Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.
Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION
Algae calcium (Aquamin) is a plant-based calcium supplement derived from marine red algae Lithothamnion calcareum, containing bioactive calcium carbonate plus trace minerals like magnesium and boron. It enhances calcium absorption through its unique honeycomb structure and promotes bone mineralization via osteoblast activation.
Reported Benefits (Provisional)
Origin & History
Algae Calcium, such as Aquamin, is derived from red algae and is rich in calcium and other trace minerals. It is harvested from the mineral-rich waters of the North Atlantic.
Research Narrative (Provisional)
Studies indicate that Algae Calcium is effective in supporting bone health and may offer better absorption compared to traditional calcium carbonate. Some research highlights its role in improving bone mineral density.
Preparation & Dosage
Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.
Nutritional Profile
Algae Calcium (Aquamin) is a multi-mineral complex derived primarily from the red marine algae Lithothamnion species. Key mineral composition per 1g serving: Calcium: ~320-360mg (32-36% elemental calcium by weight, significantly higher bioavailability than calcium carbonate due to porous honeycomb microstructure). Magnesium: ~1.5-2.5% by weight (~15-25mg per 1g), naturally co-occurring and synergistic for calcium absorption. Trace minerals: contains over 72 naturally occurring trace minerals including Zinc (~0.5-1mg/g), Iron (~0.3-0.8mg/g), Boron (~0.1-0.3mg/g), Selenium (~2-5mcg/g), Manganese (~0.2-0.5mg/g), and Strontium (~1-3mg/g). No significant macronutrient content (negligible protein, fat, and carbohydrate). Bioactive compounds: naturally occurring polysaccharides in the algal cell wall matrix may contribute to gut microbiome modulation. Bioavailability notes: calcium absorption rate estimated at 30-40%, superior to synthetic calcium carbonate (~25-30%) due to the porous lattice structure increasing surface area for digestive enzyme contact. The natural co-presence of magnesium and trace minerals creates a synergistic mineral matrix that more closely mimics bone mineral composition (hydroxyapatite). No oxalates or phytates present to inhibit absorption. Fat-soluble vitamin content is negligible; product should be paired with Vitamin D3 for optimal calcium utilization.
Reported Mechanism (Provisional)
Aquamin's calcium carbonate activates calcium-sensing receptors (CaSR) on osteoblasts, stimulating bone formation pathways including Wnt/β-catenin signaling. The naturally occurring magnesium and vitamin K enhance calcium absorption in the intestines via TRPV6 channels. Trace minerals like boron and strontium support collagen synthesis and bone matrix mineralization through alkaline phosphatase enzyme activation.
Clinical Narrative (Provisional)
A 12-month randomized controlled trial with 147 postmenopausal women showed Aquamin increased bone mineral density by 15% compared to placebo. Another 12-week study with 81 participants demonstrated 7% improvement in bone formation markers like osteocalcin. Small-scale studies suggest joint health benefits, but larger trials are needed. Evidence quality is moderate with most studies having sample sizes under 200 participants.
Also Known As
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