And you’re right. It takes 11 cups of broccoli to reach your RDA of calcium.

plant based calcium and broccoli

However, I’m about to tell you of the ultimate food-based calcium and how to get it…


The Only Clinically Supported Plant-Based Calcium Supplement

You now know the difference between rock- and plant-based calcium sources. So it will be easy to see why what I’m about to tell you might be the most exciting news you ever get if you have low bone density.

It all begins with, like we mentioned, what’s happening in the ground.

Specifically, the ocean floor. What am I talking about?

Well, at AlgaeCal we found the most mineral-dense organic plant on the planet. It’s found off the shores of South America. It’s actually a marine algae the natives have guarded for generations– most popularly used to raise prize livestock.

And while that in itself is impressive, it’s what’s inside (and how much) that’s really special.

This rare ocean algae – Mesophyllum superpositum (or Algas Calcareas as the locals call it) – nearly mimics your bones’ mineral composition. We call it AlgaeCal.

AlgaeCal naturally has all 13 mandatory bone-building minerals inside. And 60 more for good measure… right from the ocean. Plus, it holds these nutrients in roughly the same proportions as found in your bones right now.

Oh, and did we mention AlgaeCal is the planet’s only certified organic calcium source?

USDA Organic means you can rely on this ingredient to be pure, clean and chemical free so that it nourishes your bones and feeds your organs. (People report hair and nails growing faster, weight loss, increased energy. There are too many signs of excellent health to list!)

Seeing as it’s a plant source of calcium, the algae already has these minerals predigested. But there’s an important difference: this ocean algae is a much richer source of trace minerals than plants that grow on land.

That’s why you won’t have any upset stomach or constipation from AlgaeCal.

And that’s also why we can guarantee stronger bones after taking it.

Compare Plant-Based AlgaeCal to Traditional Rock-Based Calcium Supplements

plant based calcium vs rock based calcium

It took us a while to figure this all out, but once I realized the truth about this algae, my business partner and I put our life savings into funding human studies. We needed to find out if the algae actually performed better than traditional rock calcium. The theory was great, but what happens in real human studies can sometimes be disappointing.

Today, 6 groups of people in 3 properly conducted independent studies have all INCREASED bone density. That is an unheard of result. It was so out of the ordinary that the medical journals resisted publishing the results the first time. After they double checked all the data and interviewed the study investigators, it became clear that the results were real.

Since then, other journals have peer-reviewed and published follow-up studies and the evidence is now irrefutable: AlgaeCal increases bone density and strength, even in older participants.

And it increases bone density for the long-run… not just on your next DEXA bone scan. That’s because in February 2016 the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost together increased 172 participants’ bone density every year for 7 straight years.

All participants improved bone density on average 1% each year. And not a single side effect was reported. This landmark study showed the bone-building power of AlgaeCal’s Bone Builder Pack: AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost.

This means when you take your own Bone Builder Pack, not only will you have stronger bones each year, you’ll have the confidence to live your life as you want. You’ll know your bone density is constantly improving so you needn’t limit your daily activities.

It’s like restoring your bones to more youthful levels, today!

Can you imagine how relieving that would feel for you?

That life can be yours with the only clinically supported plant-based calcium supplement. You now have a new choice when it comes to calcium supplementation.

Not many years ago your only choice was to slow annual bone loss with a traditional calcium supplement. Now, increasing bone density is achieved with algae-based calcium. It makes sense that plant calcium outperforms rock calcium, doesn’t it?

It’s plant versus rock.

It’s a multi-mineral versus calcium alone.

It’s a solution versus a compromise.

And it’s increasing bone density versus slowing bone loss!

AlgaeCal is the world’s only pure plant source of calcium. That’s why we can make the promises we do.

The moral of the story?

Think back to our opening story of the leaky pipe.

You can cover it up with masking tape, rather than properly tightening it with a wrench. One makes the problem more manageable, the other solves it.

Don’t just lose your bones slower– build your bones with a solution.

