Equate Extra Care Probiotic
Brand: Equate · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that the Equate Extra Care Probiotic contains calcium, a mineral with well-documented benefits for bone health. However, you should be aware that calcium supplements come with specific safety considerations and potential interactions that may affect you. Data on the probiotic strains themselves is not available, so our assessment focuses on the calcium component.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your bones. It supports bone density and mineral deposition through a process called bone mineralization. Additionally, calcium plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
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. High levels of calcium in your 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].
Our recommendation
If you take this product, be mindful of your total calcium intake from all sources. Calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Separate your supplement from these medications by at least two hours. Given the potential risks at high levels, stick to the recommended dosage on the label and consult your doctor if you have kidney concerns or a history of heart disease.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Equate |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 50.0 Delayed Release Vegetarian 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