Integrative Therapeutics Para-Gard

Our assessment

The evidence shows that Integrative Therapeutics Para-Gard contains calcium, a mineral essential for bone health and nerve function. However, the data does not provide specific dosage information for this product, so you should compare the label against the recommended daily allowances. Our assessment is that calcium from supplements is effective for supporting bone density, but you must be cautious with total intake from all sources, including food [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of calcium as a structural building block for your skeleton. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling. For your body to function properly, calcium must be maintained within a narrow range in your blood [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

Safety data is important to review. The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all dietary supplements, though specific reports for this product are not available. For calcium specifically, some research suggests that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels of calcium in the blood and urine 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] [FDA data].

Our recommendation

We recommend you check the label of Integrative Therapeutics Para-Gard for the exact calcium dosage. Be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin. You should take calcium supplements at a different time from these medications. Start by assessing your total daily calcium intake from food to avoid exceeding safe upper limits, and consult your healthcare provider before starting this supplement [NIH ODS].

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