Calcium lactate is a calcium salt derived from lactic acid. It is a white, water-soluble powder that is commonly used as a dietary calcium supplement and food additive. In this article, we will discuss in detail what calcium lactate is, its functions, health benefits, food applications and recommended intake.

What is Calcium Lactate?

Calcium lactate is the calcium salt of lactic acid. It contains calcium and lactic acid in a 1:1 molar ratio. Chemically, its formula is C6H10CaO6. Calcium lactate is formed when lactic acid and calcium carbonate or calcium hydroxide react with each other. It is about 12% elemental calcium by weight.

Compared to other calcium salts like calcium carbonate, calcium lactate has higher solubility and absorption in the body. About 30-40% of elemental calcium from calcium lactate can be absorbed. This makes it a suitable calcium supplement option. Calcium lactate is stable and odorless in nature. It is approved by Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use as a dietary supplement and food additive.

Functions of Calcium Lactate

The main functions of calcium in the body include:

- Bone Formation: Calcium is the major mineral component of bones and teeth. It helps in building strong bones and preventing osteoporosis by maintaining adequate bone mineral density.

- Muscle Functions: Calcium regulates muscle contraction and relaxation by mediating action potentials in muscular and nervous systems. It is required for muscle relaxation after contraction and nerve transmission.

- Blood Clotting: Calcium assists in blood clotting by helping platelet aggregation and clot formation at the site of an injury.

- Cell Signaling: Cell signaling and intracellular processes rely on calcium gradients and fluxes. Calcium lactate helps maintain these calcium levels.

Health Benefits of Calcium Lactate

- Prevents Osteoporosis: Getting adequate calcium from dietary sources like calcium lactate helps build strong bones in childhood and prevent bone loss and fractures linked to osteoporosis later in life.

- Reduces Risk of Hypertension: Calcium may help regulate blood pressure to some extent by promoting vasodilation. This may reduce hypertension risk over time.

- Promotes Heart Health: Adequate calcium intake through calcium lactate may help lower high blood pressure and promote healthy heart. However, more research is still needed.

- Enhances Muscle Function: Calcium is necessary for muscle contraction and relaxation. Getting recommended intake of calcium lactate supports muscle function, strength and performance.

- Maintains Blood Levels: Calcium lactate aids in maintaining optimal serum calcium concentrations in blood which are essential for nerve conduction, muscle contraction and other cellular functions.

Food Applications of Calcium Lactate

Some key food applications of calcium lactate include:

- Dairy Products: It is commonly used as a calcium fortificant and firming agent in cheeses, yogurt, cream and other dairy items to improve texture and stabilization.

- Baked Goods: Small amounts of calcium lactate are added to baked goods like bread, cakes and muffins to improve texture, volume and structure.

- Jams and Jellies: It acts as a gelling agent in preparation of jams, jellies and fruit spreads by increasing gel strength.

- Beverages: Calcium lactate is used in calcium-fortified fruit juices, soy beverages, sports and energy drinks as a source of absorbable calcium.

Recommended Dietary Intake

The recommended dietary allowance (RDA) for calcium is:

- 1-3 years: 700mg
- 4-8 years: 1000mg
- 9-18 years: 1300mg
- 19-50 years: 1000mg
- 51-70 years: 1200mg
- 71+ years: 1200mg

Pregnant and lactating women have higher requirements. Most calcium supplements contain 300-500mg calcium lactate providing 90-150mg elemental calcium per serving. Consuming recommended amounts supports bone and overall health.

calcium lactate is a soluble calcium salt that effectively delivers absorbable calcium to the body. It supports bone mineralization, muscle function and overall health. With uses as a supplement, food fortificant and additive, calcium lactate ensures optimal calcium nutrition. Following dosage guidelines aids overall wellness.

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