What is calcium citrate malate made of?

November 21, 2025 •

2 min read

Over 99% of the body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth, emphasizing its critical role in skeletal health. Understanding what is calcium citrate malate made of is essential for anyone seeking a highly absorbable form of this vital mineral for better bone density and overall wellness. This unique compound is synthesized from three distinct components, which work synergistically to enhance absorption.

Quick Summary

Calcium citrate malate is a highly bioavailable calcium supplement composed of calcium ions, citrate ions from citric acid, and malate ions from malic acid, chelated together in a variable composition to ensure optimal absorption.

Key Points

Three Main Components: Calcium citrate malate (CCM) is composed of three distinct chemical parts: calcium, citrate (from citric acid), and malate (from malic acid).
Chelated Structure: Calcium is 'chelated' or bonded to the citrate and malate organic acids, a molecular structure that significantly enhances its solubility and absorption.
High Bioavailability: The unique chelated composition of CCM results in a highly bioavailable form of calcium, meaning the body can absorb and utilize it more effectively than other common types.
Effective with or without Food: Unlike calcium carbonate, CCM is well-absorbed regardless of whether it is taken with or without food, making it a flexible supplement option.
Suitable for Low Stomach Acid: Due to its high solubility, CCM is particularly beneficial for individuals with lower stomach acid, such as the elderly, who may struggle to absorb other forms of calcium.
Protects Against Kidney Stones: Research indicates that CCM may actually help protect against kidney stone formation, unlike some other calcium supplements.

The Three Core Components of Calcium Citrate Malate

Calcium citrate malate (CCM) is a soluble compound combining calcium with two organic acids: citric acid and malic acid. This chelation process, bonding calcium to organic molecules, enhances its absorption compared to other calcium supplements.

Calcium Source

Calcium in CCM is typically sourced from compounds like calcium carbonate ($CaCO_3$), calcium hydroxide ($Ca(OH)_2$), or calcium oxide ($CaO$). This source reacts with organic acids to form the final product, providing the calcium needed for bone health, muscle function, and nerve transmission.

Citric Acid

Citric acid ($C_6H_8O_7$), found in citrus fruits, contributes citrate ions. Citrate increases solubility, improving bioavailability, and chelates with calcium, protecting it from substances that hinder absorption.

Malic Acid

Malic acid ($C_4H_6O_5$), found in fruits like apples, provides malate ions that further enhance solubility and bioavailability by chelating with calcium. The ratio of malic to citric acid can vary.

The Synthesis Process of Calcium Citrate Malate

CCM is created through a controlled chemical reaction. Citric and malic acids are dissolved in water, and a calcium compound is added. This mixture reacts to form the soluble complex. The resulting product is then dried and ground into a powder for supplements.

Calcium Citrate Malate vs. Other Calcium Supplements

CCM offers advantages due to its composition, leading to higher bioavailability and better tolerance. Its solubility allows effective absorption with or without food and is suitable for those with low stomach acid.


Feature	Calcium Citrate Malate (CCM)	Calcium Carbonate	Calcium Citrate
Composition	Calcium, Citric Acid, Malic Acid	Calcium, Carbonate	Calcium, Citric Acid
Source	Produced via reaction with organic acids	Mined mineral (limestone)	Calcium salt of citric acid
Bioavailability	Very high due to chelation and high solubility	Lower than CCM, requires stomach acid for absorption	High, but CCM may be slightly higher due to malic acid
Absorption	Can be taken with or without food	Best absorbed with food and sufficient stomach acid	Can be taken with or without food, but CCM is superior
Kidney Stone Risk	May reduce risk of stone formation	Small potential to increase risk in some individuals	No increased risk
Cost	More costly due to manufacturing process	Generally inexpensive and widely available	Moderately priced

Conclusion

Calcium citrate malate is made of calcium chelated with citrate and malate anions. This combination of a calcium source, citric acid, and malic acid creates a highly soluble and bioavailable complex. Its chelated nature ensures effective absorption, even for individuals with low stomach acid, making it a preferred option for calcium supplementation and bone health.

The Health Benefits of Calcium Citrate Malate

For more detailed information on CCM, its health benefits, and its comparison with other supplements, see the article on The Health Benefits of Calcium Citrate Malate.

Frequently Asked Questions

The primary calcium source used in the manufacturing of calcium citrate malate is typically calcium carbonate, though calcium hydroxide or calcium oxide can also be used.

Citric acid contributes citrate ions to the complex, which increases the supplement's water solubility and helps chelate the calcium ions, protecting them for better absorption in the digestive tract.

Malic acid contributes malate ions that further enhance the solubility and overall bioavailability of calcium citrate malate.

While the components—calcium, citric acid, and malic acid—are natural, calcium citrate malate itself is a manufactured, metastable complex created by reacting these ingredients in a specific way to maximize its properties.

The specific synthesis process, which involves reacting the ingredients in an aqueous solution and drying the mixture, is what creates the unique chelated and highly soluble form of calcium citrate malate.

Calcium citrate malate has higher bioavailability and can be absorbed effectively with or without food. Calcium carbonate, in contrast, requires sufficient stomach acid and is best absorbed when taken with food.

Yes, some studies suggest that calcium citrate malate may help protect against the formation of kidney stones, unlike some other forms of calcium.

No, the exact molecular formula and composition of calcium citrate malate can vary slightly depending on the specific manufacturing process and the molar ratios used.