Are liquid calcium supplements absorbed better than calcium pills? —H.C., Ferndale, Wash.

Possibly. Liquid or chewable supplements give the body a head start on absorption because they’re already broken down when they reach the stomach. If you prefer pills, calcium carbonate has the highest percentage of calcium and usually costs less.

Pick products that bear the seal of the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP), which ensures they’ve been tested for purity and potency. You can also check your supplement’s solubility by putting it in a glass of vinegar for 30 minutes and stirring periodically. If it doesn’t dissolve, it probably won’t be absorbed well in your stomach.