NOW Clinical GI Probiotic
Brand: NOW · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is essential for bone health and muscle function, but the data is clear that supplementation requires careful attention to dosage and timing. For a general audience, we recommend prioritizing dietary sources and using supplements only to fill a verified gap. Data on the specific product "NOW Clinical GI Probiotic" is not available, so our assessment is based on the calcium ingredient data provided.
How it works
Think of calcium as the building block for your skeleton and a key regulator for your nervous system. It supports bone mineralization by helping deposit minerals into your bone matrix, and it promotes neuromuscular relaxation by aiding in nerve signaling and muscle relaxation [NIH ODS]. Without adequate calcium, your body will leach it from your bones, which can compromise bone density over time [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium specifically, high intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Side effects from very high blood or urine calcium levels include 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 medications like bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by getting your blood calcium levels checked. If you are low, aim for a calcium supplement that does not exceed 500 mg per dose to maximize absorption. Always take calcium supplements separately from the medications listed above by at least two hours. Choose a form like calcium citrate if you have digestive concerns. Do not exceed the daily recommended intake without a healthcare provider's guidance [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Veg Capsule(s) |
| Market Status | Off 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