Calcium glycinate
[CAS# 35947-07-0]

Identification

• Classification: Biochemical >> Common amino acids and protein drugs
• Name: Calcium glycinate
• Molecular Formula: C₄H₈CaN₂O₄
• Molecular Weight: 188.20
• CAS Registry Number: 35947-07-0
• EC Number: 252-809-5
• SMILES: C(C(=O)[O-])N.C(C(=O)[O-])N.[Ca+2]

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07;GHS08 Warning
• Risk Statements: H302-H373
• Safety Statements: P260-P264-P270-P301+P317-P319-P330-P501

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Specific target organ toxicity - repeated exposure	STOT RE	2	H373
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302

Discovery and Applications

Calcium glycinate is the calcium salt of the amino acid glycine. This compound has received a lot of attention for its high bioavailability and versatility in a variety of applications, especially in nutritional supplements and pharmaceuticals. The discovery of calcium glycinate stems from the quest to improve the efficiency and absorption rate of calcium supplements. Traditional calcium supplements, such as calcium carbonate and calcium citrate, often have poor absorption rates and gastrointestinal side effects. Researchers found that chelating calcium with glycine increased its bioavailability, leading to the development of calcium glycinate. The synthesis involves the reaction of a calcium salt, such as calcium chloride, with glycine to produce a chelated compound in which the calcium is bound to the amino acid glycine. This chelation process increases the stability and absorption rate of calcium by the body.

Calcium glycinate is widely used in dietary supplements due to its higher bioavailability compared to other calcium salts. It is easily absorbed in the intestine, making it an effective means of preventing and treating calcium deficiency. This form of calcium is particularly beneficial for people who have poor digestion or experience gastrointestinal discomfort from other calcium supplements.

In the pharmaceutical industry, calcium glycinate is incorporated into various formulations to ensure optimal calcium intake. It is used to treat conditions such as osteoporosis, where maintaining adequate calcium levels is essential for bone health. Its high bioavailability means that smaller doses are needed to achieve the desired calcium levels, reducing the risk of side effects.

Calcium glycinate is also used to fortify foods, improving their nutritional value. It is added to products such as dairy alternatives, cereals, and beverages to increase their calcium content. This application is particularly important in areas where dietary calcium intake is inadequate, helping to address public health issues related to calcium deficiency.

In animal husbandry, calcium glycinate is used as a feed additive to increase the calcium intake of livestock. It aids in the growth and development of animals, ensuring strong bones and overall health. The use of calcium glycinate in animal feed has demonstrated its effectiveness and safety as a calcium source.

Calcium glycinate is found in some personal care products, such as skin care formulations. It is included because of its potential benefits for skin health, as calcium plays a role in maintaining the skin barrier and overall skin function.

The main benefit of calcium glycinate is its high bioavailability. Chelation with glycine ensures that calcium is easily absorbed in the digestive tract, thereby more effectively raising blood calcium levels.

Unlike other calcium supplements that may cause gastrointestinal issues such as bloating and constipation, calcium glycinate is less irritating to the stomach. This makes it suitable for people with sensitive digestive systems.

The versatility of calcium glycinate in applications ranging from dietary supplements to animal nutrition and food fortification highlights its wide range of uses. Its effectiveness in different areas highlights its importance as a calcium source.

References

2021. Amino Acid Chelates in Nutrition. Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, 69(35).
DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.1c03456