NOW Ultra Omega-3
Brand: NOW · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a foundational mineral for bone health, but it requires careful dosing and monitoring. Based on the data, calcium supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. However, the safety profile demands your attention, as excess intake carries significant risks [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your skeleton and a signal conductor for your nerves and muscles. It works through bone mineralization to support density and mineral deposition, and it aids neuromuscular relaxation to support muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592059 total adverse event reports for this product. The data on high calcium intakes shows specific risks: high levels 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]. Some research also suggests that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by evaluating your total calcium intake from food and supplements. The data cautions that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. If you take any of these, separate calcium intake by at least two hours. Do not exceed the recommended dietary allowance without medical supervision, as the risks of high intake are serious [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