Calcium glycerophosphate is a mineral made up of equal amounts of calcium and phosphorous. Its precursor, calcium phosphate, represents a group of calcium salts and minerals that are important for healthy bones and teeth. In fact, the bones and teeth are mainly composed of calcium phosphate and its derivatives. However, the bioavailability of calcium salts and other calcium-based compounds has presented a challenge in the past. Calcium glycerophosphate is a relatively new dietary supplement that appears to offer the same health benefits, but is more easily absorbed.
One of the best-known and best-documented health benefits associated with calcium glycerophosphate is the control of interstitial cystitis, a condition that causes frequent urination and poor bladder control due to chronic inflammation of the bladder. While the specific cause of this condition is unknown, it is suspected that a diet rich in acidic foods, such as tomatoes, fruit juices, coffee, tea, etc., may be a contributing factor. Since complete elimination of these foods is difficult for many people, the researchers turned to calcium glycerophosphate to see if it could relieve symptoms.
As a supplement, calcium glycerophosphate is available as Prelief®, in which the mineral is the primary active ingredient. Studies have found that Calcium Glycerophosphate can significantly reduce the urge to urinate, as well as minimize discomfort experienced after consuming highly acidic foods and beverages. However, studies also found that calcium glycerophosphate appears to alter ingested food and does not trigger a biochemical process in the body itself. Otherwise, the latter scenario could lead to decreased levels of hydrochloric acid in the stomach necessary for proper digestion. In terms of direct action on food, calcium glycerophosphate demonstrated an ability to reduce the acid content of jarred tomato sauce by 60 percent and coffee by 95 percent.
However, while these results look promising, it is important to note that most of the studies on calcium glycerophosphate done so far have been done by the manufacturer and not by an independent third party. It should also be noted that long-term calcium glycerophosphate supplementation may still have the potential to lower normal stomach hydrochloric acid levels. Therefore, the manufacturer of Prelief® recommends limiting supplementation to only those times when eating acidic foods is expected.
Since calcium is critical for healthy teeth, calcium glycerophosphate has also been tested to see if it can help prevent tooth enamel loss. A recent Brazilian study found that supplementation with this mineral significantly increased the phosphorus content of dental biofilm, which in turn improved its pH. The final results showed reduced demineralization as well as a reduction in caries among the study subjects.