21st Century Psyllium plus Calcium
Brand: 21st Century · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product combines psyllium fiber with calcium, but the primary active ingredient with established data is calcium. For bone health, calcium is a critical mineral, but you should be aware that the data on high intakes includes some potential risks [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your bones and a signal conductor for your nerves. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for this product. For the calcium component specifically, high levels 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. Some research also suggests high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [FDA data] [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by checking your current calcium intake from food and other supplements. Calcium can reduce the absorption of bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin, so take this product at least two hours apart from those medications [NIH ODS]. We recommend you do not exceed 2,000 mg of total calcium per day from all sources to avoid the risks associated with high intake [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | 21st Century |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 120.0 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