Similar to answering the question of how much of a vitamin supplement is too much (or too little), many ask what is the right amount to take of a calcium supplement. Some worry about getting too much calcium and worry that a buildup of calcium could occur causing kidney stones and other illnesses. But many studies actually show the more dietary calcium that is available for the body the LESS likely they are to have a buildup of ‘calcium deposits.'

Studies are also showing that middle-aged adults do NOT increase their risk for kidney stone formation by supplementing with calcium. A study in 2004 looked at more than 96,000 nurses between the ages of 26 and 44 over an eight year period. They found that the nurses with the highest dietary calcium in their diets were 27 percent less likely to develop kidney stones. The study concluded that "supplemental calcium is not associated with risk." (Arch Int. Med, 164:823, 2004)

The American Dietetic Association reports that 49 percent of Americans use some form of supplementation on a daily basis. Many hope that by taking a dietary supplement they will strengthen their health and fight off chronic illness. Others simply want to increase general wellness and enjoy vitality. Research shows that more Americans believe that taking a supplement is necessary to ensure good health just as many Americans believe that drinking bottled water from a known source is important for good health too.

The question then becomes how to choose a good calcium supplement. Here are some simple guidelines that many people use:

1. Find a calcium supplement that can easily be absorbed by your body. Liquid will be absorbed by your body more readily than a pill.

2. Find a calcium supplement made from Calcium Oratate. Calcium Oratate is extremely absorbable by your body because of the combination of calcium and orotic acid.

3. Find a calcium supplement that includes a blend of ingredients that support the absorption of calcium and balance the effects.

4. Make sure the calcium supplement includes Vitamin D – it helps promote calcium absorption.

5. Find a calcium supplement that includes Glucosomine to also help with joint repair. Glucosomine can be provided in both a vegan and non-vegan form depending on your personal preference.

6. Decide whether Chondroitin is for you. Chondroitin also helps joint repair but it is derived from shellfish. If you are allergic to shellfish look for a calcium supplement that does not contain chondroitin.

7. Finally, look for a calcium supplement that contains magnesium and other minerals that benefit your overall help and also increase the absorption of calcium by your body.

When taking a calcium supplement, it's all about absorption. Studies have shown that we should be able to take a calcium supplement on a regular basis. If you take a calcium supplement, you want your body to take advantage of every drop – otherwise your are simply flushing your supplement and your money down the drain.