NOW Pure, Buffered Magnesium Ascorbate
Brand: NOW · Form: POWDER [E0162] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a vital mineral for bone health, but supplementation requires careful consideration. For this specific product, NOW Pure, Buffered Magnesium Ascorbate, data on the calcium content is not available, so we must rely on general calcium data from the provided sources [NIH ODS]. Our assessment is that while calcium supports bone density and neuromuscular function, the risks associated with high intake are significant and must be managed [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your bones and a messenger for your nerves and muscles. It plays a key role in bone mineralization, helping to deposit minerals and maintain bone density. It also supports neuromuscular relaxation, which helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
The FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for all supplements, but specific data for this product is not available. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels can cause 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]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Given the lack of specific data for this product and the potential risks of high calcium intake, we recommend you do not use this supplement without first consulting your doctor. You should have your calcium levels tested and discuss any medications you take to avoid negative interactions. If you need calcium, focus on dietary sources first and only supplement under medical supervision [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 8.0 Oz(s) 227.0 Gram(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