NOW Sports Amino Complete

Our assessment

The evidence shows that the primary active ingredient in NOW Sports Amino Complete is calcium, based on the available data. While calcium is essential for bone health, the specific combination and amounts in this product require careful consideration. Our assessment is that this supplement may support your bone density and muscle function, but you should be aware of the significant safety concerns associated with high calcium intake [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of calcium as a structural builder and signal transmitter. It supports bone mineralization, helping to deposit minerals into your skeleton for density and strength. It also plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, allowing your muscles to relax and your nerves to signal properly after contraction [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

The FDA has received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplement categories, but specific report counts for this product are not available. Data for calcium indicates that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Very 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]. You should also be aware that calcium supplements can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].

Our recommendation

We recommend you do not exceed the RDA for calcium from all sources (food and supplements) without a doctor's guidance. Given the potential risks associated with high calcium intake, including heart disease and serious side effects, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider before starting this supplement. They can help you determine if this product is appropriate for your specific needs and check for potential interactions with any medications you are taking [NIH ODS].

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