Equate Digestive Care Probiotic
Brand: Equate · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that the Equate Digestive Care Probiotic contains calcium as a key ingredient. Our assessment is that this product may support bone health, but you should be aware of the specific risks and medication interactions associated with calcium supplementation. The data does not provide specific information on the probiotic strains in this product, so we must focus on what is known about the calcium component [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your skeleton. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles and nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA has received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements, though this number is not specific to this product alone. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Side effects from high levels of calcium in the blood and urine 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 [FDA data] [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
You should be cautious with this product due to the calcium content. Check all other supplements and medications you take, as calcium can reduce the absorption of bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Consult your healthcare provider before starting this supplement, especially if you have a history of kidney problems or heart disease. Data not available on the specific probiotic strains in this product.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Equate |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 42.0 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