Raw Calcium
Garden of Life Vitamin Code
Raw Calcium
4.6
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(4001 ratings)
Vanadium 25 mcg
Silicon 2.2 mg
Boron 3 mg
Vitamin K 120 mcg
Magnesium 357 mg
Calcium 1100 mg
Strontium 3.8 mg
Score 85.0
A high-quality, plant-based calcium supplement with essential co-factors (D3, K2, Magnesium), trace minerals, and probiotics for comprehensive bone health and enhanced absorption.
Quantity: 60 Capsule(s)Servings size: 2 Capsule(s) (30 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Heart Health
Muscle Gain
Bone Health
Joint Health
Hair Health
leaderboard Score 85.0
A high-quality, plant-based calcium supplement with essential co-factors (D3, K2, Magnesium), trace minerals, and probiotics for comprehensive bone health and enhanced absorption.
insights Analysis
Garden of Life Vitamin Code Raw Calcium is a well-formulated bone support supplement that goes beyond just calcium and vitamin D. It provides 1100mg of plant-sourced calcium from algae, which is often considered more bioavailable and natural than rock-sourced calcium carbonate. Crucially, it includes key co-factors like Vitamin D3 (40mcg/1600IU), a significant amount of Vitamin K (170mcg, including K2 which is essential for directing calcium to bones), and a good dose of magnesium (357mg) to ensure proper calcium utilization and prevent arterial calcification. The addition of trace minerals like boron, strontium, and silica, along with a raw probiotic and enzyme blend, further enhances its holistic approach to bone and overall health, aiming for better digestion and absorption of nutrients. However, its premium formulation comes with a higher price per serving.
- Features highly bioavailable plant-sourced calcium (algae) with key co-factors Vitamin D3 and K2.
- Includes a comprehensive blend of bone-supporting minerals like magnesium, boron, strontium, and silica.
- Contains a raw probiotic and enzyme blend to aid digestion and nutrient absorption.
- Offers excellent doses of Vitamin D3 and Vitamin K for calcium metabolism.
- Vegan-friendly formulation from whole-food sources.
- The price per serving is relatively high compared to many conventional calcium supplements.
- Requires a higher pill count per serving (typically 4 capsules) which can be inconvenient for some users.
- The quantities of some trace minerals like vanadium and strontium are relatively low, and their broader impact at these doses may be limited.
- Individuals taking anticoagulant medications (blood thinners) should consult a healthcare professional before use due to the high Vitamin K content, which can interfere with medication effects.
- While comprehensive, it's important to ensure overall dietary intake aligns with supplemental dosages to avoid excessive nutrient intake.
$20.15($0.67 per serving)
 iHerb | $ 20.15 | |
 Pure Formulas | $ 22.39 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
Vitamin D3 is critical for calcium absorption in the gut, ensuring that the body can utilize the calcium consumed. Without adequate Vitamin D3, calcium absorption is significantly impaired. It also plays a role in bone mineralization.
Calcium is a primary building block for bones, while magnesium plays a crucial role in activating vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption. Magnesium also contributes directly to bone mineral density. Both minerals are vital for maintaining strong and healthy bones.
Vitamin K, particularly K2, is important for directing calcium to the bones and teeth, where it's needed, and away from arteries and soft tissues. It activates proteins like osteocalcin, which binds calcium to the bone matrix. This synergy helps ensure calcium is properly utilized for bone mineralization.
Boron can influence the metabolism of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D, potentially enhancing bone mineral density. Silica is thought to play a role in bone and connective tissue formation, while strontium may also contribute to bone metabolism. These trace minerals are present in smaller amounts but are considered supportive.
Probiotics and digestive enzymes can support a healthy gut microbiome and aid in the breakdown and absorption of nutrients from food and supplements. A healthy digestive system may enhance the bioavailability of minerals like calcium and magnesium, allowing the body to utilize them more effectively.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
Many supplements combine calcium and magnesium, as these minerals work synergistically for bone health and other bodily functions. Taking them together is generally acceptable, although very high doses might slightly compete for absorption if consumed simultaneously. For optimal absorption or if gastrointestinal discomfort occurs, some individuals may choose to split their daily dose.
Taking mineral supplements like calcium and magnesium with food can often enhance absorption and reduce the likelihood of stomach upset. Food can stimulate stomach acid production, which aids in the digestion and absorption of various minerals. It is generally recommended to consume this type of supplement alongside a meal for better tolerance and efficacy.
