Swanson Probiotic Blend
Brand: Swanson · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a foundational mineral for bone health, but it is not a substitute for a probiotic. Since the product is labeled as a probiotic blend and the data provided is specifically about calcium, we must be clear: this analysis applies to the calcium content you might be seeking, not the probiotic itself. For bone support, the data confirms that calcium plays a critical role in bone mineralization and neuromuscular function [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a key building block for your skeleton. It supports bone density by depositing minerals into your bone matrix, and it also helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS]. If you are taking this supplement for bone health, calcium is the active ingredient you are relying on for those effects.
Safety profile
The FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements, though specific report counts for calcium alone are not available from this data. High calcium intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Side effects from excessive calcium include constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and poor kidney function [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of medications such as bisphosphonates, tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
If your goal is to support bone health, start by assessing your total calcium intake from food and supplements. Do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level without medical supervision. Always take calcium supplements separately from the medications listed above to avoid absorption issues [NIH ODS]. For the probiotic aspect of this product, data is not available to evaluate its effectiveness. Consult your healthcare provider to determine if this blend is appropriate for your needs.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Swanson |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Veggie Capsule(s) |
| Market Status | On 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