[:"blue"] Glider Greetings: <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wave.gif" alt="" />

There have been quite a few posts asking about alternative sources of calcium for gliders. "TUMS" have been suggested as an alternative; but, generally, the consensus was they weren't a good idea.

I noticed this note that was included as part of the Taronga Zoo Glider diet:

</font><blockquote><font class="small">Quote:</font><hr />
Note: without native foods, i.e., in North America, need to add calcium to this diet: Sprinkle lightly with calcium carbonate - ground fruit flavored Tums® or equivalent.

<hr /></blockquote><font class="post">

[:"blue"]I'm not advocating that everyone run out and revise their diets. Just found this to be an interesting tidbit that might interest others. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />
[/]

Thanks Randy for bringing this to everyones attention! You know how to dig up all the dirt! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

<img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wave.gif" alt="" />Randy...I read where tums are not even good for humans on a regular basis as there is a high content of aluminum in them... <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worried2.gif" alt="" />

[:"blue"] Glider Greetings, Patches: <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/wave.gif" alt="" />

I took a quick cruise through the Web and couldn't find any information that suggested TUMS had aluminum in them. In fact a medical help site said the following:


</font><blockquote><font class="small">Quote:</font><hr />
"2. Avoid aluminum containing antacids. The main ones are Mylanta and Maalox. Acceptable alternatives include Tums and Rolaids which are pure calcium and also help to build dense bones."

<hr /></blockquote><font class="post"> [:"blue"]

From what my quick search turned up, TUMS may be guilty by association. There are a number of antacids that do contain aluminum; but, "TUMS" doesn't seem to be one of them.

If you can point me to a specific reference, I would be really interested to see what it has to say.

BTW, I am pleased to see that you decided to hang around. I felt that your posts were always insightful and educational. And I agree .......I liked the old board better. Sadly or happily, depending on your perspective, we just got too big and had to move on.

Concerning the quote above, don't believe everything you see on the Internet. I got this from a Colgate University Chemistry Web site......

[:"purple"]Rolaids(NaAl(OH)2CO30), which contain aluminum sodium dihydroxycarbonate, use both carbonate and hydroxide ions to neutralize "excess" stomach acid.

[:"blue"]Seems like you have to double check everything you find since there is so much contradictory information out there. [/]