Evidence supporting the use of: Bone
For the health condition: Calcium Deficiency
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Bones, particularly in the form of bone meal or powdered bone, have been used as a dietary supplement to support calcium intake. The scientific rationale is that bones are a rich natural source of calcium and phosphorus, key minerals necessary for bone health and metabolic functions in the human body. Bone meal supplements provide these minerals in a form that is bioavailable to humans, although absorption rates can vary based on processing and preparation.
Historically, bone meal was used before the widespread availability of purified calcium supplements. Its use has diminished in many countries due to concerns about contamination (e.g., heavy metals, prions) and variability in mineral content. However, some modern supplements still use bone-derived calcium, especially those marketed as "natural" or "whole food" sources.
Scientific studies confirm that bone meal can increase calcium intake and help prevent or treat calcium deficiency. However, the evidence is moderate (hence a rating of 3) because bone meal is less commonly recommended now compared to purified calcium carbonate or citrate, which have more predictable dosing and safety profiles. The use of bone as a calcium source is scientifically valid in principle, but modern safety guidelines typically favor other sources due to potential risks. Overall, bone and bone meal have a justified, though now less common, role in addressing calcium deficiency based on their mineral content.
Other ingredients used for Calcium Deficiency
anchoviesboron
bovine
calcium
horsetail
magnesium
microcrystalline hydroxyapatite concentrate (MCHC)
milk
strontium
vitamin D
vitamin K
zinc
haliotis
4-Phytase
Alaria
Animal Tissue
Algas calcareas
Abalone
Bone
Bone Protein
Casein
Cuttlefish
Dolomite
Egg
glycerophosphate
Milk Protein
Zucchini