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Calcium Succinate Monohydrate

Also known as: Calcium succinate, Calcium succinate hydrate, Calcium Succinate Monohydrate

Overview

Calcium succinate monohydrate is a calcium salt derived from succinic acid, a naturally occurring dicarboxylic acid involved in the Krebs cycle. Primarily used as a calcium supplement, it aims to increase calcium intake for bone health and prevent osteoporosis, serving as an alternative to other calcium salts like calcium carbonate. It is synthesized for supplementation purposes and is not naturally abundant in the diet. As a water-soluble compound, it provides calcium ions essential for bone mineralization and other physiological functions. While calcium supplementation is extensively studied, specific high-quality clinical data on calcium succinate monohydrate itself are limited. Most evidence on calcium’s effects comes from studies on dietary calcium or other calcium salts, with robust evidence supporting its impact on bone health from systematic reviews and meta-analyses. However, direct studies on calcium succinate monohydrate are scarce, thus data are often extrapolated from general calcium supplementation research.

Benefits

Calcium supplementation, including the use of calcium succinate monohydrate, increases bone mineral density (BMD) and reduces fracture risk, particularly in older adults and postmenopausal women. A systematic review and meta-analysis supports that increasing calcium intake from dietary sources or supplements positively affects BMD and reduces fracture incidence. Benefits are most pronounced in populations at risk of calcium deficiency, such as the elderly, postmenopausal women, and individuals with osteoporosis. Meta-analyses show modest but statistically significant improvements in BMD and fracture prevention with calcium supplementation. However, some meta-analyses suggest calcium supplements might increase cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, indicating a need for cautious use. Bone density improvements typically require months to years of consistent supplementation.

How it works

Calcium ions supplied by calcium succinate contribute to bone mineralization by serving as a critical component of hydroxyapatite crystals in the bone matrix. Calcium homeostasis involves intestinal absorption, renal excretion, and bone remodeling, regulated by hormones such as parathyroid hormone (PTH) and vitamin D. Calcium channels and transporters in the gut facilitate absorption, while osteoblasts and osteoclasts mediate bone remodeling. Calcium succinate is water-soluble, potentially offering good bioavailability, though direct comparative absorption studies with other calcium salts are limited. Vitamin D status is critical for optimal calcium absorption.

Side effects

Calcium supplements, including calcium succinate monohydrate, are generally safe when used within recommended doses. Common side effects include gastrointestinal discomfort, constipation, and bloating. Uncommon side effects include hypercalcemia in excessive doses. Rare side effects include kidney stones, especially in predisposed individuals. Calcium can interfere with the absorption of certain medications, such as tetracyclines and bisphosphonates. Contraindications include hypercalcemia, hypercalciuria, and certain kidney diseases. Caution is advised in patients with kidney stones or cardiovascular risk factors due to potential increased risk. It is important to adhere to recommended dosing guidelines and consult with a healthcare provider if any adverse effects occur.

Dosage

Generally, 500 mg of elemental calcium daily is considered a baseline for supplementation in deficient individuals. Optimal dosage ranges are 1000–1200 mg of elemental calcium daily for adults, adjusted by age and sex. The upper intake level is typically set at 2000–2500 mg/day to avoid adverse effects. Divided doses improve absorption and should be taken with meals. Calcium succinate’s water solubility may allow flexible dosing; however, no specific guidelines exist distinct from other calcium salts. Vitamin D status is critical for optimal calcium absorption, and vitamin D supplementation is often recommended alongside calcium.

FAQs

Is calcium succinate monohydrate as effective as other calcium salts?

Direct comparative studies are lacking, but calcium succinate’s water solubility suggests good bioavailability similar to other soluble calcium salts.

Can calcium supplements cause kidney stones?

Excessive calcium intake can increase kidney stone risk, especially in susceptible individuals. It is important to adhere to recommended dosing guidelines.

Should calcium be taken with vitamin D?

Yes, vitamin D enhances calcium absorption and bone health benefits. Co-supplementation is often recommended for optimal results.

How long before benefits are seen?

Bone health improvements typically require months to years of consistent supplementation. Regular monitoring and adherence are important.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26420598/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of RCTs found that increasing calcium intake from dietary sources or supplements significantly improves BMD and reduces fracture risk. The study included varied populations, including elderly and postmenopausal women, and the effect sizes were clinically meaningful. This high-quality evidence supports calcium’s role in bone health.
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Calcium-succinate-monohydrate – This chemical database and regulatory review recognizes calcium succinate monohydrate as a calcium source with an established chemical identity and safety profile consistent with other calcium salts. While direct clinical trial data on calcium succinate specifically are lacking, the data provides reliable chemical and safety information from authoritative sources.
https://www.fda.gov/media/173019/download – This FDA document provides regulatory information and guidelines related to calcium supplements. It outlines the permitted uses and safety considerations for calcium compounds in food and dietary supplements, ensuring compliance with established standards.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/2/368 – This meta-analysis of RCTs involving healthy postmenopausal women found that calcium supplementation was associated with a 15% increased risk of cardiovascular events, indicating a need for risk-benefit assessment. The study highlights the importance of considering potential cardiovascular risks when recommending calcium supplements, particularly in specific populations.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2023.1142207/full – This research article explores the role of succinate in immune regulation and inflammation. It provides insights into the broader biological effects of succinate, which is a component of calcium succinate monohydrate, and its potential implications for immune-related health outcomes.