Buffered Vitamin C
Allergy Research Group
Score 58
Primarily a buffered Vitamin C product with basic calcium and magnesium in less absorbable carbonate forms, but the 1mg Vitamin C dose is likely a data error.
Score 58
Primarily a buffered Vitamin C product with basic calcium and magnesium in less absorbable carbonate forms, but the 1mg Vitamin C dose is likely a data error.
Analysis
Allergy Research Group's 'Buffered Vitamin C' includes a small amount of calcium (190mg) and magnesium (104mg) in carbonate forms. While these forms are economical, they are generally less bioavailable than citrates or chelates. The most concerning aspect is the listed Vitamin C dosage of just 1mg, which is highly unlikely for a product marketed as 'Buffered Vitamin C' and would provide negligible benefit.
Assuming the 1mg Vitamin C is a data error and it's intended to be a higher dose (e.g., 1 gram), the product would then serve as a buffered Vitamin C supplement with basic mineral support. However, for dedicated calcium and magnesium supplementation, the forms used are not optimal for absorption.
Pros
- Very low price per serving.
- Contains calcium and magnesium for basic mineral support.
- Capsule form is convenient for regular intake.
- Theoretically offers buffered Vitamin C (assuming dosage error).
Cons
- The listed 1mg Vitamin C dose is almost certainly a data error and provides no practical benefit.
- Calcium and magnesium are provided in less bioavailable carbonate forms.
- Not a primary or effective source for robust calcium and magnesium supplementation.
- Lacks Vitamin D for calcium absorption.
Warnings
- If the Vitamin C dosage is truly 1mg, it offers no significant Vitamin C benefits; clarify with the manufacturer if this is a concern.
- Calcium and magnesium carbonates can sometimes cause digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals.
- Those relying on this for substantial calcium or magnesium should seek alternatives with more bioavailable forms.
$18.39($0.30 per serving)
 Pure Formulas | $ 18.39 | |
 iHerb | $ 18.39 | |
 Vitacost | $ 18.39 |
Goals
Impact
Moderate effect
Offers basic quantities of calcium and magnesium for general mineral needs, but the forms are not optimal for broad systemic benefits.
Impact
Moderate effect
While containing calcium and magnesium, the lower doses and less bioavailable carbonate forms make it a less effective choice for robust bone health support compared to others.
Impact
Moderate effect
The less absorbable forms of calcium and magnesium mean this product provides only basic support for cardiovascular functions, rather than targeted benefits.
Impact
Moderate effect
With lower bioavailability of calcium and magnesium carbonate, the contribution to cardiovascular support is modest at best compared to more specialized supplements.
Impact
Moderate effect
The 'buffered' aspect likely refers to the Vitamin C, not the minerals; carbonate forms can sometimes cause mild digestive upset for some individuals.
Impact
Moderate effect
The limited bioavailability of the calcium and magnesium forms may offer minimal support for general structural elements like nail health.
Impact
Moderate effect
The lower doses and less bioavailable forms of essential electrolytes limit its effectiveness for supporting rigorous fitness and muscle function needs.
Impact
Moderate effect
The less absorbable magnesium carbonate is unlikely to provide significant impact on neurotransmitter function or relaxation for mood support.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Vitamin C | 1 mg |
Calcium | 190 mg |
Magnesium | 104 mg |
Calcium 55
Calcium is provided in carbonate form, which is less bioavailable than other forms and requires stomach acid for absorption, limiting its overall quality.
Magnesium 55
Magnesium carbonate is a less absorbable form of magnesium and may not be as effective for systemic benefits compared to chelated or citrate forms.
Alternative products
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For a slightly lower cost per serving, this product delivers calcium and magnesium from brown rice aminoate complexes with a whole food blend, appealing to those seeking plant-derived mineral sources.
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Chelated Cal-Mag
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This option provides calcium as bisglycinate and magnesium as glycinate chelate, forms often favored for enhanced absorption. It offers a well-absorbed mineral complex for a modest price per serving.
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With calcium and magnesium in amino acid chelate forms, this product aims for potentially better absorption. It offers a balanced mineral profile for a slightly increased per-serving cost, providing good value for efficacy.
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This product features calcium and magnesium as soy amino acid chelates, which are often utilized for their potential ease of absorption. It provides a balanced mineral supplement, presenting good value for its specialized forms.
89 Performance
Organic Plant Calcium
Garden of Life MyKind Organics
This alternative provides organic plant-based calcium and magnesium from algae, combined with both Vitamin D and K2. This comprehensive blend can contribute to enhanced bone density and cardiovascular support.
88 Performance
Bone Builder Extra Strength
Metagenics
Featuring Microcrystalline Hydroxyapatite (MCHC), this product offers a natural matrix of calcium, phosphorus, and other trace minerals in a form that supports overall bone structure and integrity.
88 Performance
Bone Restore with Vitamin K2
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This option combines highly bioavailable calcium forms with Vitamin D3, zinc, manganese, silicon, and importantly, Vitamin K2, which often works with calcium and D3 to support both bone and heart health.