Douglas Laboratories Multi-Probiotic 15 Billion
Brand: Douglas Laboratories · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product contains calcium, a mineral with well-documented benefits for bone health. For a general audience, calcium supplementation can be helpful if you are not meeting your needs through diet, but it is not a one-size-fits-all recommendation. The data on this specific product is limited, so our assessment is based on the ingredient itself.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your bones and a messenger for your nerves and muscles. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Data not available for this specific product. However, for calcium in general, some research suggests that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. High levels in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. The total number of adverse event reports for all supplements tracked by the FDA is 592,059 [FDA data].
Our recommendation
Start by assessing your dietary calcium intake from food sources. If you are not getting enough, consider a low-dose supplement. Be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Consult your healthcare provider before starting, especially if you have kidney issues or take any of these medications [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Douglas Laboratories |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Vegetarian Acid-Resistant 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