NOW Ultra Omega-3
Brand: NOW · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for bone health, but supplementation requires careful consideration. Our assessment is that you should prioritize getting calcium from food first, and only use supplements to fill a verified gap. The data confirms that calcium supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular function [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your skeleton. It works by supporting bone density and mineral deposition, and it also plays a role in muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. Without enough calcium, your body will leach it from your bones, which can weaken them over time.
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium specifically, high intakes may 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]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by assessing your dietary intake. If you need a supplement, keep total calcium from all sources below the tolerable upper intake level. Take calcium supplements separately from medications listed above by at least 2 hours. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting, especially if you have a history of kidney stones or heart conditions [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 180.0 Softgel(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