Eggshell

MineralCalcium

What is it

Eggshell, particularly the inner eggshell membrane, is used in joint-support supplements. Eggshell calcium itself is used in some calcium products. Natural Eggshell Membrane (NEM) is the most studied form.

Evidence for 2 uses

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

Joint pain and stiffness (NEM)

Good Evidence

Several small randomized trials of NEM 500 mg/day show modest reductions in joint pain and stiffness in mild-to-moderate osteoarthritis within 1-4 weeks. Effect size is moderate.

Calcium intake / bone health

Good Evidence

Eggshell calcium is absorbed comparably to calcium carbonate and can help meet dietary calcium needs.

How it works

Eggshell membrane is a thin protein matrix containing collagen (types I, V, X), elastin, glycosaminoglycans (including hyaluronic acid and chondroitin sulfate), and small amounts of glucosamine. These connective-tissue building blocks may support cartilage and reduce joint inflammation when supplied orally. Clinical studies of NEM (typically 500 mg/day) report improvements in joint pain and stiffness within 7-30 days. The mechanism is thought to combine providing matrix nutrients and modulating inflammation, though the relative contribution of each is unclear. Eggshell calcium provides highly bioavailable calcium carbonate and small amounts of other minerals.

Dosage

NEM for joint support: 500 mg once daily is the dose used in clinical studies. Eggshell calcium for bone support: 500-1200 mg elemental calcium daily, depending on dietary intake.

When and how to take it

NEM can be taken with or without food, once daily. Eggshell calcium is best taken in divided doses with meals for best absorption. Don't take calcium with iron or thyroid medications.

2 commercial forms

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

Natural Eggshell Membrane (NEM)

Brand-name form most often used in joint studies.

Protein matrix; partially digested into amino acids and glycosaminoglycan fragments.

Eggshell calcium powder

Used in some calcium supplements and fortification.

Calcium carbonate-based; absorption similar to standard calcium carbonate.

Safety

Generally well tolerated. The main concern is allergy: people with egg allergy should avoid all eggshell-derived products, since residual egg proteins may be present.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in egg allergy. People with kidney stones or hypercalcemia should be cautious with eggshell calcium. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use products labeled for that use.

Interactions

Calcium from eggshell can reduce absorption of thyroid hormones, tetracyclines, fluoroquinolones, bisphosphonates, and iron. Separate doses by at least 2-4 hours.

Frequently asked questions

Is NEM the same as glucosamine and chondroitin?⌄

Not exactly. NEM contains small amounts of glucosamine, chondroitin, and hyaluronic acid plus collagen-related proteins, but at lower doses than standalone glucosamine or chondroitin products. Studies suggest NEM works at much smaller daily doses (500 mg vs. 1500 mg).

Can I make eggshell calcium at home?⌄

Yes, by washing, baking, and grinding eggshells, but the resulting calcium content per serving is hard to standardize. Commercial products are easier to dose accurately, and any product from eggs should be avoided by people with egg allergies.

References

Eggshell on Wikidata — Wikidata link

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

Research on Eggshell (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Eggshell with Pilora

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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.