Calcium Supplements: Complete Guide to Best Calcium Tablets, Vitamin D & Bone Health (Australia 2025)

What Are Calcium Supplements?

Calcium supplements are dietary supplements designed to help you meet your daily calcium requirements when you can't get enough from food alone. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in your body and is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth, supporting muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting.

In Australia, calcium supplements come in various forms including calcium tablets, calcium citrate, calcium carbonate, calcium gummies, and liquid calcium. Many are combined with vitamin D3 to enhance absorption, as vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium more effectively.

Why Do You Need Calcium Supplements?

While calcium-rich foods like dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods are the best sources, many Australians don't get enough calcium from their diet alone. The Australian recommended daily intake (RDI) for calcium varies by age and gender:

• Adults (19-50 years): 1,000mg per day
• Women (51+ years): 1,300mg per day
• Men (51-70 years): 1,000mg per day
• Men (71+ years): 1,300mg per day
• Pregnant & breastfeeding women: 1,000-1,300mg per day
• Children (9-18 years): 1,300mg per day
• Children (4-8 years): 700mg per day

Best Calcium Supplements in Australia: Top Brands Compared

1. Ostelin Calcium & Vitamin D3

Ostelin calcium is one of Australia's most trusted calcium supplement brands, available at Chemist Warehouse and other pharmacies. Ostelin offers calcium tablets combined with vitamin D3, which is crucial for calcium absorption. Their products are specifically formulated for Australian conditions and are often recommended by healthcare professionals.

2. Caltrate Calcium

Caltrate calcium (also known as Caltrate Vitamin D) is another popular choice in Australia. Caltrate offers calcium carbonate tablets, which are one of the most common forms of calcium supplements. Caltrate products are widely available and often come with added vitamin D3 for better absorption.

3. Swisse Calcium + Vitamin D

Swisse is a well-known Australian supplement brand offering calcium supplements combined with vitamin D. Swisse calcium products are available in tablet form and are popular among health-conscious Australians.

4. Blackmores Calcium

Blackmores calcium supplements are another trusted option available in Australian pharmacies. Blackmores offers various calcium formulations, including calcium citrate supplements and calcium carbonate options.

Calcium Citrate vs Calcium Carbonate: Which Is Better?

Understanding the difference between calcium citrate and calcium carbonate is crucial when choosing the best calcium supplement for your needs.

Vitamin D and Calcium: Why They Work Together

Vitamin D and calcium work synergistically to support bone health. Vitamin D helps your intestines absorb calcium from food and supplements, while also helping your kidneys reabsorb calcium that would otherwise be lost in urine.

Most Australians don't get enough vitamin D from sunlight, especially during winter months. This is why many calcium supplements include vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol), the most effective form of vitamin D. The combination of vitamin D and calcium is particularly important for:

• Preventing osteoporosis
• Supporting bone density
• Reducing fracture risk
• Supporting muscle function
• Maintaining healthy teeth

Calcium Supplements for Pregnancy

Calcium tablets for pregnancy and calcium supplements for pregnancy are essential for both maternal and fetal bone health. During pregnancy, your body needs extra calcium to support your baby's developing skeleton and maintain your own bone density.

Pregnant women should aim for 1,000-1,300mg of calcium daily. Many healthcare providers recommend calcium supplements for pregnancy that include vitamin D3 to ensure optimal absorption. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement during pregnancy.

Kids Calcium Supplements

Calcium supplement for kids and kids calcium supplement products are designed to support growing bones and teeth. Children and teenagers need adequate calcium to build peak bone mass, which helps prevent osteoporosis later in life.

Calcium gummies are a popular option for children who have trouble swallowing tablets. These kid-friendly calcium supplements often come in fun flavors and shapes, making them more appealing to children. However, it's important to keep them out of reach, as children may mistake them for candy.

For babies, baby calcium supplement options are available, but most babies get adequate calcium from breast milk or formula. Always consult with a pediatrician before giving supplements to infants.

