Does our calcium have to be a chewy bite?

I know it has to be citrate. I know we need it separated from iron. But does it have to be a chewy bite kind? I have noticed a lot of people use calcium chews, but is there a reason? Are the pills too big?

Thanks for any guidance!

I use them because it is my reference. I also have calcium citrate in pill form with magnesium, and vitamin D but I don't use them that often. I consider my calcium chews (chocolate, lemon , rasberry, and carmel) as a treat!

No, they just have to be Calcium Citrate and at least 500 mg taken 3 times a day to total 1500 mg a day. These can be chewy bites, chewable tablets, pills and powders. It's up to your personal preference.

Kat

Thanks!

I just asked my bariatric nurse this yesterday and she said they like you to be on the chewable calcium and multivitamins for the first 3 months. After that you can start taking pills instead. I don't remember why though. Probably something with absorption or something like that.

The chewable form doesn't make a difference in absorption. She may think it would be easier for you to digest rather than a pill at first. I got off chewable vitamins and supplements a month post op. I still take chewable calcium, but only because I really love them.

Kat

Calcium pills are very large, even split in half I have trouble getting them down. I really recommend chewables for at least the first few months.

I was thinking the size could be problematic. Does anyone know if stores sell chewable calcium? My local walmart only has pills and my local GNC is useless. I would like to avoid buying online if possible.

Most stores sell chewable calcium carbonate, but we can't absorb that.  Most stores do not sell chewable calcium citrate, although you might find it at Vitamin Shoppe or other health food stores.

That is definitely what I am seeing. Everything is carbonate, and I know we need citrate. My surgeon doesnt have me starting calcium until after my one month appointment. Do you think the petites would be okay at that point?