Gymnema Sylvestre 550 mg By Source Naturals Overview & Drug Interactions

Calcium is a vital nutrient found in various foods such as dairy products, certain vegetables, and many fortified items. Over 99% of the body's calcium is stored in the bones and teeth, predominantly as hydroxyapatite. The remaining calcium circulates in the blood, extracellular fluid, muscles, and other tissues, where it is essential for processes like nerve signaling, muscle contraction, vascular activities, glandular secretion, and maintaining cell membrane and capillary permeability. It also plays critical roles in enzyme reactions, respiration, kidney function, and blood clotting, and is involved in neurotransmitter and hormone release, amino acid uptake, vitamin B12 absorption, and gastrin secretion. Calcium balance changes with age: it is positive during periods of growth, stable in adulthood, and tends to become negative in older age. Calcium loss occurs through feces, urine, sweat, and shedding skin cells. In women, reduced estrogen levels decrease calcium absorption and retention, increase bone turnover, and lead to lower bone mass. Calcium supplements come in various forms, including citrate and carbonate, which differ mainly in their calcium content and absorption rates. Calcium citrate is easily absorbed and can be taken without food, making it suitable for older adults or those with low stomach acid. In contrast, calcium carbonate, which contains a higher percentage of calcium, is best absorbed when taken with meals.

Gymnema (Gymnema sylvestre) is a plant species native to India and Africa that has been used traditionally in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to treat a range of conditions, including diabetes, obesity, and digestive problems. Gymnema is thought to work by inhibiting the absorption of sugar in the intestines and by increasing the production of insulin in the pancreas. If applied topically to the tongue, it reduces the sweetness and bitter sensation of foods, which may deter excess sugar intake (the plant is sometimes referred to informally as 'the sugar destroyer'). One of the most popular natural medicines utilized for dietary supplements, an extract of the leaf (Gymnema leaf extract) is the most often standardized for use, although the root can be used as well.