Vitamin D3 plays a crucial role by enhancing the absorption of dietary calcium from the gut into the bloodstream. Once absorbed, Vitamin K2 then helps direct this calcium to its proper place, primarily into the bones and teeth, and helps prevent its deposition in soft tissues like arteries. This synergistic action is vital for maintaining strong bones and supporting cardiovascular health.
Calcium and magnesium derived from algae are often presented as whole-food forms, meaning they come with a complex of other naturally occurring trace minerals. This natural mineral matrix is believed to enhance the body's recognition and utilization of these key minerals. The plant-based source may also be preferred by individuals seeking vegetarian or vegan options.
A healthy gut microbiome, supported by probiotics, can create an optimal environment for nutrient absorption. Digestive enzymes further assist in breaking down food and nutrient compounds, including minerals, into more absorbable forms. This dual action can potentially enhance the body's ability to utilize the calcium, magnesium, and other minerals present in the supplement.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Calcium and magnesium often work together in the body for various physiological processes, including bone health and muscle function. While they can compete for absorption at very high, isolated doses, in balanced supplement formulations, they are generally considered complementary. Many supplements combine them for their synergistic roles.
Strontium and calcium share similar absorption pathways in the body and can compete with each other for uptake. To maximize the absorption of both minerals, it is often recommended to take strontium supplements a few hours apart from calcium-rich foods or supplements. This allows for optimal utilization of each.
Vitamin K, particularly K2, plays a vital role in directing calcium to the bones and teeth, where it is needed, while helping to prevent its deposition in soft tissues like arteries. It works synergistically with vitamin D to support healthy calcium metabolism and bone mineralization. This partnership is crucial for bone health.
Consuming very high amounts of calcium and vitamin D together, especially over prolonged periods, can potentially lead to hypercalcemia. This condition, characterized by excessively high calcium levels in the blood, may cause symptoms such as nausea, constipation, and in severe cases, kidney problems. It is important to adhere to recommended daily allowances for both.
Boron is an essential trace mineral that impacts the metabolism of calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D. It helps reduce the urinary excretion of calcium and magnesium, thereby supporting their retention and utilization for bone health and other functions. Boron contributes to overall mineral balance.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Vitamin C | 50 mg |
Vitamin D | 40 mcg |
Vitamin K | 120 mcg |
Calcium | 1100 mg |
Magnesium | 357 mg |
Vitamin K | 50 mcg |
Strontium | 3.8 mg |
Boron | 3 mg |
Silica | 2.2 mg |
Vanadium | 25 mcg |
Raw Probiotic & Enzyme Blend | 64 mg |
Categories
Vitamin K 95.0
The product provides an excellent dose of Vitamin K (170mcg total), specifically including K2 (50mcg, plus additional from S. cerevisiae), which is crucial for directing calcium to bones and away from arteries.
Calcium 95.0
The product delivers a high and effective dose of 1100mg of calcium from an algae source, which is well-regarded for its natural form and good absorption. It's also well-balanced with essential co-factors for utilization.
Magnesium 85.0
With 357mg of magnesium from Dead Sea Minerals and Algae, the product provides a good complementary dose to calcium, crucial for bone mineralization, muscle function, and nerve health. The forms are generally well-absorbed.
Goals
Bone Health 95.0
This product is exceptionally well-suited for bone health due to its high dose of plant-sourced calcium, coupled with crucial co-factors like Vitamin D3, Vitamin K2, and balanced magnesium, all essential for bone density and strength. The inclusion of boron, strontium, and silica further supports comprehensive bone mineralization.
Heart Health 80.0
The significant amount of Vitamin K2 is vital for preventing arterial calcification, thereby supporting heart health. Magnesium also plays a role in maintaining healthy blood pressure and heart rhythm, making this product a good supportive supplement for cardiovascular well-being.
Similar to heart health, the combination of Vitamin K2 and Magnesium provides direct benefits for cardiovascular function by promoting healthy blood vessels and regulating heart muscle activity.
Recommended Alternatives
87 Value 
Alive! Calcium Bone Formula
Nature's Way
4.7
★★★★★
(2909 ratings)
Offers a highly comparable and comprehensive blend of plant-based calcium, magnesium, and key vitamins (D3, K2, Boron, Strontium) for bone health at a slightly more competitive price per serving (70 cents vs 74 cents).
