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Homesteading Skills: Make Your Own Calcium Supplement

[FOOD] Turn what most people waste into a highly nutritious asset in your own kitchen! Making your own calcium supplement from eggshells is one of the easiest, most eco-friendly methods to practice self-sufficient and natural living.

Eggshells are made up of mostly calcium carbonate and
 also contain proteins and trace elements such as strontium, fluoride, magnesium, and selenium, which may synergistically support bone health [1,2] and have even been shown to remineralize teeth [3,4]. One study concluded "Using ground eggshell to increase dietary calcium could be a highly equitable nutritional recommendation." A further study found calcium absorption was as much as 64% greater from eggshell powder versus purified calcium carbonate. One reason may be that naturally occurring proteins found in eggshells aid in mineral absorption.

You don’t need any fancy equipment, just a few basic kitchen tools.

Directions: 

  1. Rinse the shells
    After cracking eggs (keep membrane on), give shells a quick rinse.
  2. Boil
    Boil for 10-30 minutes to eliminate bacteria.
  3. Dry thoroughly
    Place in a warm oven (around 200°F) until fully dry.
  4. Grind into powder
    Use a coffee grinder, blender, or mortar and pestle. Aim for a fine, flour-like consistency.
  5. Store 
    Keep in a small jar with a lid, no refrigeration needed.

That’s it. No packaging, no shipping, no expense.

How To Use

A common amount is about ½ teaspoon per day. That gives 400-500 mg of calcium.

  • Stir into oatmeal or porridge
  • Blend into smoothies
  • Mix into baked goods
  • Add to soups or broths

Because it’s nearly tasteless when finely ground, it integrates easily into most anything.