Swanson Ultra Potency Probiotic
Brand: Swanson · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that the primary active ingredient in this product is calcium, which plays a well-documented role in bone health. However, there is no data provided to support the specific "Probiotic" claim on the label, and the safety profile of calcium requires careful attention to dosing. Our assessment is that this product may be useful for calcium supplementation, but its probiotic benefits are not supported by the data provided.
How it works
Calcium is a master regulator for two key functions: it supports bone mineralization by helping deposit minerals into bone tissue, and it supports neuromuscular relaxation by aiding muscle and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. Think of it as the structural building block your body needs for strong bones and proper muscle function.
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Side effects from high calcium levels include 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]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
We recommend you use this product only if you need calcium supplementation, and you should discuss your total calcium intake from food and other supplements with your healthcare provider. Take calcium supplements at least two hours apart from any medications listed in the interactions. Do not exceed the recommended dose on the label, as high levels of calcium carry serious risks. The probiotic claim is not supported by the available data, so do not rely on this product for digestive or immune health benefits [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Swanson |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Veggie DRcap(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