Midlothian Laboratories Iron Chews

Our assessment

The evidence shows that calcium, the active ingredient in Midlothian Laboratories Iron Chews, is a critical mineral for your health, but it comes with important safety considerations. Based on the data provided, we can only speak to calcium's effects, not the iron content or the specific brand. You should be aware that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of calcium as a structural builder and signaler for your body. It supports bone density and mineral deposition through a process called bone mineralization. Additionally, calcium supports muscle relaxation and nerve signaling, which is why it is essential for neuromuscular function [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

Data not available for specific side effects of this product. However, for calcium in general, 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]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. The FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement categories, but a specific count for this product is not available [FDA data].

Our recommendation

Because the data only covers calcium and not the iron content or brand specifics, we cannot make a confident recommendation for Midlothian Laboratories Iron Chews. You should consult your doctor before starting this supplement, especially if you take any of the interacting medications listed above. If you do proceed, monitor for the side effects mentioned and be aware of the potential heart and cancer risks associated with high calcium intake [NIH ODS].

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