Tums for Calcium

[Kitchenbuddy]

Has anyone been told to take Tums for calcium? My digestive specialist recommended it as I have GERD along with swallowing problem and I am concerned about being on Protonix for so long. Trying to improve my osteoporosis naturally. I take several supplements and just trying to get the amount of calcium that is recommended.

[Cologne1]

I take Tums and it is just at good as any other supplement. My Gynecologist recommended it and said it was cheaper than the other stuff.

[Kitchenbuddy in reply to Cologne1]

Thank you!

[Aerobics-Instructor]

Given you have GERD, taking Tums (or store-brand) calcium carbonate makes perfect sense to me. Even if it isn't absorbed quite as well as Calcium Citrate, you will still be helping both your bones and your stomach at the same time! And the fruit flavored chewable Tums taste good.

[Mark_ABH]

Hi Kitchenbuddy, many people take Tums (and other calcium carbonate antacids) as a calcium supplement. It's cheap and readily available. More expensive specialty calcium supplements don't necessarily have strong evidence to back up their claims.

Here is a good resource from American Bone Health about getting the best out of your calcium supplement: americanbonehealth.org/nutr...

The medicine you take for your stomach, Protonix, is a proton pump inhibitor. PPIs affect how your body absorbs calcium, and they may increase risk of fractures over time. It's worth discussing with your health care provider how you can manage this side effect of your medicine.

Read more about medicines that can harm the bones here: americanbonehealth.org/bone...

[Kitchenbuddy]

I agree. I have discussed the protonix issue with my doctor; however I have a barrett's esophagus and he is adamant that I need the protonix. Thanks for your input!

[Mark_ABH in reply to Kitchenbuddy]

Just because a medicine that works has certain side effects doesn't mean it's "bad for you." You just have to balance the benefits with the risks. Good on you and your doctor for having the conversation. (By the way, all medicines have side effects!)

[FearFracture]

I went with my senior aunt to her endocrinologist appt recently. Her doctor said taking tums for calcium is fine. She has issues swallowing other calcium supplements and the tums work well because you chew them up.

[Kitchenbuddy]

Thank you! This is encouraging news. I know as a therapist myself I have treated patients who have had many problems with other treatments and then following the members to learn as much as I can I am okay not taking other medications. Its a scary situation with osteoporosis and I want to stay active and independent. Thanks for all the support.