Do Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements Cause Constipation

Calcium supplements cause few, if any, side effects. But side effects can sometimes occur, including gas, constipation and bloating. In general, calcium carbonate is the most constipating.

How do you avoid constipation when taking calcium supplements?

Regardless of which calcium supplement the patient is taking, there may still be the possibility of constipation. Patients should be counseled to drink plenty of water, increase their dietary fiber intake, and be physically active to minimize this possibility.

Is there a calcium supplement that doesn't cause constipation?

Calcium citrate is the most easily absorbed form of calcium. It can be taken with or without food and usually doesn’t cause stomach upset or gas, a common problem with other types of calcium supplements. It’s also less likely to cause constipation, unlike calcium carbonate.