NOW Red Omega
Brand: NOW · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that the calcium in NOW Red Omega is well-recognized for bone health, but we advise you to be cautious with dosing. This product provides a mineral that supports bone density, but the data also flags significant risks at high intakes, including a potential increased risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Our assessment is that you should treat this supplement as a targeted tool, not a daily necessity, unless you have a confirmed deficiency.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder and a signaler for your body. It works through two key mechanisms: bone mineralization, which helps deposit minerals into your skeleton for strength, and neuromuscular relaxation, which supports proper muscle function and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. This means it plays a direct role in keeping your bones dense and your muscles working smoothly.
Safety profile
Safety data is mixed and warrants your attention. The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements [FDA data]. For calcium specifically, high levels in the blood and urine can cause constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Additionally, high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. You should also know that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
We recommend you do not take this supplement without first assessing your dietary intake and discussing it with your doctor. Because high levels carry serious risks like kidney problems and heart complications, you should only use calcium if a blood test confirms you are low. If you are on any medications — especially thyroid medication or antibiotics — take calcium at least two hours apart to avoid absorption issues [NIH ODS]. Data not available on the specific dose in this product, so start low and monitor for side effects like constipation or nausea [NIH ODS] [FDA data].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 90.0 Softgel(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