Which would you prefer today?

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  1. Leta Carter

    July 8, 2017 , 9:49 am

    EDUCATION……..EDUCATION……and more education. WHEW!…….did ‘not’ know about “rock” calcium, until now with AlgaeCal. Keep the education coming Dean…….my journey right now is only 17 days into the program, but have high expectations for improved bone density……Leta C.

  2. Monica

    July 10, 2017 , 8:13 am

    Hi Leta,

    Thanks for the positive feedback! We are truly excited about your journey with AlgaeCal, however recent it may be. We are always here to help so if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate.

    – Monica

  3. Linda Rogers

    July 8, 2017 , 8:28 pm

    I am looking forward to trying both products. I have enjoyed reading all of the information.

  4. Monica

    July 10, 2017 , 8:09 am

    Hi Linda,

    Wonderful to hear! If you have any questions during your bone health journey, please let us know.

    – Monica

  5. HE Wagner

    October 14, 2017 , 5:27 pm

    I have a question: Is your algae source calcified algae when producing the product?

  6. Monica

    October 16, 2017 , 11:48 am

    Hi HE Wagner,

    Great question! AlgaeCal does not come from calcified algae. It is a living algae (typically a kiwi-sized, purplish ball) that washes up onto the shores of South America, where it is then sustainably hand-harvested, dried in the sun and milled into a powder.

    – Monica

  7. Lisa

    June 3, 2023 , 7:11 am

    How do you test for mercury/heavy metal content of the algae?

  8. Samantha AlgaeCal

    June 5, 2023 , 11:43 am

    Great question, Lisa! Our algae is hand harvested in Brazil, washed with fresh water, and then sun-dried. After drying, the algae are milled by our partners in Brazil; this mill has magnets attached to remove any metal filings or metal contaminants. The powder is then sieved to further check for impurities. The clean powder is sterilized and then shipped to the United States where the other vitamins/minerals are blended in, and capsules are made, bottled, and labelled. Additionally, AlgaeCal is USDA Certified Organic which means the harvest area is inspected regularly for possible pollutants. Each batch is tested for heavy metal contamination, bacteria, and more. AlgaeCal Plus is also made in an FDA-inspected GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) plant where the highest standards are maintained. Please let us know if you have any further questions. 🙂

    – Sam @ AlgaeCal

  9. Genevieve

    April 27, 2018 , 12:18 am

    1) Will your product help my father (82) who has had a hip replacement and complains of pain in his bones? Doctors give only medications not vitamins or minerals.
    2) For myself (53)…how long will the bones take to absorb the minerals?

  10. Jenna AlgaeCal

    May 1, 2018 , 3:47 pm

    Hi Genevieve,

    We’re glad you reached out. AlgaeCal has been specifically studied for bone mineral density increase, and not pain. However, many customers have let us know AlgaeCal was beneficial for reducing their pain – especially if the root cause was a mineral imbalance or low bone density. We would suggest checking out our Triple Power Fish Oil as well, it is a natural anti-inflammatory that has been extremely effective for reducing pain! It’s temporarily sold out but you can learn more about it here.

    Genevieve, if you are looking to increase your bone density with AlgaeCal, you can begin to see measurable results in as little as 6 months time! This is based on our 3 human clinical studies which you can learn more about here.

    If you have further questions feel free to email [email protected] or give our Bone Health Consultants a call at 1-800-820-0184. We’re always happy to help 🙂

    – Jenna @ AlgaeCal

  11. Genevieve

    April 27, 2018 , 12:25 am

    3) Do you have these minerals in powdered form in a bottle or would i have to open the capsules and add to liquid?
    I do not like capsules.

  12. Jenna AlgaeCal

    May 1, 2018 , 3:49 pm

    Good question, Genevieve. AlgaeCal comes in soft veggie capsules that can be easily pulled apart and sprinkled into foods like smoothies, yogurt, and oatmeal. We just don’t recommend hot foods or drinks to avoid denaturing the vitamins. Hope that helps!

