Basic Vitamins Stress Formula with Zinc
Brand: Basic Vitamins · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that Basic Vitamins Stress Formula with Zinc is a multivitamin and mineral supplement. Our assessment is that while it contains beneficial nutrients, you should understand the specific role and risks of key ingredients like calcium. The data supports that calcium is important for bone and nerve health, but there are important safety considerations you need to know [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder and signal messenger for your body. It supports bone mineralization, helping to maintain bone density and mineral deposition. Additionally, calcium supports neuromuscular relaxation, which is essential for proper muscle relaxation and nerve signaling throughout your body [NIH ODS]. This is why calcium is a critical component in a stress formula, as stress can tax your nervous system.
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for this product category [FDA data]. For the ingredient calcium specifically, the data shows that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels of calcium in your 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]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation is to take this supplement only as directed on the label. Because calcium can interact with many common medications, you must speak with your doctor or pharmacist if you take any prescription drugs. If you experience symptoms like nausea, constipation, or extreme tiredness, stop taking the product and consult a healthcare professional. Do not exceed the recommended dose, as high calcium intakes carry significant health risks [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Basic Vitamins |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Tablet(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