Pure Encapsulations B12 Folate

Our assessment

The evidence shows that Pure Encapsulations B12 Folate is a targeted supplement, but the data provided does not include specific information on vitamin B12 or folate. Instead, the data focuses on calcium. For calcium, our assessment is that it is a well-supported mineral for bone health, but you must be cautious with dosing. High calcium intakes are linked to risks including heart disease and prostate cancer, and side effects such as constipation, nausea, and abnormal heart rhythms have been reported [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of calcium as a structural and signaling mineral. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, which is critical for maintaining strong bones. It also plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

The FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium specifically, high levels 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 [FDA data] [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].

Our recommendation

Data not available for the specific ingredients in Pure Encapsulations B12 Folate. For calcium, we recommend you do not exceed the RDA without medical supervision. If you take calcium, separate it from other medications by at least two hours to avoid absorption issues. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor before starting a new supplement, especially if you have kidney concerns or take prescription medications [NIH ODS].

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