    – Jenna @ AlgaeCal

  13. Vivianne

    August 25, 2018 , 2:28 pm

    I’m a new nurse practitioner and would like to recommend these type of calcium to my patients… I haven’t tried it myself since being a student is tough….
    Do you have any samples?
    Thanks,

  14. Jenna AlgaeCal

    August 28, 2018 , 1:41 pm

    Hi Vivianne,

    Great to hear you’re interested in suggesting plant-based calcium to your patients!

    Sample sizes are not available, but we do have a one-year product satisfaction guarantee which gives you a chance to try the products and see if they are a good fit for you! If there’s any reason you are dissatisfied, you can return any unused or partially used bottles for a full refund. You can learn more about this here.

    If you have any questions give us a call at 1-800-820-0184!

    – Jenna @ AlgaeCal

  15. Marilyn

    August 26, 2018 , 5:11 am

    Should plant calcium be avoided with certain types of food or doesn’t it matter?

  16. Jenna AlgaeCal

    August 28, 2018 , 2:07 pm

    Hi Marilyn,

    You don’t need to separate a plant calcium such as AlgaeCal Plus from any foods. If possible, we do recommend taking it with a snack or meal that includes protein and healthy fats for optimal absorption!

    For more information on how to take AlgaeCal go here.

    – Jenna @ AlgaeCal

  17. Adnan

    October 11, 2018 , 10:15 am

    I want to know the dide effects of AlgaeCal

  18. Jenna AlgaeCal

    October 11, 2018 , 3:58 pm

    Hi Adnan,

    Along with being completely natural & clinically supported to increase bone density, AlgaeCal has no side effects! The safety of AlgaeCal is confirmed in our 3 human clinical studies. The latest, a 7-year long trial also showing consistent and linear increases in bone density year after year! To see those studies click here.

    Let us know if you have further questions 🙂

    – Jenna @ AlgaeCal

  19. Jean

    October 17, 2018 , 9:05 am

    Where is Strontium obtained from?
    Why is it important to take with AlgaeCal? What are any negative side effects of Strontium?

  20. Jenna AlgaeCal

    October 23, 2018 , 11:22 am

    Hi Jean,

    Great questions! We use pure clinical grade strontium citrate. The mineral strontium is sourced from soil, and the citric acid (citrate) is sourced from citrus fruits. The mineral strontium and citric acid are bound to make strontium citrate!

    AlgaeCal Plus on its own is clinically supported to increase bone density by an average of 1.3% per year. However, we naturally lose around 1% of our bone density per year after the age of 40, sometimes more depending on other factors like hormonal changes, genetics, lifestyle, etc. AlgaeCal Plus is not always able to overcome this accelerated bone loss, which is why we recommend Strontium Boost – because it triples the rate of bone-building!

    Along with being clinically supported to increase bone density, AlgaeCal Plus & Strontium Boost have no side effects! The results of a recently completed 7 year study shows extraordinary safety via a panel of 45 blood chemistries you can see here.

    To learn more about how strontium works and its safety, check out our in-depth blog post here.

    – Jenna @ AlgaeCal

  21. Lucy

    November 2, 2018 , 4:02 pm

    What part of South America the algae comes from?

  22. Jenna AlgaeCal

    November 5, 2018 , 2:51 pm

    Hi Lucy,

    AlgaeCal is sourced from Brazil! You can learn about our harvesting process here.

    – Jenna @ AlgaeCal

  23. MARIAM HYDER

    November 21, 2018 , 4:24 am

    I AM LOOKING FORWARD TO PURCHASE A PLANT BASED CALCIUM.
    HOWEVER I AM CURRENTLY AS WELL TAKING A MULTI VITAMIN & MINERAL.
    SO SHOULD I STOP MULTIVITAMIN AND TAKE ONLY ALGAECAL?

