Whenever anyone asks me what's the best way to take mineral supplements, I often give an answer they don't expect, "Orotates!" The blank looks I usually get tell me that further explanation is necessary.
A few years ago, Ed Sharpe wrote a long and thorough report about orotates and their benefits. I want to give credit to Ed for the original work as it was one of the most comprehensive reviews of the research I’ve seen. I suggest checking it out for yourself, but to provide a quick introduction, I've created an abridged version below.
Orotates are the mineral salts of orotic acid, a natural substance found in our bodies, dairy products, and other food. Orotates are part of a system of electrolyte carriers that distribute minerals throughout the body.[1] Some orotate molecules can pass through cell membranes without breaking apart, allowing them to be absorbed very efficiently.[2] Because they’re absorbed so well, they make a fantastic delivery system for minerals.
Of all the minerals, magnesium is one of the most important. It’s helpful for migraines, the upper respiratory system, blood vessel elasticity, and cardiovascular health.[3] Combining magnesium with orotates enhances mineral transport and is superior to other magnesium supplements.[4, 5, 6, 7]
Calcium supplements get credit for supporting skeletal health. Among them, calcium orotate is the most effective. Small servings of calcium orotate can be effective for promoting skin health and supporting normal blood pressure. If you’re looking for a calcium orotate supplement, IntraCal™ contains both calcium and magnesium orotate. Without magnesium, calcium can cause nerves to be over-activated, over-contracted, and tense.
Potassium deficiency is often a secondary consequence of magnesium deficiency.[8] Another cause is the use of potassium-wasting diuretics to control high blood pressure.[9] Potassium orotate supports cardiovascular health when combined with magnesium orotate. Potassium orotate supports wound healing and can speed up recovery following surgery. [10, 11] Potassium orotate also helps the body absorb vitamin C.[12] Studies suggest regular potassium orotate supplementation has a positive effect on mental well-being.[13]
Lithium carbonate, the treatment for manic-depressive disorders, is structurally different from lithium orotate. Lithium orotate offers neuroprotective effects, immune system support, and positive effects on liver, cardiovascular, thyroid, and immune function. If you suffer from an autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, you should speak with your healthcare professional before taking lithium supplements.[14]
Zinc is necessary for bone health and is vital for the immune system.[15, 16] Zinc deficiency causes atrophy of the thymus, reduction in white blood cells, and susceptibility to infection.[17, 18] Males who are zinc deficient can experience hypogonadism and low testosterone levels.[19] Zinc is also important for growth hormone activity.[20] One of the major, nutritional benefits of zinc is its antioxidant activity.[21, 22, 23]
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