Country Life Folate 800 mcg DFE Orange Flavor
Brand: Country Life · Form: SUPPLEMENT FORM, OTHER [E0172] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product contains calcium, a mineral essential for bone health. For you, the key question is whether you need a supplement, as most adults can meet their needs through diet. Data on the specific formulation of this product is limited, so our assessment focuses on the ingredient calcium itself.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your skeleton. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones as you age [NIH ODS]. It also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for all dietary supplements. For calcium specifically, some research suggests that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Very 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, and abnormal heart rhythms [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by evaluating your current calcium intake from food. Most adults need 1,000 to 1,200 mg daily from all sources. If you take this supplement, take it with food and separately from any thyroid or antibiotic medications by at least 2 hours [NIH ODS]. Given the potential risks associated with very high intakes, do not exceed the Tolerable Upper Intake Level without medical supervision [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Country Life |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 Chewable Wafer(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