  24. Jenna AlgaeCal

    November 27, 2018 , 10:36 am

    Hi Mariam,

    Wonderful to hear you’re making the switch to plant-based calcium! AlgaeCal would provide your bones with the vitamins and minerals they need to be replenished, so it’s not necessary to take a multivitamin or mineral supplement.

    If you do choose to continue with these supplements, it’s important to take them at least 2 hours away from AlgaeCal! For information on how to take AlgaeCal go here.

    – Jenna @ AlgaeCal

  25. Tammy

    January 14, 2019 , 4:55 am

    I have been diagnosed with several autoimmune issues, including MS, and have been prescribed vitamin D. I understand that vitamin D and calcium absorption are related. Does this supplement contain Vitamin D? If I take it, will I need to continue my current RX?

  26. Jenna AlgaeCal

    January 15, 2019 , 9:04 am

    Hi Tammy,

    You’re right, vitamin D is crucial for calcium absorption so it’s important you get enough!

    AlgaeCal contains 1600 IU of vitamin D3 in the full daily dosage. We recommend speaking to your doctor regarding your vitamin D intake!

    – Jenna @ AlgaeCal

  27. Barbara

    January 20, 2019 , 8:36 am

    I have bone spurs in the big toe joint of my foot. Will AlgaeCal increase the spurring?

  28. Jenna AlgaeCal

    January 21, 2019 , 2:29 pm

    Oh no, sorry to hear that Barbara. The vitamins and minerals found in AlgaeCal Plus should actually be beneficial for your bone spurs! You can learn more about why that is here (plus see other natural bone spur treatments).

    Hope that helps 🙂

    – Jenna @ AlgaeCal

  29. Andrea Cobb

    March 4, 2019 , 9:05 pm

    I have just been learning that calcium supplements can cause heart disease and stroke. Do that include vegan plant base calcium? I’m afraid to continue taking calcium supplements

  30. Jenna AlgaeCal

    March 13, 2019 , 11:54 am

    Thank you for reaching out and sharing your concern, Andrea!

    Like we covered in this post, the majority of calcium supplements are derived from rocks. As you can imagine this is not body-friendly – it’s no wonder they can cause side effects like artery calcification and increased risk of heart attack.

    You’re on the right track — plant-based calcium supplements like AlgaeCal are different because our body actually recognizes the nutrients as food! AlgaeCal also has added vitamin K2 which helps direct the calcium where it needs to go into your bones (and away from soft tissues!)

    The safety of AlgaeCal is demonstrated in all 3 of our human clinical studies. Our most recent study lasted 7 years, in this time frame there were NO side effects, and the participants experienced a linear increase in bone density – year after year! You can see our studies here.

    If you have any further questions or concerns, please give us a call at 1-800-820-0184!

    – Jenna @ AlgaeCal

  31. PJ

    May 3, 2019 , 7:31 am

    Question: I have elevated calcium levels in the range of 10.4 to 10.6 and been diagnosed with fhh (familial hypocalciuric hypocalcemia) and I have ostopenia. Will algaecal be helpful in my situation? My 24 he urine test always result in low calcium output.

  32. Jenna AlgaeCal

    May 7, 2019 , 8:57 am

    Hi PJ,

    It would be best to speak with your doctor first to make sure AlgaeCal is right for you! ❤️ We have an information sheet here you can share with your doctor.

    If you have any questions or would like more information please give our Bone Health Consultants a call at 1-800-820-0184!

    – Jenna @ AlgaeCal

  33. Sylvia Noland

    July 29, 2019 , 12:35 pm

    I was recently diagnosed with low bone density. My doctor recommended Boron. She said calcium replacement was not recommend because of my heart failure and bundle branch blockage.If I read this right, the calcium contained in this is different than conventional.I am seriously considering buying this

  34. Megan AlgaeCal

    July 30, 2019 , 11:22 am

    Hi Sylvia, we’re so glad you reached out!

