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Intestinal calcium absorption from mineral water
A Wynckel1, C Hanrotel, A Wuillai
1Service de Néphrologie, Centre Hospitalier et Universitaire, Reims, France.
Mineral and Electrolyte Metabolism
|January 1, 1997
Summary
Calcium in mineral water is bioavailable for intestinal absorption. Mineral water is a recommended calcium source, especially for older adults with lactose intolerance.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Gastroenterology
- Public Health
Background:
- Limited data exists on calcium bioavailability from beverages.
- Mineral waters can be a significant calcium source, potentially offsetting low dairy intake.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the fractional intestinal absorption of calcium (FCA) from mineral waters.
- To determine if calcium absorption is affected by mineral water calcium concentration or daily intake.
Main Methods:
- 12 healthy volunteers participated.
- Radiocalcium tracer and calcium carrier (from mineral water) were administered.
- FCA was measured in fasting subjects with a standard breakfast.
Main Results:
- Calcium absorption kinetics were consistent across mineral waters with varying calcium levels (10.4–467 mg/l).
- A constant FCA range of 34.1–37.0% was observed within 2 hours.
- FCA was independent of daily calcium consumption and mineral water composition.
Conclusions:
- Calcium from mineral waters is readily available for intestinal absorption.
- Total calcium intake is the primary determinant of FCA.
- Calcium-rich mineral waters are beneficial for meeting calcium requirements, particularly for the elderly and lactose-intolerant individuals.