using antacids as calcium supplements...

[Revy]

I'm not sure who to believe on this issue.

GlaxoSmithKline, maker of Tums, insists that antacid calcium tablets work as effective calcium supplements.

However, I've read a lot about how the reduced acidity in the stomach caused by antacids decreases absorption of calcium and other important vitamins and minerals.

:confused:

[FreeFocus]

I think it's a terrible idea to use antacids as calcium supplements. I think you can get enough calcium from the food you eat - nuts, fish, vegetables like broccoli and corn, etc. Reducing stomach acidity below where it should be normally for you (of course, this wouldn't apply to someone who is above what it would be normally, which should be the only case in which you take an antacid) will prevent optimal absorption.