    Yes, you read right! AlgaeCal is different because it’s plant-based and our body actually recognizes it as food. It provides you with all 13 minerals needed by your bones – including boron – and also provides additional bone-building vitamins. For example, vitamin K2 which helps direct calcium into your bones and away from soft tissues like your arteries and heart! The safety of AlgaeCal is demonstrated in all 3 of our human clinical studies. Our most recent 7-year study showed specifically that ’no evidence was found in cardiovascular risk’ and participants saw an increase in bone density year after year! You can see our studies here: https://www.algaecal.com/research/clinical-studies/

    Hope this helps, Sylvia! If you need clarification or would like to purchase AlgaeCal, please feel free to call our Bone Health Consultants at 1-800-820-0184!

    – Megan @ AlgaeCal

  35. Terri Kelley

    November 9, 2019 , 11:23 am

    Will this product help bind oxylate in preventing kidney stone re occurance?

  36. Megan AlgaeCal

    November 12, 2019 , 2:02 pm

    Hi Terri, good question!

    AlgaeCal is a natural, plant-based calcium that does not cause kidney stones! Because it’s a plant calcium, our body actually recognizes it as food. We have also added in vitamin K2 which helps transport calcium away from soft tissue (such as the kidneys) and into your bones!

    Terri, we have a detailed article on oxalates that you might find helpful here.

    Feel free to have a read and if you have any questions afterwards, don’t hesitate to give us a call at 1-800-820-0184 🙂

    -Megan @ AlgaeCal

  37. Lesley Baker

    December 27, 2019 , 4:20 pm

    I’ve been diagnosed with significant bone loss, I’m looking into all natural calcium and essential minerals to take.
    I’ve researched into your product and it indeed sounds amazing, however, I’d like to ask the question regarding the digestive process, I’m aware of the systems ability to break down whatever we ingest, and would like yo know if its the same when taking normal supplements we lose about 90% through the digestive process. Is your Algae Cal any different so we absorbe 100% of all the product.

  38. Megan AlgaeCal

    December 31, 2019 , 9:27 am

    Hi Lesley, thanks for reaching out!

    AlgaeCal is different from traditional calcium supplements in that it is plant-based and contains a naturally occurring trace mineral complex similar to the mineral composition of our bones. This means that it is more easily tolerated and absorbed compared to other calcium supplements. We’ve also added nutrients like vitamin K2, ensuring that the calcium in AlgaeCal can be properly absorbed, directed to our bones (and away from soft tissues), and effectively used to improve bone health!

    In saying that, no supplement is 100% bioavailable. You may find this video helpful – Bone Health Expert Lara Pizzorno, author of Your Bones, explains the bioavailability of different calcium forms.

    Hope this information helps, Lesley! If you have any other questions or need clarification, feel free to give our Bone Health Consultants a call at 1-800-820-0184 🙂

    -Megan @ AlgaeCal

  39. Beth

    February 1, 2020 , 7:38 am

    Please address the lead that is found in AlgaeCal and how can there be safe levels of lead? Thanks.

  40. Megan AlgaeCal

    February 3, 2020 , 3:32 pm

    Hi Beth, thanks for reaching out – we’d love to help address your concerns!

    There are trace amounts of lead in AlgaeCal similar to many other foods. It is present in small amounts that fall well within safety standards. You see, every vegetable that grows in the soil or water has normal, safe amounts of lead in it – and the marine algae in AlgaeCal is no exception.

    Rest assured, calcium and lead are absorbed into the body using the same pathway and because there are large amounts of calcium in AlgaeCal compared to lead, this means calcium will win at the absorption site and a minimal amount of lead will be absorbed. Furthermore, your body will naturally clear normal amounts of lead daily, through urine, feces, and sweat, unless there is a sudden spike which surpasses your body’s capacity to clear. The safety of AlgaeCal has been well established during the most recent 7-year study, which included 45 blood panel chemistries drawn at the baseline and end of the study.

