NOW Coral Calcium Plus
Brand: NOW · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is essential for bone health, but the specific product NOW Coral Calcium Plus does not have unique benefits over standard calcium supplements. Our assessment: You can get the same bone-supporting effects from more affordable, standard calcium carbonate or citrate supplements. The data does not support claims that coral calcium is superior [NIH ODS].
How it works
Calcium acts as a master regulator for your bones and nerves. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS]. Think of it as the structural building block your skeleton needs every day to stay strong.
Safety profile
FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements, though specific data for this product is not available. For calcium specifically, side effects can include constipation, nausea, and weight loss [NIH ODS]. High levels in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. High intakes may also increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start with a standard calcium supplement that provides 500–600 mg per dose, taken with food for best absorption. Choose a product with the USP or ConsumerLab seal for quality assurance. Do not exceed the Tolerable Upper Intake Level of 2,500 mg per day from all sources [NIH ODS]. Talk to your doctor before starting if you take medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, or levothyroxine, as calcium can reduce their absorption [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 Veg 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