In the region called Okinawa, most people live a relatively longer life, compared to Americans. To explain this, claims have been made stating that the drinking water in the region containing a high percentage of coral calcium is the primary reason. It is true that drinking high mineral content water does benefit health but is not conclusive to claims by marketers that this is the primary reason. Other research studies conducted in the region and its people suggest that Okinawans live long due to factors like rich vegetable diets, grains, fish and strong social networks for the aged.

Research in this field has prompted skeptics to voice their concern that coral calcium may have adverse effects like hives and breathing difficulties in people with allergies to shellfish, as coral reefs often serve as the breeding ground for the shellfish. Continuous research has also prompted theories that coral calcium supplements may also contain harmful heavy metals like lead, mercury and cadmium that negate any supposed benefits of the coral calcium.

SPINS, a San Francisco-based market research firm, has reported that the coral calcium market has grown into a $6.5 million business over the past year. Many researchers, academic experts, mainstream and alternative medical practitioners and dietary supplement industry representatives also state most claims in the market have no supportive evidence or proven validity.

Whatever the claims may be, critics and marketers agree on a few basic theories, the first being that Calcium Coral can supply calcium needed by the body. The other theory is that calcium in appropriate dosages may be good for the heart and helps lower blood pressure. An American Cancer Society study has found evidence that calcium consumption may reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. In recent times, federal- funded researchers have recruited volunteer patients to study if high-dose calcium supplementation helps improve health of overweight adults. Most theories have pros and cons and so is the case with coral calcium. Private as well as federal institutions are researching on this subject. Whatever the claims are, if one is desirous of taking these supplements, it is certainly advisable to consult a physician. One must also consider other options of health benefits, which have been clinically tried and proven.