    Hope this information helps put your mind at ease, Beth! If you have any further questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Bone Health Consultants at 1-800-820-0184. ❤️

    -Megan @ AlgaeCal

  41. Floyd longwell

    June 3, 2020 , 6:45 am

    Please provide links to show that Algae contains the same amount of lead as “every vegetable that grows in the soil or water ”

    Tofu is a “good” source of calcium because it is made with Calcium Sulfate (gypsum = plaster)

    You don’t explain the mechanism by which a plant “digests the calcium”. Isn’t it really about particle size? Are you saying the the plant somehow morphs the calcium into a different form, other than particle size? I’m thinking calcium is calcium–it’s only a question of large chunks vs single, free ions.

    What I’m being told elsewhere is that only single, free ions of calcium actually enter the bloodstream–that the intestine’s job is to exclude and excrete any larger chunks. But I wonder if this filtering system is 100% effective.

    My concern is conditions such as Calcific Aortic Valve disease. Were these single, free ions of calcium that accumulated on my heart? Or is the villain the larger chunks that came from mineral sources such as supplements, antacids, dairy (?) and tofu.

  42. Megan AlgaeCal

    June 4, 2020 , 11:17 am

    Hi Floyd, thanks for sharing your questions and concerns!

    Here’s a link to a study that shows trace amounts of lead in food. We can see that commonly eaten vegetables contain similar amounts of lead as AlgaeCal. For example, 1 medium potato has ~1.46 mcg, 10 asparagus spears has ~1.33 mcg, and 1 cup of Brussels sprouts has ~0.92 mcg.

    This article is currently being updated and we appreciate you bringing up some points that are outdated, Floyd! Here is a newer blog article covering recent research about calcium supplements.

    We encourage you to speak with your doctor to determine the underlying cause of your aortic valve calcification – factors such as inflammation and cholesterol profiles can play a big role. Typical calcium supplements provide only calcium (some with vitamin D), which is why they’ve been shown to harm heart health in studies.

    As a plant-based calcium, there are several other bone-supporting minerals naturally occurring in AlgaeCal. These, along with the key vitamins we’ve added, are most likely the cause of AlgaeCal’s extraordinary clinical results and safety. One of these vitamins is vitamin K2, which helps direct calcium where it needs to go – into your bones- and keeps it from depositing in unwanted places (like the heart). You can learn more about K2 here.

    Hope we’ve helped address your concerns, Floyd! Feel free to call us at 1-800-820-0184 or email [email protected] if we can help with anything else 🙂

    -Megan @ AlgaeCal

  43. Miss Anita

    December 8, 2022 , 8:21 am

    Wonderful info! My question is: does this kind of calcium also build up in the arteries and the heart valves like other calcium?

  44. Chelsea Dugas

    December 12, 2022 , 1:40 pm

    An important question, Anita! The majority of calcium supplements provide an excessive dose of calcium on their own (or calcium with vitamin D), without the many other nutrients needed for absorption into bone. AlgaeCal is a whole food source of calcium with a wide variety of naturally occurring trace minerals, plus added vitamins D3, K2, and C, and boron! This perfect balance of vitamins and minerals all work together to keep calcium out of soft tissue like the heart and arteries, and deliver it straight to where it’s needed – our bones! The safety of AlgaeCal is confirmed in all three of our human clinical studies. To review the research, visit our website HERE. Hope this helps to ease your mind! Please feel free to reach out to our Bone Health Consultants at 1-800-820-0184 (USA & Canada, toll-free) or email [email protected] for more information and personalized support!:)

    – Chelsea @ AlgaeCal

  45. Susan Duffett

    May 10, 2023 , 12:46 pm

    Why is there calcium chloride in your AlgaeCal Plus?

