Newbie with calcium questions

I am six weeks out from surgery and have had a lot of complications.... trouble getting protein and fluids in, much less my vitamins.

I am confused about calcium. I know there are two different, basic kinds of calcium, but I don't know which is better. How is the best way to get that calcium in? Why recommendations can any of you make to me? If it matters, I am not drinking any protein drinks mixed with milk...they leave a mealy feel in my mouth.

Thanks in advance

Calcium Citrate (like Citracal, Citracal petites, Upcal D, etc.) not calcium carbonate.
Don't take it with iron because it will block the absorbtion of the iron (2 hours apart at least).
Break your doses up into 500 mg each because your body won't absorb more than that at a
time.
Vitamin D helps absorbtion.
There are chewables, pills, powder.  You can crush the pills and put it in a drink.
Take it with food, but take it before eating.

I take Citracal petites and extra D.