Swanson Probiotic For Kids Natural Cherry Flavored
Brand: Swanson · Form: TABLET [E0155]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product contains calcium, a mineral essential for bone health. For children, meeting the recommended daily intake is important, but the data on supplementation is mixed. Our assessment is that you should focus on getting calcium from food first, as some research suggests high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a building block for your child's growing skeleton. It supports bone density and mineral deposition through bone mineralization, and it also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping muscles relax and nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592059 total adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium specifically, high levels 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]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Data not available for specific dosage or flavor safety for this product. We recommend you prioritize calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified foods for your child. If you are considering a supplement, consult your pediatrician to determine if your child truly needs it and to avoid potential interactions with any medications [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Swanson |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Chewable Tablet(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