Reacted Calcium by Ortho Molecular Products

If you are looking for a calcium supplement for bone density because your DXA scan showed decline or your dietary calcium is low, this fits. It is practical for post‑menopausal women, adults on acid‑blocking meds, people who avoid dairy, and long‑term steroid users. Check Vitamin D, 25-Hydroxy first; if your level is low, fixing vitamin D improves how well calcium builds bone. Count food intake, then use supplements to close the gap rather than overshoot.

This formula blends four forms: calcium citrate, dicalcium malate, calcium bisglycinate (a chelated form bound to the amino acid glycine for easier uptake), and microcrystalline hydroxyapatite (the calcium‑phosphorus mineral your bones are made of). Multiple forms improve absorption even with reduced stomach acid. Calcium, with vitamin D3, lowers parathyroid hormone (the signal that pulls calcium from bone), helping you maintain bone over time. Expect changes on bone markers and scans over months, not weeks.

Per label, take 1–2 capsules three times daily, ideally with meals. The critical rule is dose size: the gut absorbs calcium best in divided amounts around 500–600 mg elemental at a time. This product provides 500 mg per serving, so spread intake across the day. Separate calcium by 2–4 hours from iron, levothyroxine, tetracyclines or fluoroquinolone antibiotics, and bisphosphonates. If you use a proton‑pump inhibitor, citrate and bisglycinate remain well absorbed with meals.

Skip supplementation and speak with your clinician if you have a history of high blood calcium, recurrent kidney stones, sarcoidosis, primary hyperparathyroidism, or advanced kidney disease. Thiazide diuretics can raise calcium levels; monitor if you use them. For stone‑formers who still need calcium, take it with meals and discuss a 24‑hour urine calcium test. Constipation is the most common side effect; increase fluids, fiber, and magnesium if needed.