General Contents of TUMS_® Tablets TUMS_® Packaging Heartburn Calcium Should You Be Taking TUMS_®? Miscellaneous

Calcium

How much calcium am I getting with each TUMS_® tablet?
Each:

Regular Strength TUMS_® contain 200 mg of elemental calcium.
Extra Strength TUMS_® contain 300 mg of elemental calcium. Extra Strength includes TUMS Smoothies^®
Ultra Strength TUMS_® contain 400 mg of elemental calcium.

Why are there two different amounts of calcium on the TUMS_® labels?
Because TUMS_® has a dual usage - as both an antacid and as a calcium supplement - the label includes the amount of calcium carbonate (for those who use the product as an antacid) and the elemental calcium - the amount of calcium that your body is actually able to use for calcium supplementation.

When is the best time of day to take TUMS_® as a calcium supplement?
The body is only able to absorb about 500 to 600 mg of elemental calcium at a time, so it is best to space out your calcium tablets throughout the day. Studies have shown that calcium absorption from calcium carbonate, the calcium in TUMS_®, is best when taken with meals. Also as a matter of convenience and to establish a regular usage routine, it is advised that TUMS_® be taken with meals, unless directed otherwise by your own doctor.

Am I not getting enough calcium from my multi-vitamin?
Multi-vitamins typically do not contain more than 200 to 300 mg of calcium. Even in the case of prenatal vitamins for pregnant women, the calcium content will likely not be enough to meet the daily demands of the mother and growing baby. A multi-vitamin may provide additional nutrients and vitamins that your body needs, but if your diet is low in calcium, you should consider taking a calcium supplement.

How do I choose a calcium supplement?
The key is to choose a supplement that you will actually take every day. The most common supplements contain calcium carbonate. TUMS_® is inexpensive and contains more elemental calcium by weight than other calcium supplements that contain either calcium citrate or calcium lactate. Check the label of your supplement for the amount of elemental calcium per tablet. TUMS_® is a great tasting, cost effective and highly efficient source of calcium.

Is it possible to take too much calcium?
It is unlikely that you will get too much calcium. Typically, the excess which the body cannot use is excreted in the urine and stool. If you have concerns about how much calcium you should be getting, please discuss this with your doctor.