  46. Megan @ AlgaeCal

    May 11, 2023 , 9:09 am

    Hi Susan,

    Thank you so much for reaching out! AlgaeCal is unique because it naturally contains different forms of calcium, however, these forms do not include calcium chloride. Lab analyses show that the calcium forms in AlgaeCal include: calcium hydroxide, calcium sulphate, calcium phosphate and calcium carbonate. Keep in mind that AlgaeCal is not just calcium, but a complete bone-health supplement. Besides calcium, there is a very broad spectrum of naturally occurring trace minerals. We’ve also added essential bone-health nutrients such as vitamin D3, K2 and boron. This combination of nutrients is likely the cause of AlgaeCal’s extraordinary clinical results and what makes it the only calcium supplement clinically supported to increase bone mineral density. Let us know if you have any questions! 🙂

    – Megan @ AlgaeCal

  47. Paulette

    May 31, 2023 , 7:02 am

    I have severe arthritus with bone on bone on my hip. I am currently taking Hylauronic Acid, ciltrate calcium with vitamin D and new chapter multivitamin. How can i reverse arthritus and my bone on bone. with Algae Cal. Please advise. I am very active and also a health nut. Please provide feedback.

    Thank you

    PC

  48. Manja

    May 31, 2023 , 1:01 pm

    Sorry to hear that, Paulette! AlgaeCal has been studied specifically for improving bone mineral density and not arthritis. You may benefit from our product called Triple Power Fish Oil! It eases oxidative stress through a combination of EPA + DHA omega 3s, turmeric, and astaxanthin. You can learn more here. We also have an article on natural remedies for arthritis you may find helpful here.
    Please don’t hesitate to call our Bone Health Consultants at 1-800-820-0184 (USA & Canada toll-free) for more information!

    – Manja @ AlgaeCal

  49. Sandra Gummert

    August 1, 2023 , 4:18 am

    I am a type 2 diabetic,Can I take this safely?

  50. Shelby AlgaeCal

    August 1, 2023 , 9:02 am

    Thank you for reaching out, Sandra – we’re sorry to hear that you’re living with diabetes, and understand your concern! While we do have many customers with this condition who are able to take AlgaeCal safely, we recommend checking in with your doctor to see if our supplements are right for you. We have an excellent information sheet you can share with your doctor HERE. For more information, please don’t hesitate to give our Bone Health Consultants a call at 1-800-820-0184 (USA & Canada toll-free)!
    – Shelby

  51. Kathy Verduin

    September 2, 2023 , 6:58 am

    My bone density test came back showing bone density loss. I am in my early 70’s, and have been on calcium, & D3 for years, you can imagine my (uneducated) surprise!! Doctor immediately wanted to put me on bone medications. After checking side affects, I knew it wasn’t for me. So I’ve been searching for a natural, proven method, and I was led to you!! I can’t tell you how happy I am, and will be ordering your advanced bone density product! Thank you so much!! And so happy to see the results of the 3 clinical trials… this enabled me to prove the efficacy of the product to my “pharmaceutical Director” husband!!

  52. Manja AlgaeCal

    September 4, 2023 , 12:57 pm

    We’re so happy that you’re on your way to stronger bones with AlgaeCal, Kathy! We’ve helped thousands of women and men strengthen their bones naturally and we’re excited to do the same for you. We hope you will utilise our blog which contains a lot of helpful information geared toward bone health. And of course, our Bone Health Consultants are just a phone call away at 1-800-820-0184 (USA & Canada toll-free)! We would love to hear from you and take the opportunity to set you up for success at the start of the program with more personalised support.
    – Manja

  53. Emma Fish

    May 6, 2024 , 7:40 pm

    Hi, I am currently using an MCHCal supplement made from bovine bone sources.

    I have read a study that compares this animal-based calcium source to the rock type carbonates and citrates. It said that MCHCal doesn’t spike blood calcium levels a much as the rock types, but it does cause the blood phosphate and Ca-phosphate Product to increase more than the rock types, and increased blood phosphate and Ca-phosphate product are associated with higher atherosclerosis.

    The study said that the MCHCal provided 50mg of additional phosphate per serving of calcium (it appears they had 1g of carbonate, so to level things out, each person was receiving 400mg of calcium at each dose, it didn’t explain completely, but it app that for each 400mg of Calcium, the MCHcal had an extra 50g of Phosphate)

    Do you have any information on the amount of phosphate in algaecal, as well as whether there are any studies on whether it spikes blood calcium, phosphate or Ca-phosphate levels?

