The sulkowitch calcium test is a tool that helps indirectly measure calcium stores in the body by examining the excreted amount found in the urine. I use this test as a marker for adequate digestion and absorption of calcium, excessive urinary excretion of calcium, and to monitor if calcium intake through foods or supplementation is adequate. Calcium absorption depends on the acidity of the stomach, the presence of many different vitamin and mineral co-factors, including the amount of phosphate present, and the integrity of the lining of the small intestine. Calcium intake depends upon the amount and bioavailability of the calcium found in foods and supplements that are ingested.
This urine test is an on-site test done at the clinic. The results will fall into one of 3 categories: low, normal or high.
Clinical implications of a result that is determined to be high, could be the result of one of many possibilities. These possibilities include: excessive dietary calcium consumption, excessive supplementation, consumption of a diet high in refined sugars, thyroid hypo-function, hyperparathyroidism, and many other types of diseases. The result might be falsely elevated from various drugs like corticosteroids.
Clinical implications of a result that is determined to be low, could be the result of one of many possibilities. These possibilities include: low dietary calcium intake, decreased stomach acid, poor intestinal calcium absorption, excessive protein intake, hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D insufficiency, and the ingestion of antacids. The result might be falsely decreased from thiazide diuretics and alkalinizing substances.
Too much or too little calcium can be problematic. Calcium requirements are unique for each person, depending upon age, gender, unique requirements (as in childhood growth spurts, pregnancy and lactation), and with various disease conditions.