Nature's Plus Source of Life Gold Mini-Tabs

Our assessment

The evidence shows that this product contains calcium, a mineral essential for bone health. However, you should be aware of the specific risks and limitations associated with calcium supplementation based on the data provided. Our assessment is that while calcium supports bone density, you must consider potential safety concerns and interactions before starting any supplement [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of calcium as a key structural component for your body. It works through two primary mechanisms: it supports bone mineralization, helping to build and maintain strong bone density, and it supports neuromuscular relaxation, which is critical for proper muscle and nerve signaling [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for this product category. You should know that some research suggests high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels of calcium in the blood and urine can cause 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] [FDA data].

Our recommendation

Given the potential risks, you should not take calcium supplements unless you have a confirmed deficiency and are under a doctor's care. Be especially cautious if you take medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, or phenytoin, as calcium can reduce their absorption [NIH ODS]. Data on the specific benefits of this product for general health is not available, so our recommendation is to discuss your individual needs with a healthcare professional before use.

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