NOW Bone Calcium
Brand: NOW · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a foundational mineral for bone health, and NOW Bone Calcium is a straightforward supplement to help you meet your needs. Our assessment: This product can be effective for supporting bone density, but you must be careful with dosing and timing to avoid risks and interactions [NIH ODS].
How it works
Calcium is essential for bone mineralization, meaning it helps deposit minerals into your bone structure to maintain density and strength. It also supports neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly after contraction [NIH ODS]. Think of calcium as the building block your body uses every day to keep your skeleton strong and your muscles functioning smoothly.
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports for products in this category. Regarding calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Very 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].
Our recommendation
Take calcium with food and separate it from medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin by at least 2 hours, as calcium can reduce their absorption [NIH ODS]. Start with a single daily dose and do not exceed the amount recommended for your age and gender without a doctor’s guidance. If you have a history of kidney stones, heart disease, or prostate cancer, speak with your healthcare provider before using this supplement [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 120.0 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