What is Calcium Citrate Tetrahydrate? A Comprehensive Guide
Calcium citrate tetrahydrate is a chemical compound that plays a significant role in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, dietary supplements, and food production. This article will delve into what calcium citrate tetrahydrate is, its properties, benefits, and applications, making it an essential read for anyone interested in nutrition, health, or chemistry.
What is Calcium Citrate Tetrahydrate?
Calcium citrate tetrahydrate is a calcium salt of citric acid, specifically a hydrated form that contains four water molecules (hence the name “tetrahydrate”). Its chemical formula is C12H10Ca3O14·4H2O, and it is commonly represented in its crystalline form, which appears as a white powder. This compound is known for its excellent solubility in water compared to other calcium salts, making it a preferred choice in various applications.
Properties of Calcium Citrate Tetrahydrate
1. Solubility: One of the most notable properties of calcium citrate tetrahydrate is its high solubility in water, which enhances its bioavailability in the human body. This means that the body can absorb and utilize the calcium more effectively compared to other forms, such as calcium carbonate.
2. pH Neutrality: Calcium citrate tetrahydrate is less acidic than other calcium supplements, making it gentler on the stomach. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals who may experience gastrointestinal discomfort from other calcium supplements.
3. Calcium Content: It contains approximately 21% elemental calcium, making it a good source of this essential mineral.
Health Benefits of Calcium Citrate Tetrahydrate
1. Bone Health: Calcium is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth. Adequate calcium intake, particularly in the form of calcium citrate tetrahydrate, can help prevent osteoporosis and support overall skeletal health.
2. Supplement for Vitamin D Deficiency: Individuals who have difficulty absorbing calcium or those with vitamin D deficiency can benefit from calcium citrate tetrahydrate, as it enhances calcium absorption even in low vitamin D conditions.
3. Kidney Health: Calcium citrate can help prevent kidney stones by reducing urinary oxalate levels, which are responsible for the formation of certain types of stones.
4. Dietary Supplement: As a dietary supplement, calcium citrate tetrahydrate can be an excellent option for those who do not consume enough calcium through their diet, particularly postmenopausal women, individuals with lactose intolerance, and vegans.
Applications of Calcium Citrate Tetrahydrate
1. Dietary Supplements: Calcium citrate tetrahydrate is widely used in dietary supplements due to its high bioavailability and gentle nature on the digestive system. It is often found in multivitamins and calcium-specific supplements.
2. Food Industry: In the food industry, calcium citrate tetrahydrate is used as a food additive. It acts as a preservative, stabilizer, and acidity regulator in various food products.
3. Pharmaceuticals: This compound is also utilized in the formulation of various pharmaceutical products, including antacids and medications aimed at regulating calcium levels in the body.
4. Cosmetics: Calcium citrate tetrahydrate may be found in some cosmetic formulations, where it serves as a stabilizing agent or pH regulator.
Conclusion
In summary, calcium citrate tetrahydrate is a versatile and highly beneficial compound that serves various purposes in health, nutrition, and industry. Its superior solubility and bioavailability make it an excellent choice for calcium supplementation, while its applications in food and pharmaceuticals further highlight its importance. For anyone looking to enhance their calcium intake or interested in the science behind dietary supplements, understanding calcium citrate tetrahydrate is essential. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to ensure it aligns with your individual health needs.