Ingredient
Calcium Carbonate
What is Calcium Carbonate?
Calcium Carbonate is a naturally occurring mineral found in rocks such as limestone and marble. It is extracted through mining and can be synthetically produced from hydrated lime.
It is primarily used in food products as a calcium supplement or an acidity regulator. The health evidence generally views it as safe, but excessive intake from supplements may lead to health issues like hypercalcemia.
When you see it on a label, it often indicates an effort to fortify the product with calcium or to balance the product's acidity.
Commonly found in: Dietary supplements, Antacids, Fortified foods, Baked goods, Dairy products
What to watch
- Excessive intake could lead to kidney stones or interfere with nutrient absorption in some individuals.
Benefits
- It helps in maintaining bone health by supplementing calcium intake.
- It can improve bone density in individuals with calcium deficiency.
Calcium Carbonate is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA for use in food.
Studies show its beneficial effects on bone health, but some research suggests caution with high doses to avoid potential health impacts.
Calcium Carbonate is considered vegan as it is typically derived from mineral sources rather than animal products.
Sources: Calcium Carbonate: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action
Scout's take
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
The case against
Excessive intake may lead to hypercalcemia, but this is unlikely from fortified foods alone.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond Almonds UNSWEETENED ALMONDMILK, VANILLA · echoed in 2 other analysesExcessive intake may lead to hypercalcemia, causing kidney stones or impaired absorption of other minerals.
from the analysis of Califia Farms TOASTED COCONUT ALMONDMILK BLENDExcessive intake can lead to hypercalcemia, but this is rare with normal consumption.
from the analysis of Califia Farms Oat Barista Blend Oat Milk - 1qtLow bioavailability compared to chelated calcium forms.
from the analysis of Pure Protein Protein BarsThe case for
Provides a significant source of calcium, supporting bone health and reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond ALMONDMILK, UNSWEETENED ORIGINAL · echoed in 1 other analysisProvides a source of calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Helps prevent osteoporosis and supports overall bone health.
from the analysis of Blue Diamond Almonds UNSWEETENED ALMONDMILK, VANILLAProvides a significant source of calcium, supporting bone health and preventing deficiencies.
from the analysis of Planet Oat ORIGINAL OATMILKProvides a source of calcium that supports bone health and helps prevent deficiencies.
from the analysis of Califia Farms Oat Barista Blend Oat Milk - 1qtProvides calcium, supporting bone health and acting as an acidity regulator.
from the analysis of Catalina Crunch Peanut Butter GranolaMore from Scout's analyses
Mineral fortificant and anti-caking agent — benign.
from the analysis of Davids Hydroxiatite Sensitive Whitening nHa Toothpaste tubeCalcium fortification.
from the analysis of Gerber Rice Single Grain CerealMineral fortification source for calcium.
from the analysis of MuscleTech 100% Mass Gainer Vanilla MilkshakeFound in 34 products
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