California Academy of Health Liquid Calmag Calcium & Magnesium Vitamin Mineral Complex

Our assessment

The evidence shows that this product provides two essential minerals, but you need to be aware of significant safety considerations. Calcium is crucial for bone health, and magnesium supports muscle and nerve function, but the FDA has received 592,059 total adverse event reports for this category of supplements, which is a substantial number [FDA data]. Our assessment is that you should only use this supplement if you have a confirmed deficiency, and you must be cautious about the dosage and potential interactions.

How it works

Calcium works as a key structural component for bone mineralization, helping to build and maintain bone density [NIH ODS]. It also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, which supports proper muscle relaxation and nerve signaling throughout your body [NIH ODS]. Magnesium complements this by supporting over 300 biochemical reactions, though specific data on magnesium's mechanism in this product is not provided.

Safety profile

The safety profile carries serious warnings. High calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. 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]. Data on side effects specific to this product's magnesium content is not available.

Our recommendation

We recommend you do not take this supplement without first discussing it with your doctor. Because of the potential for serious side effects, including heart rhythm problems and medication interactions, you should have your blood calcium levels checked and review any other medications you take [NIH ODS]. If your healthcare provider confirms a need, start with the lowest effective dose and monitor for symptoms like nausea or constipation [NIH ODS] [FDA data].

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