Calcium -glucarate (or calcium saccharate) is the calcium salt of -glucaric acid (saccharic acid), a substance naturally found in small amounts in fruits and vegetables such as oranges, apples, grapefruits, and cruciferous vegetables. It is commonly used as a dietary supplement, primarily marketed for its potential role in supporting detoxification processes and hormone regulation.
Structure and chemistry.
Calcium -glucarate is composed of calcium bound to -glucaric acid, a derivative of glucose metabolism. -Glucaric acid itself is classified as a sugar acid, and when bonded with calcium, it forms a more stable compound suitable for supplementation.
Biological activity.
In the body, calcium -glucarate is hydrolyzed to release -glucaric acid, which can be further metabolized into compounds such as D-glucaro-1,4-lactone. These metabolites are known to inhibit the enzyme beta-glucuronidase. Beta-glucuronidase is involved in the breakdown of glucuronides in the liver and intestines, a process that can release potentially harmful compounds back into circulation.
By inhibiting beta-glucuronidase, calcium -glucarate is thought to promote the excretion of carcinogens, steroid hormones (such as estrogen), and other potentially toxic substances bound for elimination through the bile and urine.
Dietary sources.
Although calcium -glucarate itself is not abundant in foods, -glucaric acid is naturally present in fruits and vegetables. Foods with notable amounts include:
Supplement use.
Calcium -glucarate is available as an over-the-counter dietary supplement, typically in capsule or tablet form. Dosages used in supplements generally range from 200 mg to 1000 mg per serving.
Safety and side effects.
Calcium -glucarate appears to be well tolerated in humans when used at typical supplemental doses. Reported side effects are rare but may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort. No major toxicity concerns have been identified in available studies, although long-term human research is limited