NOW Calcium Ascorbate
Brand: NOW · Form: POWDER [E0162] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is essential for bone health and nerve function, but you need to be careful with dosing. The data confirms that calcium supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. For most adults, the goal is to meet your needs through diet and supplement only when necessary.
How it works
Think of calcium as a key structural component for your bones and teeth. It also acts as a signaling molecule for your muscles and nerves, helping them relax and communicate properly [NIH ODS]. Without enough calcium, your body will leach it from your bones to support these critical functions.
Safety profile
FDA received 592059 total adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium specifically, high intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Side effects of high blood and urine calcium include 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]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by assessing your dietary calcium intake first. If you choose to supplement, take calcium with food and separate it from other medications by at least two hours. Data not available on specific dosing for this product, so follow the label instructions and do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level without medical supervision [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 3.0 lbs 1361.0 g |
| 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