NOW Ultra Omega 3-D
Brand: NOW · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is essential for bone health, but the data on this specific product is limited to the ingredient calcium. Our assessment: you should be cautious with calcium supplementation unless you have a confirmed deficiency, as the data highlights significant risks at high intakes.
How it works
Think of calcium as a building block for your skeleton. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, and it also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. If you are taking this product, the omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil may support heart and brain health, but the primary mineral action here is calcium.
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Side effects from high calcium levels include poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Data not available on side effect report counts specific to calcium alone.
Our recommendation
Start by getting your calcium from food sources first. If you take a supplement, do not exceed the RDA without medical supervision. Be aware of medication interactions and watch for symptoms like constipation or nausea. Choose a product with a clear label and consult your doctor before starting [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 180.0 Fish 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