Calcium supplements
Adults need 700mg of calcium a day, which dairy, fortified alternatives, bread and green vegetables usually cover.
Short answer Adults need 700mg of calcium a day, which dairy, fortified alternatives, bread and green vegetables usually cover. Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal bones and teeth.
Who may need more
People who avoid dairy without fortified replacements, and those advised by a doctor, often with vitamin D, for bone health.
Safe amounts
Taking 1,500mg or less a day is unlikely to cause harm; more can cause stomach pain and diarrhoea. Calcium can reduce absorption of some medicines.
Related pages
- Zinc supplementsAdults need 9.5mg (men) or 7mg (women) of zinc a day.
- Folic acidAdults need 200 micrograms of folate a day.
- BiotinBiotin contributes to the maintenance of normal hair and skin.
- Coenzyme Q10Coenzyme Q10 is made by the body and helps cells produce energy.
Keep exploring
- Liquid collagen
- Probiotics with antibiotics
- Glucosamine
- Vitamin C
- Wellosophy Wellness Pack
- Collagen for men
Questions people ask
What should I know about calcium supplements?
Adults need 700mg of calcium a day, which dairy, fortified alternatives, bread and green vegetables usually cover.
Can I take this with medication?
Ask a pharmacist or GP first; some supplements interact with medicines.
Do supplements replace a balanced diet?
No. They are meant to add to a varied diet, not stand in for one.
Sources
- NHS: Calcium (opens in a new tab)
- Great Britain nutrition and health claims register (opens in a new tab)
Checked 9 October 2026.