Calcium citrate

Calcium citrate is a calcium salt of citric acid used as a dietary calcium supplement and food additive. It is less dependent on stomach acid for absorption than calcium carbonate.

Dietary supplement: A product taken to add nutrients or other substances to the diet. Calcium citrate supplies calcium in products designed to increase dietary intake.
Citric acid: A weak organic acid found in citrus fruits and widely used in food and chemical processes. Its citrate ions bind calcium to form the salt.
Calcium: A chemical element with symbol Ca and atomic number 20, essential to bones and many biological processes. Calcium is the mineral supplied by calcium citrate.
Calcium deficiency: A state in which calcium intake or availability is insufficient for physiological needs. Calcium supplements may be used when dietary intake does not meet requirements.
Calcium carbonate: An inorganic calcium salt used in supplements, antacids, and industrial materials. It is a common alternative with a higher calcium fraction by weight but greater dependence on stomach acid.
Calcium absorption: The movement of calcium from the digestive tract into the body. Calcium citrate can be absorbed with or without food and is less dependent on gastric acidity.
Citrate: An ion or ester derived from citric acid, capable of binding metal ions. Citrate is the counterion paired with calcium in the salt.
Osteoporosis: A skeletal disease marked by reduced bone strength and increased fracture risk. Calcium intake supports bone health but does not alone prevent or treat osteoporosis.
Food additive: A substance added to food to affect its properties or processing. Calcium citrate can regulate acidity, stabilize foods, or increase their calcium content.
Gastric acid: The acidic digestive fluid secreted by glands in the stomach. Lower reliance on gastric acid helps distinguish calcium citrate from calcium carbonate.

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