NOW Sports Branched Chain Amino Acids
Brand: NOW Sports · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that the active ingredient in this supplement, calcium, is essential for bone health and nerve function. However, based on the data, calcium supplementation requires careful consideration due to potential risks. Our assessment is that you should not take this supplement without first evaluating your dietary intake and discussing it with your healthcare provider [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural and signaling mineral. It supports bone mineralization, helping to build and maintain bone density, and it is critical for neuromuscular relaxation, which allows your muscles and nerves to function properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Safety data is mixed. The FDA has received 592,059 total adverse event reports for this product. Specific side effects from high calcium intake include constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, and abnormal heart rhythms [FDA data]. Additionally, high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Data not available for a specific dose recommendation from the provided materials. Do not take this supplement unless you have a confirmed calcium deficiency. If you do take it, take it separately from other medications by at least two hours. We cannot recommend this product for general use due to the significant safety concerns reported [NIH ODS] [FDA data].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW Sports |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 240.0 Capsule(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