Nature's Sunshine Magnesium
Brand: Nature's Sunshine · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that Nature's Sunshine Magnesium is a supplement that provides calcium as its primary listed ingredient. Data for the specific product is limited, but the available information on calcium provides a clear picture. Our assessment: calcium is essential for bone health, but you need to be aware of potential risks and medication interactions before starting supplementation [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block and a cellular messenger. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, which is critical for maintaining strong bones. Additionally, it plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
The FDA received 592,059 adverse event reports for products containing this ingredient. Safety data from the NIH ODS indicates 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] [FDA data]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by reviewing the specific Nature's Sunshine label for dosage, as data for this product is not available. Before taking calcium, check with your doctor if you take any of the medications listed above. Be cautious with high doses due to the risks of heart disease and kidney issues. For most adults, getting calcium from food is preferred, and supplements should only be used under medical guidance [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Nature's Sunshine |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 180.0 Tablet(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