Life Extension Branched Chain Amino Acids (Free Form)
Brand: Life Extension · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product contains calcium, which is essential for health. However, the data on calcium supplementation requires careful consideration. While adequate intake is critical for bone health, the risks associated with high intakes are significant [NIH ODS].
How it works
Calcium acts as a master regulator in your body. It supports bone density through bone mineralization and helps your muscles relax and nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium specifically, high intakes can increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Side effects of high calcium levels in blood and urine include 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].
Our recommendation
Focus on getting calcium from food first. If you supplement, do not exceed the RDA without medical supervision. Be aware that calcium can reduce absorption of bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 90.0 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