Organic Eggshell Powder
Also known as: Eggshell powder (ESP), Chicken eggshell powder, Calcium carbonate from eggshell, Organic Eggshell Powder, Calcium Carbonate (from Eggshell)
Overview
Organic eggshell powder is a natural, bio-based source of calcium derived from finely ground chicken eggshells. Predominantly composed of calcium carbonate (approximately 39-40% elemental calcium), it also contains beneficial trace elements like strontium and small amounts of biologically active proteins and hormones, such as transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-β1) and calcitonin. It is primarily used as a dietary calcium supplement to address calcium deficiency and support bone health. Research suggests that eggshell powder is a safe and effective calcium source, comparable to other calcium carbonate supplements. It is sometimes combined with vitamin D3 to enhance calcium absorption. The powder form can be easily incorporated into food, capsules, or pharmaceutical tablet formulations.
Benefits
Eggshell powder provides a bioavailable source of calcium, essential for bone mineralization and maintenance. Studies report a calcium content of approximately 401 mg/g, comparable to other calcium supplements. It may improve calcium intake in populations with low dairy consumption, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. The presence of strontium may synergistically support bone health. While small amounts of growth factors and hormones (e.g., TGF-β1, calcitonin) could theoretically influence bone metabolism, their clinical relevance requires further investigation. Overall, eggshell powder is beneficial for individuals with calcium deficiency or those avoiding dairy, and potentially useful for elderly populations at risk of osteoporosis. Direct clinical effect sizes on bone density or fracture risk from eggshell powder alone are not well established; however, calcium supplementation in general shows modest but significant benefits in bone health.
How it works
Eggshell powder provides elemental calcium for absorption in the gut, increasing serum calcium levels and supporting bone mineralization. Calcium homeostasis is regulated via vitamin D3 and parathyroid hormone pathways. The calcium ions interact with osteoblasts and osteoclasts to regulate bone formation and resorption. Trace elements like strontium may also modulate bone remodeling. Eggshell calcium is bioavailable and comparable to other calcium carbonate sources. Combining eggshell powder with vitamin D3 enhances calcium absorption and utilization, optimizing its effectiveness in supporting bone health.
Side effects
Eggshell powder is generally safe when used as a calcium supplement. Common side effects, similar to other calcium carbonate supplements, may include gastrointestinal discomfort such as constipation and bloating. Rare allergic reactions are possible but not commonly reported. No significant rare adverse effects have been documented. Eggshell powder may interfere with the absorption of certain medications, such as bisphosphonates and tetracyclines. It is contraindicated in individuals with hypercalcemia or conditions with calcium metabolism disorders. Caution is advised for patients with kidney stones or renal impairment. Properly sourced eggshell powder contains low levels of toxic heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Al, Hg), below harmful thresholds.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of eggshell powder varies depending on individual calcium needs and dietary intake. A daily intake of 500-1200 mg of elemental calcium from eggshell powder is generally considered reasonable. The calcium RDA varies by age; eggshell powder providing 500-1000 mg elemental calcium daily aligns with typical supplementation guidelines. The upper intake level for calcium is about 2500 mg/day for adults; exceeding this may increase the risk of hypercalcemia. It is best taken with meals to enhance absorption. Vitamin D3 co-supplementation improves calcium absorption and utilization. The powder form can be incorporated into food or capsules.
FAQs
Is organic eggshell powder safe?
Yes, when properly processed and free from contaminants, it is safe and effective as a calcium source. Properly sourced eggshell powder contains low levels of heavy metals, below toxic thresholds.
How quickly does it work?
Calcium supplementation benefits bone health over months to years; immediate effects on serum calcium may occur within hours. Vitamin D3 co-supplementation improves calcium absorption.
Can it replace other calcium supplements?
It can be an alternative source of calcium, especially for those seeking natural or food-based supplements. It is a cost-effective alternative to traditional calcium supplements.
Are there risks of heavy metals?
Properly sourced eggshell powder contains low levels of heavy metals, below toxic thresholds. Ensure the product is tested for heavy metal contamination by a third party.
Does it contain hormones?
Trace amounts of hormones like calcitonin are present but unlikely to have systemic effects. The amounts are minimal and not expected to impact hormone levels.
Research Sources
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/8/1152 – This clinical trial found that eggshell powder is an inexpensive and effective calcium source for dietary supplementation, particularly for populations with low milk consumption. The study highlights its potential to improve calcium intake, although it primarily focused on nutritional adequacy rather than specific clinical outcomes.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/16/16/2640 – This study investigated the use of eggshell powder as a calcium supplement in populations with low dairy intake. The findings suggest that eggshell powder can effectively improve calcium intake, offering a cost-effective alternative to traditional calcium supplements.
- https://pubs.acs.org/doi/10.1021/acsomega.3c08416 – This pharmaceutical formulation study demonstrated that eggshell powder can be effectively used as a filler in vitamin D3 tablets, maintaining tablet quality and ensuring vitamin D3 release. The research suggests the potential for combined supplementation using eggshell powder and vitamin D3.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12064336/ – A compositional analysis of commercial eggshell powders from multiple countries revealed that eggshell powder contains approximately 40% elemental calcium, beneficial trace minerals, and low levels of toxic metals. The study also noted the presence of small amounts of growth factors and hormones potentially beneficial for bone health.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11194049/ – This study analyzed the composition of eggshell powder, confirming its high calcium content and the presence of trace minerals. The research supports the use of eggshell powder as a natural source of calcium with potential benefits for bone health due to its mineral composition.