Plant-Based Calcium Supplements

Plant based calcium supplements are becoming increasingly popular among vegans, vegetarians, and those with dairy allergies. These supplements are derived from plant sources like algae, seaweed, or certain vegetables.

Some plant-based options include:

• Algae-based calcium (high bioavailability)
• Calcium from leafy greens like moringa powder (185mg per 100g)
• Calcium hydroxyapatite (from bone, but can be plant-sourced)

When choosing plant based calcium supplements, look for products that also include vitamin D3 and vitamin K2, as these nutrients work together to support bone health. Moringa powder naturally contains calcium along with vitamin K, making it an excellent plant-based option for bone support.

Best Calcium Tablets for Bones

When looking for the best calcium tablets for bones, consider products that combine calcium with other bone-supporting nutrients:

• Calcium + Vitamin D3: Essential for calcium absorption
• Calcium + Magnesium: Magnesium helps convert vitamin D into its active form
• Calcium + Vitamin K2: Helps direct calcium to bones instead of arteries
• Calcium Hydroxyapatite: A form that closely resembles bone structure

For those with specific bone health concerns, calcium hydroxyapatite supplements may be particularly beneficial, as this form contains both calcium and phosphorus in a ratio similar to that found in bones.

Should I Take Calcium Supplements?

Many people ask: "Should I take calcium supplements?" The answer depends on several factors:

However, it's always best to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplement regimen. They can help determine if you need calcium supplements and recommend the right dosage and form for your needs.

What Is the Best Calcium Supplement?

When asking "What is the best calcium supplement?" or "What is the best calcium supplement?", consider:

1. Your individual needs: Age, gender, health conditions
2. Form preference: Tablets, gummies, or liquid
3. Bioavailability: How well your body can absorb it
4. Additional nutrients: Vitamin D3, magnesium, vitamin K2
5. Quality: Look for reputable brands and third-party testing
6. Price: Consider cost per serving

For most people, calcium carbonate with vitamin D3 is a good starting point, as it's affordable and effective. However, if you have low stomach acid or take acid-reducing medications, calcium citrate may be a better choice.

Calcium Foods vs Supplements

While calcium foods should be your primary source of calcium, supplements can help fill the gap. The best calcium foods include:

• Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
• Leafy greens (kale, broccoli, bok choy)
• Sardines and canned salmon (with bones)
• Fortified foods (cereals, plant milks)
• Almonds and sesame seeds
• Tofu (calcium-set)
• Beans and lentils
• Oranges and figs

Dietary calcium from food is generally better absorbed than calcium from supplements. However, if you can't meet your needs through food alone, supplements are a safe and effective option.

Where to Buy Calcium Supplements in Australia

Calcium supplements are widely available in Australia at:

• Chemist Warehouse: One of the most popular destinations for calcium chemist warehouse products. They offer competitive prices on brands like Ostelin, Caltrate, and Swisse.
• iHerb: Online retailer offering a wide selection of iHerb calcium supplements, including international brands and specialty formulations.
• Pharmacies: Local pharmacies stock major brands
• Health food stores: Often carry organic and plant-based options
• Online retailers: Convenient home delivery options

Magnesium and Calcium Supplements

Magnesium calcium supplement combinations are popular because magnesium helps convert vitamin D into its active form, which is essential for calcium absorption. Some people take magnesium tablets or magnesium supplement products alongside their calcium supplements.

Magnesium glycinate is a highly bioavailable form of magnesium that's gentle on the stomach. When combined with calcium, it can support overall bone health and muscle function.

Side Effects and Safety

While calcium supplements are generally safe when taken as directed, some people may experience:

• Constipation (especially with calcium carbonate)
• Gas or bloating
• Nausea
• Kidney stones (if taken in excess)

To minimize side effects:

• Take calcium supplements with food
• Drink plenty of water
• Start with a lower dose and gradually increase
• Consider calcium citrate if you experience constipation
• Don't exceed the recommended daily intake

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)