What is AlgaeCal?
AlgaeCal is a brand of bone health supplements, primarily centered on its plant-based calcium derived from a species of marine algae called Mesophyllum superpositum. Unlike many traditional calcium supplements made from rock (calcium carbonate or citrate), AlgaeCal promotes its whole-food, plant-sourced origin as being more bio-accessible and body-friendly.
AlgaeCal's product line, such as 'AlgaeCal Plus', is formulated with a multi-nutrient approach, including the core algae-based calcium plus other key bone-supporting vitamins and minerals. These additional nutrients include:
- Magnesium
- Vitamin D3
- Vitamin K2 (as MK-7)
- Vitamin C
- Boron
- And trace amounts of other minerals like strontium, zinc, and manganese.
AlgaeCal's Proprietary Research and Company Claims
AlgaeCal heavily publicizes its clinical research to support its unique selling proposition—that it can increase bone mineral density, not just slow bone loss. The company cites three human clinical studies, published in peer-reviewed journals, which they state confirm its efficacy.
One study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition in 2016 involved a group of people using the supplement and reported an increase in bone density with no associated adverse effects. Other research, funded by the company, compared AlgaeCal's plant-based calcium with rock-based versions (calcium carbonate and citrate) in lab settings. These in vitro studies on human bone-building cells showed that the algae-based calcium resulted in significantly higher cell proliferation and mineralization.
The Strontium Factor: Impact on DEXA Scans
For those with existing bone loss, AlgaeCal offers a companion product, 'Strontium Boost'. Strontium is a naturally occurring element found in trace amounts in the bones. The company claims that combining AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost accelerates the bone-building process.
However, it is crucial to understand how strontium can influence bone density scans (DEXA). Studies have indicated that strontium is a heavier element than calcium, and when incorporated into the bone, it can cause the DEXA scan to appear denser because it absorbs more X-rays than calcium. Therefore, an apparent increase in bone density on a DEXA scan might be partly due to strontium's presence rather than an actual increase in bone mineral density in the traditional sense, which is a point of contention among medical professionals.
What Independent Medical Consensus Says
While some specific doctors, often featured in company promotional material, speak highly of AlgaeCal, independent medical and health organizations offer more general guidance.
Most mainstream healthcare providers emphasize a holistic approach to bone health that includes diet, exercise, and cautious supplementation. They recommend meeting nutrient needs, especially for calcium and vitamin D, primarily through diet first. Supplements are recommended to fill nutritional gaps, but the effectiveness of supplements alone for preventing or managing osteoporosis is often noted as having mixed results.
Independent health publications and medical professionals typically recommend traditional calcium carbonate or citrate for supplementation when needed, often citing their established research and cost-effectiveness. They also consistently stress the importance of discussing any supplement with a personal healthcare provider, particularly those with pre-existing conditions or on other medications.
Critical Considerations for AlgaeCal
There are several aspects of AlgaeCal that warrant careful consideration and discussion with a doctor.
Potential Lead Contamination: In 2017, a third-party testing organization, ConsumerLab, identified higher-than-acceptable levels of lead in AlgaeCal, based on their stringent standards. While AlgaeCal is tested for purity, the possibility of natural minerals containing trace amounts of contaminants is a reality for some supplements.
Vitamin K2 and Blood Thinners: The inclusion of Vitamin K2 (Menaquinone-7) in AlgaeCal Plus is a critical ingredient for bone health, as it directs calcium to the bones. However, Vitamin K is known to interact with blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin. Individuals on such medications should avoid high doses of vitamin K unless specifically advised by their physician, as it could interfere with their medication's effectiveness.
AlgaeCal vs. Traditional Calcium Supplements: A Comparison
| Feature | AlgaeCal (Plus) | Traditional Calcium (Carbonate/Citrate) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Plant-based (marine algae) | Rock-based (limestone or marble) |
| Ingredients | Multi-nutrient formula (Calcium, Magnesium, D3, K2, Boron, trace minerals) | Primarily Calcium, often with Vitamin D |
| Claimed Efficacy | Increases bone density | Slows down annual bone loss |
| Clinical Evidence | Proprietary, company-funded studies published in peer-reviewed journals | Extensive, often mixed research, with general consensus on slowing bone loss |
| Digestive Tolerance | Generally well-tolerated, less constipation reported due to nutrient balance | Carbonate often needs food for absorption; may cause constipation |
| Cost | Often more expensive due to specialized sourcing and formula | Generally more affordable |
| Key Considerations | Contains strontium (affects DEXA); potential trace lead; K2 interacts with blood thinners | Established track record, but absorption and digestive issues can occur |
How to Discuss AlgaeCal with Your Doctor
Because the medical community lacks a single, unified position on AlgaeCal, a personalized discussion with your physician is the most prudent step. Here are some pointers for that conversation:
- Bring the data: Be prepared to discuss AlgaeCal's website claims and specific studies. Having copies of the published papers or links can help your doctor understand the evidence you're reviewing.
- Disclose all medications: It is vital to inform your doctor of any blood thinners or other medications you take, due to the Vitamin K2 content.
- Mention test results: If you have had DEXA scans, discuss past results and mention the potential for strontium to influence future readings.
- Talk about the risks: Ask your doctor about the ConsumerLab report on potential lead contamination and their opinion on the product's safety.
- Explore alternatives: Be open to discussing other bone-building strategies, including diet, exercise, and alternative, more widely-vetted supplements.
The Bottom Line: Do Doctors Recommend AlgaeCal?
There is no simple 'yes' or 'no' answer to whether doctors universally recommend AlgaeCal. Some doctors, especially those with an integrative or anti-aging focus, may recommend it based on the company-sponsored research and its multi-nutrient formula. However, many mainstream medical professionals maintain a more cautious stance, emphasizing the importance of diet, exercise, and evidence-backed lifestyle changes over any single supplement. They are likely to raise questions about the implications of strontium on DEXA results and the potential for contaminants. Ultimately, the decision to take AlgaeCal should be made in close consultation with a personal healthcare provider who can evaluate your specific health needs, risks, and goals.
