The Vitamin Shoppe Buffered C-Complex Powder

Our assessment

The evidence shows that The Vitamin Shoppe Buffered C-Complex Powder provides calcium, a mineral essential for bone health and nerve function. Data on this specific product is limited, so we rely on well-established information for calcium supplements [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of calcium as a building block for your skeleton. It supports bone mineralization and density, and also plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation — helping your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

FDA received 592,059 adverse event reports across all products. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer, and can cause constipation, nausea, weight loss, and abnormal heart rhythms [NIH ODS] [FDA data]. Calcium can also reduce absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, and levothyroxine [NIH ODS].

Our recommendation

Start by assessing your total daily calcium intake from food and supplements. Avoid exceeding the tolerable upper intake level unless directed by a physician. Take this supplement separately from other medications to prevent absorption issues [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