Calcium lactate is an inorganic calcium salt that provides calcium along with lactic acid. It is commonly used as a dietary calcium supplement and has various applications in food, pharmaceutical and other industries.

Chemical Properties
Calcium lactate is the calcium salt of lactic acid with the chemical formula C6H10CaO6. It is a white, crystalline powder that is odorless and has a slightly salty taste. Being a calcium salt, it readily dissociates into calcium and lactate ions when dissolved in water or digested. Calcium lactate has a neutral pH and is considered very stable and non-hygroscopic in nature.

Sources and Production
Calcium Lactate can be produced both naturally and synthetically. Naturally, it forms during lactic acid fermentation of milk products like yogurt and kefir. It can also be produced commercially by the reaction of calcium salts like calcium carbonate or calcium hydroxide with lactic acid. The main method involves neutralizing lactic acid solution with calcium hydroxide followed by crystallization to obtain calcium lactate crystals.

Applications
Some key applications of calcium lactate include:

- Dietary Supplements: It is widely used as a calcium fortification agent in dietary supplements like calcium tablets due to its high calcium content and bioavailability.

- Food Industry: Calcium lactate finds application as a leavening agent and firming agent in baked goods. It is also used to fortify foods like cereal, juices, yogurt etc.

- Pharmaceutical Aids: In the pharmaceutical industry, calcium lactate is used as an excipient in effervescent and chewable tablets owing to its stable and non-hygroscopic nature.

- Cosmetics: It acts as a pH buffer and moisture retention agent in cosmetic products like lotions, creams and hair conditioners.

- Other Uses: Other minor uses include as a fermentation nutrient, clarifying agent in beer and as a concrete setting accelerator.

Nutritional Attributes
Calcium lactate contains 13% elemental calcium by weight, which makes it a rich source of this important mineral. Some key nutritional attributes are:

- Highly Absorbable Calcium: Studies show calcium from calcium lactate is well absorbed in the body, around 60-65% absorption.

- Calcium and Lactic Acid Combination: Provides the benefits of calcium along with lactic acid, which aids in improving calcium absorption.

- Other Minerals: It also contains small amounts of minerals like potassium and trace elements that enhance its nutritional value.

- Low Sodium Content: Sodium content is negligible, so it can be consumed by people watching their sodium intake.

Health Benefits
Owing to its high calcium content and absorbability, calcium lactate offers the following health benefits:

Bone Health
- Builds peak bone mass: Calcium is essential for bone mineralization during growth years to build strong bones.

- Prevents osteoporosis: Adequate calcium through diet prevents bone loss associated with osteoporosis later in life.

Muscle Function
- Facilitates muscle contraction and relaxation by regulating levels of calcium ions in the body.

Heart Health
- Maintains normal blood pressure as calcium helps regulate vascular contraction and relaxation.

- Reduces risk of stroke by preventing calcification of arterial walls.

Other Benefits
- May help in weight management and prevent congenital disabilities in infants by supplying required calcium.

Safety and Side Effects
Calcium lactate is generally well tolerated in recommended doses. Some possible side effects in excess consumption include:

- Gas, bloating and mild abdominal discomfort due to undigested lactate reaching the colon.

- Constipation if combined with low fluid or fiber intake.

- Interactions with certain medications like antibiotics are possible due to decreased absorption.

Dosage Guidelines
The recommended daily calcium intake from supplements is 1000-1300 mg. For calcium lactate, typical supplemental dosages range from 500-1000 mg taken once or twice daily with meals for maximum absorption. Pregnant/lactating women may require more calcium. It is best to consult a healthcare practitioner before taking in large doses.

calcium lactate is a calcium supplement with high calcium bioavailability and minimal side effects. Along with other calcium-rich foods like dairy, it helps promote bone and heart health throughout life. Its wide applications make it a valuable ingredient for food, pharmaceutical and various other industries as well. Ensuring adequate intake through supplements is important, especially for people at risk of calcium deficiency.

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