21st Century Calcium 600 + D
Brand: 21st Century · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this supplement combines two well-studied nutrients for bone health. Our assessment: a 600 mg dose of calcium with vitamin D can be a practical option for supporting your bone density, especially if you know your dietary intake is low [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as the primary building block for your skeleton. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. Vitamin D is added to help your body absorb that calcium more effectively.
Safety profile
Be aware of important safety considerations. Some research suggests that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Taking too much can lead to high blood and urine calcium levels, which may cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for all supplement categories, though this number is not specific to this product [FDA data]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: Start by assessing your total daily calcium intake from food. This supplement provides 600 mg, which is a standard supplemental dose. Take it with food for best absorption, and separate it from any medications you take by at least two hours. Always consult your doctor before starting, especially if you have a history of kidney stones or heart conditions [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | 21st Century |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 90.0 Softgel(s) |
| Market Status | Off Market |
How to Read This Label
Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:
- Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
- Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
- % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
- Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
- Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.
Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide