Natrol Melatonin 3 mg

Our assessment

The evidence shows that calcium is crucial for bone health, but our assessment is that you should approach supplementation with caution. While it supports bone density and nerve function, the data suggests that high intakes may carry risks, including a potential link to heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of calcium as a structural builder and a cellular messenger. It supports bone mineralization by depositing minerals into your skeleton, and it also helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

Data not available for specific side effects of this product. However, the FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements [FDA data]. High calcium levels can cause constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS].

Our recommendation

Our recommendation is to get your calcium from food first. If you must supplement, be aware that calcium can interfere with medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, and levothyroxine [NIH ODS]. Discuss your intake with your doctor to avoid exceeding safe levels.

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