Life Extension Super Omega-3
Brand: Life Extension · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a well-studied mineral essential for bone health, but we must be cautious with supplementation. The data confirms that calcium supports bone density and mineralization, as well as muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. However, the risk profile requires careful consideration before you start taking it.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your skeleton. It works through bone mineralization to maintain strong, dense bones, and it also plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles and nerves function properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports for this product category, though this number covers all reports for the brand, not just calcium. You should be aware that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. 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 [NIH ODS]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
We recommend you prioritize getting calcium from food sources first. If you do supplement, do not exceed the daily recommended intake without medical supervision. Always take calcium supplements separately from your other medications by at least two hours to avoid absorption issues [NIH ODS]. Discuss your personal risk factors for heart disease and kidney stones with your healthcare provider before starting [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Enteric Coated Softgel(s) |
| Market Status | Off 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