Calcium is a mineral that’s crucial for many bodily processes. Here are the four best calcium supplements, according to registered dietitians.

The forms of calcium supplements vary in the amount of elemental calcium they contain, which is the amount of calcium actually used by the body, explains Pendleton.

Since calcium carbonate contains about 40% elemental calcium, a 1,250-milligram calcium carbonate supplement provides approximately 500 milligrams of usable calcium.

Calcium supplements not only help strengthen bones. They also support your heart, muscles and nerves.

After researching and testing several calcium supplements, we have identified the best calcium supplement for osteoporosis. Our top pick is the Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Calcium supplement.

Medically reviewed by Melissa Nieves, LND Calcium is an essential nutrient commonly found in dairy products, canned fish, leafy green vegetables, fortified foods, and other dietary sources. It is also ...

But elemental calcium alone shouldn't be your deciding factor when choosing a supplement, because not all forms of calcium are easily tolerated and absorbed.

The most common types of calcium supplements are calcium carbonate and calcium citrate. Calcium carbonate is the most affordable and contains the highest amount of elemental calcium per dose.

Here, registered dietitians recommend the best calcium supplements for bone health and offer expert advice on who needs a calcium supplement and why.

But elemental calcium alone shouldn't be your deciding factor when choosing a supplement, because not all forms of calcium are easily tolerated and absorbed.

[2] For women who aren’t meeting the daily calcium recommendation, calcium supplements are extremely important for supporting their bone health.