Benefits and Side Effects Of Calcium Lactate

Calcium lactate is an odor less food additive that is used to enhance the flavor and texture of a variety of foods. It also enhances the calcium content of foods, increases pH, and replaces other salts.

It is a calcium salt and a less concentrated form of calcium.⁽¹⁾ Despite of lactate in its name, it is safe for people with lactose intolerance.

Calcium lactate can also be added to animal feed or can be used to treat water and make it suitable for consumption.⁽²⁾

Foods containing calcium lactate are:

• Nectar
• Butter, and margarine, and other types of fats
• Jams, marmalades, jellies
• Beer
• Canned fruits and vegetables

Calcium lactate can also be added to fresh foods such as mozzarella cheese, fresh pasta, and precut fruits. It helps maintain their extent of shelf life.^(2,3)

Calcium lactate can decrease total cholesterol levels.

A study done on 43 people with hyperlipidemia found, the group that was given calcium lactate with vitamin C, 3 times a day for 4 weeks had a decrease in the cholesterol level by 4%.⁽⁴⁾

A calcium-rich diet can also lower systolic blood pressure in those suffering from high blood pressure.⁽⁵⁾

More studies are needed to validate the role of calcium lactate in heart health.

Adding calcium lactate to xylitol chewing gum remineralize lesion on tooth enamel.⁽⁶⁾

Calcium lactate pre-rinse can help protect fluoride and prevent tooth enamel erosion. The research found using calcium lactate pre-rinse followed by fluoride rinse significantly reduced surface loss of enamel.⁽⁷⁾

Another study did not see any effect in plaque fluoride concentration after calcium lactate pre-rinse.⁽⁸⁾ Due to mixed results, further studies are needed to determine the benefit of calcium lactate on oral health.

Vitamin D and calcium supplements, if taken together can contribute to the development and maintenance of strong and healthy bones.^{(9, 10)}

Calcium if taken in an appropriate amount during pregnancy can decrease the risk of preeclampsia.⁽¹¹⁾

Preeclampsia is a serious complication that affects 14% of pregnant females worldwide.⁽¹²⁾

High calcium intake in the form of foods or supplements reduces the risk of colon cancer. ⁽⁹⁾ More research is needed on the same.

Calcium lactate is well-tolerated in small doses. High calcium intake can lead to some side effects that include constipation, a decrease in absorption of iron and zinc, dry mouth, increased urination, and a decrease in appetite.

High calcium levels in the blood can lead to serious side effects such as poor kidney function, kidney stones, high urine level of calcium, and hardening of blood vessels and soft tissue.

Calcium supplements can also interact with some medications such as antibiotics and thyroid medications.⁽¹³⁾

Calcium lactate is a commercially available food additive that can stabilize, thicken, flavor, firm, or leaven food. It is added to packaged foods and can also be added to fresh up cheese, pasta, and fruits.

Excess calcium intake can be dangerous. The advice can be taken from a healthcare professional on how to safely take it.