Swanson Ultra Zinc Orotate
Brand: Swanson Ultra · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this supplement provides calcium in the orotate form, which is a mineral salt. For bone health, the data confirms that calcium supports bone density and mineral deposition [NIH ODS]. However, the specific benefits of the orotate form over other forms are not established in the data provided.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your bones. It works through two main mechanisms: supporting bone mineralization to keep your skeleton dense, and aiding neuromuscular relaxation, which helps 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 may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High blood levels 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] [FDA data].
Our recommendation
Start by assessing your total daily calcium intake from food and other supplements. Be aware that calcium can reduce absorption of bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Data on the specific orotate form's absorption or unique benefits is not available.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Swanson Ultra |
|---|---|
| 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