NOW Coral Calcium Powder
Brand: NOW · Form: POWDER [E0162]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is essential for bone health, but the specific form in NOW Coral Calcium Powder does not offer proven advantages over standard calcium supplements. Our assessment is that you should focus on meeting your total calcium needs from diet and supplements, rather than seeking a special source like coral calcium [NIH ODS].
How it works
Calcium is a master regulator in your body. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it is critical for neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. Think of it as the raw material your body uses to keep your skeleton strong and your muscles functioning smoothly.
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all products, but specific data for coral calcium is not available. Side effects from high calcium intake include constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, and abnormal heart rhythms [NIH ODS]. High levels can also increase the risk of kidney problems and heart disease [NIH ODS]. Calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, and levothyroxine [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by calculating your total daily calcium intake from food and other supplements. For most adults, the goal is 1,000 to 1,200 mg per day from all sources [NIH ODS]. There is no evidence that coral calcium is superior to standard calcium carbonate or citrate. We recommend choosing a standard, well-tested calcium supplement and taking it with food for best absorption [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 6.0 oz. 170.0 g |
| 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