Question:
What is the best calcium supplement for peope with or without surgery?

Hi, I would like to know of a calcium supplement that my friend can start using now that will be helpful once she gets surgery done. She cannot drink milk...so any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.    — Michelle H. (posted on March 2, 2002)

March 1, 2002
Hi, I am 5 a few days shy of 5 months post op. I use vactivcal from GNC. It tastes great. Like a little bit of chocolate candy or carmel whichever flavor you get. I love them both!!!!
   — TONYA B.

March 1, 2002
The dietician I saw recommended Citrical.
   — garw

March 1, 2002
Hi. I learned this from vitalady (Michelle Curran): bypassers don't properly absorb any form of calcium EXCEPT calcium citrate. Now, this was a surprise to me, and I did some homework on it. It's true. Among other factors, good absorption of calcium carbonate (the most common form) requires an acidic environment. Our stomachs are lacking in that department. As far as for non-bypassers and calcium, I've read various things about calcium carbonate vs calcium citrate. I'm sure Michelle will comment on this post, as I know she's been diagnosed with osteoporosis after years of taking the calcium carbonate faithfully. I use a chewable form of calcium citrate by Twinlab that I purchase at a terrific price from www.vitacost.com. I know www.vitalady also sells a calcium citrate product. JK, RN
   — Joya K.

March 2, 2002
Citrical is the best absorbed according to my nutritionist. For new post ops the Citrical Liquitabs are the best choice. They work similarly to Alka Seltzer in a glass of water. They have a pleasant Citrusy taste and are my new substitute for diet sodas. You may have to ask your pharmacist to order it for you, but my local Rite Aide pharmacist was able to have them for me in 24 hours.
   — Linda V.

March 2, 2002
Citrate form is best absorbed by EVERYONE, normie or WLS person. Citracal is one brand (take 2 pills, 3-4 times/day). Big names that are NOT citrate: Caltrate (I know, but it is carbonate); OScal; Viactiv..... these are your ticket to osteoporosis & kidney stones.
   — vitalady

March 3, 2002
I use Twinlab Chewable Calcium Citrate. The wafers are a bit large but they taste great. You need to take 4 a day and I take them immediately after my meals as sort of a "dessert".
   — Julie K.