Coral calcium, a dietary supplement made of calcium carbonate and a wealth of trace minerals, is harvested off the shores of Okinawa, Japan. This much acclaimed mineral is best known for its proclaimed ability to change the alkalinity of water-based solutions. Many individuals, inspired by the teachings of Robert Barefoot, hold to the belief that coral calcium is a cure-all for a number of diseases.
The Robert Barefoot Theory Concerning Coral Calcium
Robert Barefoot is a bio-chemist and promoter of coral calcium. His theory advocates that while a healthy person has a high pH or alkaline reading and high oxygen levels, a person that is ill has a low pH reading and low oxygen levels. If the the pH levels of the sick can be raised or changed to alkaline, that person can overthrow any illness in question. Barefoot believes that the alkalinity of coral calcium can cure some 200 degenerative diseases caused by calcium deficiency.
Controversial Issues Concerning Coral Calcium
Laboratory analyses performed on coral calcium reveal that this supplement contains significant amounts of heavy metals, including lead. These findings pose a direct confrontation with Robert Barefoot's coral calcium theory for ultimate health. In fact, according to Andrew Weil, founder and director of the Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine, the claim that better health can be achieved by creating a more alkaline body has no basis in science. Weil advocates that good health is based on a proper diet, a physically active lifestyle and community support.
Coral calcium supplements, although more expensive than regular calcium supplements have not been proven any more effective. It is recommended that individuals needing extra calcium should take calcium carbonate products which are 30-35% absorbable in the body. Coral calcium is not 100% absorbable as claimed. In fact, too much calcium can be harmful to the body; it can hinder the absorption of iron and other nutrients. Calcium taken solo can also be ineffective. It must be balanced with magnesium to be perform at its best.
Another concern of coral calcium is that it causes severe allergic reactions. Shortness of breath, swelling and hives are characteristic of individuals who are allergic to shellfish. Shellfish living amongst the coral reefs contaminate the limestone deposits which can negatively affect individuals with allergies.
Coral Calcium Manufacturing Destroys the Environment
The widespread health claims concerning coral calcium has led to mass production of the supplement. This raises environmental issues because of the destruction of the beautiful ocean reefs that have taken thousands of years to grow. The reefs are also home to many ocean creatures, including fish and lobster. Because living coal reefs are now endangered, it is forbidden by law to harvest them. As an alternative, harvesters are using loose limestone deposits to make the coral supplements. Calcium from limestone deposits contain pollutants and heavy metals.
Solution to the Coral Calcium Controversy
Although it is a well known fact that the body needs adequate supplies of calcium, as well as other vitamins and minerals in order to function optimally, there is no clear evidence that coral calcium is the ultimate solution. On the contrary, taking coral calcium as the sole remedy for a dangerous health ailment could prove detrimental. Consumers should continue to stay abreast of current trends and styles concerning health issues and seek professional help to make an educated decision concerning individual products.
References:
Robert Barefoot on Coral Calcium
Andrew Weil on Coral Calcium
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