Natures Plus Source of Life Animal Parade Children's Chewable Multi-Vitamin and Mineral Supplement

Our assessment

The evidence shows that this product contains calcium, a mineral essential for bone health. However, the data we have does not provide a full ingredient list or specific amounts per serving for this formulation. Our assessment is based solely on the calcium content, which is a key component of this children's multivitamin.

How it works

Calcium works primarily through bone mineralization, where it supports bone density and mineral deposition, and through neuromuscular relaxation, which supports muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. For your child, this means supporting strong, growing bones and a healthy nervous system.

Safety profile

The FDA has received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements, though specific reports for this product are not available in the provided data. For calcium specifically, some research suggests that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. High levels of calcium in the 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]. Calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].

Our recommendation

If you are considering this supplement for your child, ensure you are not giving additional calcium from other sources without consulting a pediatrician. Data not available on the exact calcium dose per serving in this product, so you should check the label carefully. A balanced diet remains the best source of nutrients for children. Always store supplements out of reach of children to prevent accidental overdose.

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