Re: Calcium supplementation

Silica is actually more important than calcium. Silica is needed to form the collagen matrix that gives tissues their strength and a base for mineralization in some tissues such as bone. Silica also aids in calcium absorption. In short without sufficient silica all the calcium in the world is not going to do you any good.

IBS can interfere with the absorption of minerals like calcium. IBS actually results from abnormally low levels of intestinal flora. The flora generate acids that help convert poorly absorbed mineral compounds such as oxides and carbonates in to more efficiently absorbed mineral salts. Building up your flora with kefir and other cultured foods and with fibers, especially high silica rice bran or oat bran would be a good start.

You can also add diatomaceous earth to your water to increase your silica absorption.

Green leafy vegetables and seaweeds are a great source of calcium and other nutrients that work with the calcium.

If you are going to use calcium supplements make sure to use pre-acidified forms of calcium with magnesium.  Pre-acidified examples are the citrates and malates. Again avoid the oxides (magnesium oxide) and carbonates (calcium carbonate, oyster shell, dolomite, coral). Also look for a 1:1 ratio of calcium to magnesium.

Alfalfa herb (not sprouts) is also good for strengthening the teeth.