Nature's Sunshine Loclo

Our assessment

The evidence shows that the key active ingredient in Nature's Sunshine Loclo is calcium. Based on the provided data, calcium is best understood as a mineral that supports bone health and nerve function. However, the data does not provide specific dosage information for this product, so you should always check the label for precise amounts. Data not available for specific product claims beyond the ingredient calcium.

How it works

Think of calcium as a structural builder for your bones and a signal transmitter for your nerves. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

There are 592,059 total adverse event reports on file with the FDA for all supplements, though specific reports for this product are not listed. For calcium specifically, high intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Signs of excessive calcium include poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce absorption of bisphosphonates, tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].

Our recommendation

Start by reading the product label to confirm the exact calcium dosage per serving. Because calcium can interact with several common medications, take this supplement at least two hours apart from any prescription drugs. If you have a history of kidney stones, heart disease, or prostate cancer, speak with your doctor before using this product. Data not available for a specific daily dose recommendation for this brand.

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