85 Value 
Cal/Mag/Vit D3 with Vitamin K2
NaturesPlus
4.6
★★★★★
(2209 ratings)
Provides substantial doses of calcium (1200mg) and magnesium (600mg), coupled with optimal amounts of D3 and K2 for bone and cardiovascular health, representing a strong quality-to-price ratio at 69 cents per serving.
84 Value 
Vegan Plant-Based Calcium 1000 mg
PlantFusion
4.7
★★★★★
(172 ratings)
Offers a similar plant-based calcium profile to the original, including essential co-factors like D3, K2, strontium, boron, silica, and vanadium, maintaining high quality at a competitive price, making it a good alternative for those seeking plant-derived ingredients.
92 Performance 
Living Calcium Advanced
Garden of Life
4.5
★★★★★
(1753 ratings)
As a product from the same brand, it offers a similar plant-based calcium approach but with a broader range of B-vitamins and higher doses of some cofactors, potentially providing more comprehensive nutritional support.
90 Performance 
Whole-Food Multivitamin Plus Vital Minerals
Dr. Mercola
4.8
★★★★★
(602 ratings)
This is a more comprehensive whole-food multivitamin that includes robust mineral support, including calcium, magnesium, and trace elements, along with a wide array of other vitamins and fruit/vegetable blends, offering superior overall nutritional completeness.
88 Performance 
Bone Solid
Country Life
4.6
★★★★★
(725 ratings)
This alternative uses Microcrystalline Hydroxyapatite (MCHA), a highly bioavailable form of calcium naturally found in bone, combined with various magnesium forms and high K/D, which some users may prefer for direct bone matrix support.
90 Budget 
Calcium Bone Maker Complex with MCH-Cal and VitaMK7
Doctor's Best
4.7
★★★★★
(6735 ratings)
Offers excellent bone health support with bioavailable MCH-Cal and a good dose of K2 and D3 at a significantly lower price per serving (25 cents vs 74 cents).
85 Budget 
Magnesium & Calcium
NOW
4.8
★★★★★
(16706 ratings)
Provides a robust combination of calcium and magnesium with Vitamin D3 and zinc, focusing on foundational mineral support at a much more affordable price point (24 cents per serving).
75 Budget 
Alive! Women's 50+ Complete Multivitamin
Nature's Way
4.8
★★★★★
(10030 ratings)
While a broader multivitamin, it offers foundational calcium, magnesium, vitamin K, and D3 at an exceptionally low price (12 cents per serving), providing general bone support for budget-conscious consumers.
87 Value
Alive! Calcium Bone Formula
Nature's Way
4.7
★★★★★
(2909 ratings)
Offers a highly comparable and comprehensive blend of plant-based calcium, magnesium, and key vitamins (D3, K2, Boron, Strontium) for bone health at a slightly more competitive price per serving (70 cents vs 74 cents).
85 Value
Cal/Mag/Vit D3 with Vitamin K2
NaturesPlus
4.6
★★★★★
(2209 ratings)
Provides substantial doses of calcium (1200mg) and magnesium (600mg), coupled with optimal amounts of D3 and K2 for bone and cardiovascular health, representing a strong quality-to-price ratio at 69 cents per serving.
84 Value
Vegan Plant-Based Calcium 1000 mg
PlantFusion
4.7
★★★★★
(172 ratings)
Offers a similar plant-based calcium profile to the original, including essential co-factors like D3, K2, strontium, boron, silica, and vanadium, maintaining high quality at a competitive price, making it a good alternative for those seeking plant-derived ingredients.
92 Performance
Living Calcium Advanced
Garden of Life
4.5
★★★★★
(1753 ratings)
As a product from the same brand, it offers a similar plant-based calcium approach but with a broader range of B-vitamins and higher doses of some cofactors, potentially providing more comprehensive nutritional support.
90 Performance
Whole-Food Multivitamin Plus Vital Minerals
Dr. Mercola
4.8
★★★★★
(602 ratings)
This is a more comprehensive whole-food multivitamin that includes robust mineral support, including calcium, magnesium, and trace elements, along with a wide array of other vitamins and fruit/vegetable blends, offering superior overall nutritional completeness.
88 Performance
Bone Solid
Country Life
4.6
★★★★★
(725 ratings)
This alternative uses Microcrystalline Hydroxyapatite (MCHA), a highly bioavailable form of calcium naturally found in bone, combined with various magnesium forms and high K/D, which some users may prefer for direct bone matrix support.