Life Extension Iron Protein Plus 300 mg
Brand: Life Extension · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
Our assessment: The evidence shows that this product provides 300 mg of calcium per serving, but it is not a source of iron as the name "Iron Protein Plus" might suggest. Calcium is a mineral essential for bone health and nerve function, but the form and dose here are specific to calcium, not iron [NIH ODS]. We want to be clear: you should not rely on this product if you are seeking an iron supplement.
How it works
Calcium acts as a master regulator for your body's structural and signaling systems. It supports bone mineralization, which is the process of depositing minerals into your skeleton to maintain density and strength. It also plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and your nerves transmit signals properly [NIH ODS]. Think of calcium as the building block that keeps your bones strong and your nerves communicating smoothly.
Safety profile
Safety data is critical here. The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement products [FDA data]. For calcium specifically, high intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Excess calcium in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of medications such as bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: Only use this supplement if you have a confirmed need for additional calcium and your healthcare provider has recommended it. Be aware of the potential interactions with common medications. Do not exceed the recommended dose, and monitor for side effects like constipation or nausea. If you are seeking iron supplementation, data not available for this product—look for a dedicated iron supplement instead. Always consult your pharmacist or doctor before starting [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 Vegetarian 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