Can You Take Calcium and Sodium Bicarbonate Together?

May affect absorption

The short answer

Sodium bicarbonate alkalinizes the GI tract, which can impair calcium absorption. Calcium carbonate in particular requires gastric acid for dissolution, and the elevated pH from sodium bicarbonate may reduce its bioavailability.

How to arrange timing

Take calcium supplements at a different time from sodium bicarbonate, ideally separated by at least 2 hours.

Reference

Reference noted for this combination: Straub DA. Calcium supplementation in clinical practice: a review of forms, doses, and indications. Nutr Clin Pract. 2007;22(3):286-296

Important context

Whether supplements suit you together also depends on dose, product formulation, health conditions, and medication use. Ask a doctor or pharmacist first if you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a chronic condition.