Nature's Way Calcium Citrate
Brand: Nature's Way · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a foundational mineral for your bone health, but the form and dose matter. Nature's Way Calcium Citrate provides a form of calcium that is generally well-absorbed, even if you take it without food. Our assessment is that this supplement is a reasonable choice for meeting your calcium needs, but you must pay close attention to total daily intake from all sources to avoid potential risks [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as the structural building block for your skeleton. It is essential for bone mineralization, helping to deposit minerals into your bone matrix to maintain density [NIH ODS]. Beyond your bones, calcium also supports neuromuscular relaxation, meaning it helps your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly after they have been stimulated [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA has received a total of 592059 adverse event reports for this product category [FDA data]. While calcium is vital, too much can be problematic. Some research suggests high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. High levels in your 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]. 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
Data not available for a specific daily dose from this product's label. However, based on general guidance, we recommend you calculate your total daily calcium intake from food and supplements to stay within safe limits. Take calcium citrate with or without food, and separate it from any medications listed in the interactions by at least two hours. If you take other medications, consult your pharmacist or doctor before starting this supplement [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Nature's Way |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 250.0 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