Life Extension Calcium Citrate with Vitamin D
Brand: Life Extension · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium, as found in this supplement, is critical for bone health, but you need to be careful with dosing. The data confirms that calcium supports bone mineralization and density, as well as muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. However, this product’s value depends on how much calcium you already get from food and whether you truly need a supplement.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your skeleton. It helps deposit minerals into your bones to keep them dense and strong. At the same time, it acts as a neuromuscular regulator, helping your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS]. The vitamin D in this formula is meant to help your body absorb that calcium more efficiently.
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports for this product type, though this number covers all versions of the formula. Regarding calcium specifically, high intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer, and high levels in the blood 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]. You should also know that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: Do not start this supplement unless you know your dietary calcium intake is low. If you take it, separate it from your thyroid or antibiotic medications by at least two hours. Stick to the label dose — do not exceed 1,000–1,200 mg of total calcium per day from all sources [NIH ODS]. For most people, getting calcium from food is safer and more effective.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 200.0 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