Dolomite

MineralBest with a meal

What is it

Dolomite is a calcium-magnesium carbonate mineral mined and ground for use as a calcium and magnesium supplement. It provides both minerals in a roughly 2:1 calcium-to-magnesium ratio similar to typical recommendations.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Calcium and magnesium intake

Good Evidence

Dolomite delivers both minerals effectively. Specific evidence for unique health benefits beyond its calcium and magnesium content is limited.

How it works

Dolomite is dissolved by gastric acid to liberate calcium and magnesium ions, which are absorbed via standard pathways in the small intestine. Bioavailability of both minerals from dolomite is comparable to other carbonate sources when taken with food. Historically, dolomite supplements have raised concerns about heavy metal contamination (lead, arsenic, mercury) because they are direct mineral preparations. Modern reputable products are tested to meet contaminant limits.

Dosage

Calcium and magnesium needs follow standard guidelines (calcium 1,000 to 1,200 mg/day; magnesium 310 to 420 mg/day for adults). Dolomite servings typically deliver 200 to 500 mg calcium with proportional magnesium.

When and how to take it

Take with food for best absorption. Split calcium doses above 500 mg.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Ground dolomite mineral

Tableted or powdered. Third-party heavy metal testing is recommended.

Carbonate kinetics; needs gastric acid for solubility.

Safety

Calcium and magnesium themselves are well tolerated. Heavy metal contamination is the historical concern; choose products with third-party testing. Excess intake can cause hypercalcemia or magnesium-related diarrhea.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in advanced kidney disease without medical guidance. Pregnancy: standard calcium and magnesium guidelines apply.

Interactions

Calcium and magnesium can reduce absorption of tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, levothyroxine, bisphosphonates, and iron. Separate by at least 2 hours.

Frequently asked questions

Is dolomite safe?⌄

Modern tested products from reputable brands are safe. Historical contamination concerns make third-party testing important.

Is dolomite better than separate calcium and magnesium?⌄

It is convenient but does not offer a clear advantage over standalone supplements at comparable doses.

References

Dolomite on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Dolomite on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Dolomite (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Dolomite with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.