Download FREE Practo app
Get ₹200 HealthCash
Can I eat Edible Limestone (Chuna)
Eating edible limestone is good or bad. Is it good source of calcium. Please suggest pros and cons and how to consume.
Answers (9)
Get your queries answered instantly with Care AI FREE
20000+ health queries resolved in last month
Edible limestone (chuna) is sometimes used as a calcium supplement, but it is not recommended for regular dietary use. Although it contains calcium, the body cannot absorb it effectively, and frequent use may lead to side effects such as kidney stones, stomach irritation, or mineral imbalance.
Instead you can try safer and effective calcium sources:
- Dairy products: Milk, curd, paneer, buttermilk.
- Plant-based options: Ragi, sesame seeds, tofu, leafy greens (like spinach)
- Seafood: Sardines or salmon with bones
These provide calcium that’s more bioavailable and safer for long-term health.
Importance of Vitamin D:
- Vitamin D is essential for calcium absorption.
- Without adequate Vitamin D, even calcium-rich foods won’t benefit the body. Sources include daily sun exposure, fortified foods, eggs, and fatty fish.
Next Steps
If you require a personalized diet plan to improve your calcium intake do reach out to us.
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Didn't find the answer you are looking for?
Talk to experienced dietitian online and get your health questions answered in just 5 minutes.
+105
Yes, just a pinch ( less than 100 mg ) occasionally- not daily
Always mix with lemon juice , water and ghee - never eat raw
Avoid :
Kidney stone
Thyroid disorder
High calcium levels
Pregnancy and lactation
Pros :
Calcium sources
Acidity relief
Bone and joint support
Iron and vitamin D absorption support
Cons :
Toxic in excess
Kidney and gallstones risk
May interfere with nutrients absorption
Can harm stomach lining
Hormonal/ Thyroid imbalance risk
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
No this should not be consumed as it contains calcium carbonate which is not absorbed by the body. It can cause mouth ulcers and cause kidney stones. https://www.instagram.com/reel/dp3c6tdenrw/?igsh=b2k1d3A0ZjlmYjU5 check this out for the full information
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Not good
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Eating edible limestone, also known as chuna, is not a safe or recommended way to get calcium.
Limestone is mainly calcium carbonate, which in its raw form is poorly absorbed by the body and can irritate the mouth, stomach, and intestines. Regular intake can lead to constipation, kidney stones, high calcium levels in the blood, and even long-term damage to the kidneys or bones. It may also contain impurities like lead or arsenic if not purified properly.
If you need more calcium, it is far better to get it from food sources like milk, curd, paneer, ragi, sesame seeds, or green vegetables, or from a prescribed calcium supplement that is safe and absorbable.
Please avoid eating limestone. If you have cravings for it, it might indicate iron deficiency, which can be checked through a simple blood test. You can connect with me on Practo for a one-on-one discussion about your symptoms.
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Although, edible limestone has been used traditionally, there’s always the risk of taking excess, or not getting a food quality grade.
The best way is to include calcium rich foods or supplements in the right amounts.
Do a blood test for calcium and also check for Vitamin D
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Ms. Priya Gupta
Dietitian/Nutritionist
2 yrs exp
Varanasi
Hello! No it is not safe in today's time.
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Ms. Mini Thomas
Dietitian/Nutritionist
21 yrs exp
Chennai
Good evening,
Ensure purity before consuming.
Can have in small amount along with pan.
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Ms. Ridhima Dhingra
Dietitian/Nutritionist
22 yrs exp
Bangalore
NOT AT ALL
Answered
Flag this answer
Let others know if this answer was helpful
Was this answer helpful?
YES
NO
Articles you may like
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.
The question asked on this page is a free question. You can ask a free health question by downloading the Practo app.
Articles you may like
Tell us what's troubling you
Tell us what's troubling you
Disclaimer : The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.