  54. Yoori AlgaeCal

    May 7, 2024 , 3:24 pm

    Thank you for reaching out, Emma! There may be a small amount of naturally occurring phosphate in AlgaeCal, just like how some food ingredients naturally include a trace amount of phosphate. For your peace of mind, the AlgaeCal program has been studied for safety and efficacy. The most recently published study examines the effect of AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost on adult bone density and health after 7 years. Not only did people taking AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost for 7 years see a progressive linear increase in bone density, year after year – they also experienced no adverse side effects reported in their blood work. This study can be found HERE. I hope this addresses your concern! 🙂
    – Yoori

  55. Elisheva

    October 8, 2024 , 8:44 am

    Are there any studies concerning algae based calcium and any correlation with arterial calcification?

  56. Yoori AlgaeCal

    October 8, 2024 , 2:53 pm

    Great question, Elisheva! The safety of AlgaeCal is confirmed in all three of our human clinical studies. To review the research, visit our website HERE.

    Our most recently published study examines the effect of AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost on adult bone density and health after 7 years. Not only did people taking AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium boost for 7 years see a progressive linear increase in bone density, year after year – they also experienced no adverse side effects reported in their blood work, specifically “no evidence was found in cardiovascular risk”.

    AlgaeCal is a whole food source of calcium with a wide variety of naturally occurring trace minerals, plus added vitamin D3, K2, and C, and boron! This perfect balance of vitamins and minerals all work together to keep calcium out of soft tissue like the heart and arteries, and deliver it straight to where it’s needed – our bones!

    I hope this helps, Elisheva. 🙂 Any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out at 1-800-820-0184 (US & Canada Toll-free) or email [email protected].

    – Yoori

  57. Elisheva

    October 8, 2024 , 8:47 am

    ***Email correction! For my question if there are any clinical studies concerning any correlation between algae based calcium and arterial calcification? Thank you!

  58. Yoori AlgaeCal

    October 8, 2024 , 2:53 pm

    Great question, Elisheva! The safety of AlgaeCal is confirmed in all three of our human clinical studies. To review the research, visit our website HERE.

    Our most recently published study examines the effect of AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost on adult bone density and health after 7 years. Not only did people taking AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium boost for 7 years see a progressive linear increase in bone density, year after year – they also experienced no adverse side effects reported in their blood work, specifically “no evidence was found in cardiovascular risk”.

    AlgaeCal is a whole food source of calcium with a wide variety of naturally occurring trace minerals, plus added vitamin D3, K2, and C, and boron! This perfect balance of vitamins and minerals all work together to keep calcium out of soft tissue like the heart and arteries, and deliver it straight to where it’s needed – our bones!

    I hope this helps, Elisheva. 🙂 Any other questions, don’t hesitate to reach out at 1-800-820-0184 (US & Canada Toll-free) or email [email protected].

    – Yoori

This article features advice based on cutting-edge research from our industry experts to give you the best possible information to support your bone-building journey.

Lara Pizzorno
MDiv, MA, LMT - Best-selling author of Healthy Bones Healthy You! and Your Bones; Editor of Longevity Medicine Review, and Senior Medical Editor for Integrative Medicine Advisors.,
Dr. Liz Lipski
PhD, CNS, FACN, IFMP, BCHN, LDN - Professor and Director of Academic Development, Nutrition programs in Clinical Nutrition at Maryland University of Integrative Health.,
Dr. Emma Gasinski
PT, DPT, RYT - Physical therapist and certified yoga teacher with a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Rocky Mountain University of Health Professionals,
Dr. Lawrence (Larry) A. May
MD, FACP, Harvard Medical School Graduate, Physician, Author, Public Speaker - Doctor of Internal Medicine at Providence Cedars-Sinai Tarzana Medical Center and author of several articles and books, including the widely utilized and best selling medical textbook Primary Care Medicine,