NOW Vitamin D-3 1,000 IU
Brand: NOW · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that vitamin D is a well-studied supplement for bone health. For this specific product, NOW Vitamin D-3 1,000 IU, the primary active ingredient is vitamin D3, which supports calcium absorption and bone mineralization [NIH ODS]. We recommend it for most adults who need to maintain adequate vitamin D levels, especially if you have limited sun exposure.
How it works
Think of vitamin D as a master regulator for calcium in your body. It helps your intestines absorb calcium from food, which is essential for bone density and strength. Without enough vitamin D, your body cannot use calcium effectively, even if you consume plenty of it [NIH ODS]. This process supports neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements, but specific side effect counts for this exact product are not available in the data provided. General safety data from NIH ODS indicates that very high calcium intakes can cause constipation, nausea, and abnormal heart rhythms [NIH ODS]. For vitamin D, toxicity is rare at 1,000 IU daily but can occur with excessive long-term use. Data not available for specific side effects of this product alone from the FDA data provided.
Our recommendation
Start with one softgel of NOW Vitamin D-3 1,000 IU daily with a meal that contains fat for best absorption. This dose is appropriate for most adults. If you take medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, or levothyroxine, take your supplement at least two hours apart from these drugs to avoid absorption issues [NIH ODS]. Have your blood levels checked after three months to ensure you are in the optimal range.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 90.0 Softgel(s) |
| Market Status | On 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