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Cal-Mag Citrate 2:1 Ratio

Solaray
4.7
(1013 ratings)
Vitamin D 400 IU
Magnesium 500 mg
Calcium 1000 mg
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Score 55.0

High-dose calcium citrate and mixed magnesium (half oxide), with less effective Vitamin D2, at a high price.

Quantity: 90 VegCap(s)Servings size: 6 Capsule(s) (15 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Stress Relief
Mood Support
Bone Health
Sleep Support
Joint Health

Score 55.0

High-dose calcium citrate and mixed magnesium (half oxide), with less effective Vitamin D2, at a high price.

Quantity: 180
Analysis

Solaray Cal-Mag Citrate 2:1 Ratio aims to deliver significant dosages of calcium and magnesium, with calcium provided in the highly absorbable citrate form. While the total magnesium dosage is very high at 1000mg, half of it is magnesium oxide, which is known for its poor bioavailability. A notable drawback is the inclusion of Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol) instead of the more bioavailable and widely recommended Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol), and the 800 IU dose might still be insufficient for many individuals. The product also comes with a high price per serving, limiting its overall value despite the strong calcium component.

Pros
  • Provides Calcium in the highly bioavailable Citrate form, promoting better absorption.
  • Offers a very high total dosage of Calcium (1000mg) and Magnesium (1000mg).
  • The 2:1 Calcium to Magnesium ratio is commonly recommended for synergistic absorption.
Cons
  • Uses Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol), which is less effective and bioavailable than Vitamin D3.
  • A significant portion of Magnesium is in the poorly absorbed Oxide form, limiting its overall effectiveness.
  • High price per serving ($0.77) and only 15 servings per container offer poor value compared to other options.
Warnings
  • The use of Vitamin D2 may not adequately raise Vitamin D levels for individuals, especially those with deficiencies.
  • Individuals with sensitive stomachs may experience digestive discomfort due to the high dose of magnesium, especially if the oxide form is not tolerated.
$12.79($0.85 per serving)
Vitacost
$ 12.79
Walmart
$ 12.86
Amazon
$ 0.00
iHerb
$ 12.79
Ingredients
IngredientAmount per serving
Total Carbohydrates 1 Gram(s)
Vitamin D (Vitamin D2, Ergocalciferol) 400 IU
Calcium (Calcium Citrate) 1000 mg
Magnesium (Magnesium Oxide, Magnesium Citrate) 500 mg
Adults 18–50
Categories
Calcium 85.0
This product features Calcium Citrate, an excellent and highly bioavailable form of calcium that is well-absorbed regardless of stomach acid levels. This is a significant strength, positioning it well for effective calcium supplementation.
Magnesium 50.0
The blend of Magnesium Citrate (good bioavailability) and Magnesium Oxide (poor bioavailability) results in a mixed absorption profile. While a high total dose is present, the significant portion of poorly absorbed oxide limits the overall effectiveness compared to products that exclusively use highly bioavailable magnesium forms.
Vitamin D 30.0
The product utilizes Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol), which is considerably less effective at raising and maintaining Vitamin D levels in the body compared to Vitamin D3 (Cholecalciferol). This makes it a suboptimal choice for Vitamin D supplementation when superior forms are widely available.
Goals
Bone Health 60.0
The product provides a substantial dose of calcium in the well-absorbed citrate form, which is excellent for bone health. However, the suboptimal magnesium absorption due to the oxide form and the less effective Vitamin D2 mean it doesn't offer the synergistic bone support of more balanced and bioavailable formulations.
General Health 55.0
While offering high doses of essential minerals like calcium and magnesium, the compromise in bioavailability due to magnesium oxide and the less effective Vitamin D2 significantly reduces its potential for comprehensive general health support, making it an average choice in a competitive market.
Metabolism Boost 50.0
Magnesium is a vital cofactor in hundreds of metabolic processes. While a high total dose is provided, the significant presence of magnesium oxide, a poorly absorbed form, reduces its overall potential to effectively contribute to metabolic efficiency or a 'boost' in metabolism.
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(6735 ratings)
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