Nature's Sunshine Vitamin C Ascorbates
Brand: Nature's Sunshine · Form: POWDER [E0162] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that Nature's Sunshine Vitamin C Ascorbates contains calcium, a mineral essential for bone health. Our assessment is that while calcium is necessary, you should be aware of the specific risks and interactions associated with supplementation. The data does not provide specific vitamin C information for this product, so we focus on the calcium ingredient listed.
How it works
Calcium acts as a master regulator for your body's structure and signaling. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS]. Think of it as both the building block for your skeleton and a key part of your nervous system's communication network.
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplement categories, but specific report counts for this product are not available. The key safety concern is that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Symptoms of excessively high calcium in the blood and urine include poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by reviewing your total calcium intake from food and other supplements. Take calcium separately from the medications listed above by at least two hours. Monitor for any side effects like constipation or nausea. Data not available on the specific calcium dosage in this product, so check the label carefully. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider before starting this supplement, especially if you have a history of kidney stones, heart disease, or take prescription medications [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Nature's Sunshine |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 9.0 Oz(s) 256.5 Gram(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