Nature's Life Magnesium 500 mg
Brand: Nature's Life · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product contains 500 mg of elemental calcium, a mineral essential for bone health. However, we must be clear: the data on calcium supplementation is nuanced. While it supports bone density, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. For most adults, getting calcium from food is preferable, and you should only supplement if your diet is lacking.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your skeleton. It supports bone mineralization and density by depositing into bone tissue [NIH ODS]. Additionally, it plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles and nerves signal properly after contraction [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA has received 592,059 adverse event reports for this product category. Side effects from high calcium intake include constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [FDA data] [NIH ODS]. Importantly, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. High levels in blood and urine can also cause poor muscle tone and poor kidney function [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Do not start this supplement without first assessing your dietary calcium intake. If you take it, take it separately from other medications by at least two hours. We recommend aiming for 1,000–1,200 mg total daily calcium from all sources, but do not exceed that without medical supervision. Data not available on the specific brand or other ingredients in this product.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Nature's Life |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 250.0 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