The Difference Between Citracal Gummies and Tablets
Citracal offers a range of calcium supplements designed to meet different consumer preferences, including tablets, caplets, and gummies. A common point of confusion arises because the brand is well-known for its tablets containing calcium citrate, a form of calcium prized for its high solubility and absorbability. However, careful examination of the product labels reveals that the formula for the gummies is distinct from that of the tablets.
Citracal gummies, which are favored for their chewable format and taste, list tricalcium phosphate as their primary calcium source. This is a different chemical compound from the calcium citrate found in Citracal's Maximum Plus and Petites tablets. Understanding this distinction is crucial for consumers, especially those with specific dietary requirements or digestive sensitivities.
Why the Change in Formulation?
The difference in calcium source is largely due to the manufacturing process and the properties of each compound. Tricalcium phosphate, a compound containing calcium and phosphorus, is a common ingredient in gummy supplements. It provides a source of calcium that works well with the gelatin-free, pectin-based formula of the gummies. Calcium citrate, on the other hand, is the result of combining calcium with citric acid, which makes it particularly effective in tablet form. While both provide calcium, their absorption characteristics differ significantly.
Comparing Calcium Citrate and Tricalcium Phosphate
When choosing a calcium supplement, it is important to compare the benefits of the different forms. Both calcium citrate (in Citracal tablets) and tricalcium phosphate (in Citracal gummies) help to support bone health, but their unique properties can influence which one is the best choice for you.
Absorption and Digestive Factors
- Calcium Citrate: This form does not require stomach acid for absorption, making it an excellent choice for older adults and individuals who take acid-reducing medications. It can be taken with or without food, offering flexibility in dosing. Additionally, it is generally considered gentler on the stomach, causing less bloating and constipation compared to other calcium forms.
- Tricalcium Phosphate: While also an effective source of calcium, it is absorbed differently and the absorption is not as extensively studied or compared as calcium citrate versus calcium carbonate. Some sources indicate better absorption for calcium citrate overall.
Elemental Calcium Content
- Calcium Citrate: Composed of about 21% elemental calcium by weight. This lower percentage means a larger number of tablets may be required to achieve the desired dose compared to calcium carbonate.
- Tricalcium Phosphate: This form contains a different proportion of elemental calcium. As seen on Citracal gummy packaging, the calcium is listed per serving, but it's not the same high elemental weight as found in calcium carbonate, requiring multiple gummies to meet a significant portion of the daily recommended intake. For example, one serving of Citracal gummies (two gummies) may provide 500mg of calcium, whereas two caplets of Citracal Maximum Plus (calcium citrate) provide 650mg of calcium.
Other Ingredients and Formulation
Citracal gummies contain additional ingredients to create their texture and flavor, such as corn syrup, sucrose, pectin, and artificial flavors. Citracal caplets, like Maximum Plus, contain additional micronutrients such as zinc, copper, and manganese to further support bone health. These are important differences to consider beyond the form of calcium itself.
Nutritional Considerations for Calcium Intake
Regardless of the supplement you choose, it is important to remember that calcium absorption is limited. For optimal absorption, experts recommend taking calcium in doses of 500-600 mg or less at one time. If you need more calcium per day, you should divide your dose throughout the day. Additionally, vitamin D is crucial for helping your body absorb calcium, which is why many calcium supplements, including both Citracal gummies and tablets, contain vitamin D3. A balanced diet rich in calcium-fortified foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified cereals is always the preferred method for getting your calcium. Supplements are designed to fill any nutritional gaps. Too much calcium can have negative side effects, so it is important not to exceed the recommended dosage without consulting a healthcare professional.
Which Citracal Product is Right for You?
Choosing the right supplement depends on your personal needs and preferences. Here is a comparison to help you decide:
| Feature | Citracal Gummies | Citracal Calcium Citrate Tablets (e.g., Maximum Plus) |
|---|---|---|
| Calcium Form | Tricalcium Phosphate | Calcium Citrate |
| Absorption | Can be taken with food for optimal absorption. | Can be taken with or without food; highly soluble. |
| Best For | Individuals who prefer a chewable format, children over 12, or those who have difficulty swallowing pills. | Individuals with low stomach acid, those on certain medications, or those prone to constipation. |
| Stomach Sensitivity | Generally gentle, but the specific form can affect some individuals. | Known for being gentle on the stomach and less likely to cause gas or bloating. |
| Serving Size | Requires two gummies per serving, often needing multiple servings daily to meet requirements. | Caplets provide a higher concentration of calcium per serving. |
Conclusion
While the Citracal brand is synonymous with calcium citrate for many, it is a misconception that all their products share the same formula. For those wondering, "are Citracal gummies calcium citrate?", the definitive answer is no—they contain tricalcium phosphate. The choice between gummies and tablets depends on your individual needs, including texture preference, absorption concerns, and digestive health. Always read the label carefully to ensure you are getting the form of calcium you prefer and remember that a well-balanced diet, supplemented wisely, is key to maintaining bone health. Consulting a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen is always a good practice.
For more information on calcium and bone health, visit the National Institutes of Health: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Calcium-Consumer/.
