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Lithothamnium calcareum – Marine Calcium from Red Algae
Lithothamnium calcareum is a calcium-rich marine red algae used as a natural calcium source in dietary supplements to support bone and dental health.
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Lithothamnium calcareum is a calcium-rich marine red algae used as a natural calcium source in dietary supplements to support bone and dental health.
What is Lithothamnium calcareum?
Lithothamnium calcareum is a marine red algae belonging to the family Corallinaceae. It thrives in cold, nutrient-rich ocean waters, primarily off the coasts of Ireland, Iceland, and Brittany in France. What makes this algae remarkable is that it mineralises its cell walls with calcium carbonate and magnesium carbonate, making it one of the most mineral-dense plant-based raw materials available. It is commonly marketed under the name Maerl or as "marine calcium."
Bioactive Compounds
The defining characteristic of Lithothamnium calcareum is its exceptional mineral composition:
- Calcium carbonate: The algae contains up to 34% elemental calcium, placing it among the richest plant-based calcium sources.
- Magnesium: Typically 2–4% magnesium is naturally present, supporting calcium absorption as well as muscle and nerve function.
- Trace elements: In addition to calcium and magnesium, the algae contains over 70 trace elements and micronutrients, including zinc, manganese, boron, silicon, and strontium.
- Porous microstructure: Unlike synthetic calcium carbonate, algae-derived calcium features a highly porous, bioavailable microstructure that may enhance absorption.
Biological Functions and Health Benefits
Bone and Dental Health
Calcium is the fundamental building block of bones and teeth. Adequate calcium intake contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and teeth – a health claim recognised by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The porous structure of calcium from Lithothamnium calcareum is believed to offer good bioavailability, although direct comparative studies with other calcium sources remain limited.
Support for Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition characterised by reduced bone density and increased fracture risk. Several smaller clinical studies suggest that algae-derived calcium from Lithothamnium calcareum may positively influence bone mineral density, particularly when combined with vitamin D. However, larger randomised controlled trials are still needed to confirm these findings.
Acid-Base Balance
Due to its alkaline nature, Lithothamnium calcareum has traditionally been used to support a healthy acid-base balance. Calcium carbonate acts as a natural buffer and can neutralise excess stomach acid.
Magnesium and Additional Minerals
The naturally occurring magnesium content contributes to a synergistic effect: magnesium supports the conversion of vitamin D into its active form, thereby facilitating calcium utilisation throughout the body.
Traditional Use
Seaweeds of the Lithothamnium genus have been used for centuries in agriculture as a natural lime fertiliser to neutralise acidic soils. In traditional folk medicine, particularly in coastal regions of Western Europe, the algae was also used to ease digestive complaints and strengthen bones.
Recommended Dosage
There is no universally standardised daily dose for Lithothamnium calcareum as a dietary supplement. In practice, manufacturers align their dosage recommendations with the elemental calcium content:
- EFSA and similar health authorities recommend a daily calcium intake of 1,000 mg for adults, and up to 1,200 mg for older individuals and pregnant women.
- Typical Lithothamnium calcareum supplements provide 500–1,000 mg of elemental calcium per daily serving.
- It is advisable to spread calcium intake across several smaller doses throughout the day, as intestinal calcium absorption is more efficient at lower amounts.
Safety and Interactions
Lithothamnium calcareum is considered safe when used as directed. However, the following points should be noted:
- Kidney disease: Individuals with impaired kidney function should consult a healthcare professional before increasing calcium intake.
- Hypercalcaemia: Excessive calcium intake may lead to elevated blood calcium levels (hypercalcaemia), with symptoms such as nausea, weakness, and kidney stones.
- Drug interactions: Calcium can impair the absorption of certain medications, including tetracyclines, bisphosphonates, and thyroid hormones. A gap of at least 2 hours between taking supplements and medications is recommended.
- Iodine content: As a marine product, the algae may contain iodine. Individuals with thyroid conditions should seek medical advice before use.
Scientific Evidence
The scientific evidence surrounding Lithothamnium calcareum is promising but not yet comprehensive. Several clinical studies have demonstrated positive effects on bone density and calcium bioavailability. Some research suggests that algae-derived calcium may offer comparable or slightly superior bioavailability compared to conventional calcium carbonate. Nevertheless, larger, independent long-term studies are still needed to draw definitive conclusions.
References
- EFSA Panel on Dietetic Products, Nutrition and Allergies (NDA): Scientific Opinion on Dietary Reference Values for Calcium. EFSA Journal 2015;13(5):4101.
- Brennan, O. et al.: Temporal changes in the redistribution of mineral and organic constituents in Lithothamnion sp. (coralline algae) following hydrothermal treatment. Journal of Structural Biology, 2015.
- Aslam, M.N. et al.: A mineral-rich extract from the red marine algae Lithothamnion calcareum preserves bone structure and function in female mice on a Western-style diet. Calcified Tissue International, 2010;86(4):313–324.
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