NOW Bone Calcium
Brand: NOW · Form: TABLET [E0155]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is essential for bone health, but you need to be precise about dosing and timing. The data confirms that calcium supports bone density and mineral deposition [NIH ODS]. However, high intakes are linked to serious risks, so you should approach supplementation with caution.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your skeleton. It works through bone mineralization to support bone density and mineral deposition, and it also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation to support muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplement categories. For calcium specifically, some research suggests that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. High levels of calcium in the blood and urine can 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].
Our recommendation
Start by getting calcium from food sources first. If you take a supplement, be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Consult your healthcare provider about the right dose for you, as data on the exact amount in this product is not available from the provided information.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 240.0 Tablet(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