Lee Haney's Nutritional Support Systems Life's Vitality Multi Vitamin/Mineral Complex

Our assessment

The evidence shows that this product contains calcium, a mineral with well-documented benefits for bone health. However, you should be aware of the potential risks associated with high calcium intake, which include an increased risk of heart disease and prostate cancer, as well as side effects like constipation, nausea, and abnormal heart rhythms [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of calcium as a key structural component for your body. It works by supporting bone density and mineral deposition, a process called bone mineralization. Calcium also plays a critical role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

Data not available for this specific product's side effects. However, for the ingredient calcium, high intakes can lead to poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all dietary supplements, but specific data for this product is not available [FDA data].

Our recommendation

Start by evaluating your total calcium intake from food and other supplements. Be aware of the potential interactions with medications you may be taking. Given the serious risks associated with high calcium levels, we recommend consulting with your healthcare provider before adding this supplement to your routine [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