NOW Cholesterol Support
Brand: NOW · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that NOW Cholesterol Support contains calcium, which is a mineral essential for bone health and nerve function [NIH ODS]. However, based on the data provided, we cannot assess the specific effectiveness of this product for managing cholesterol levels. Data on the product’s other ingredients and their combined effect is not available.
How it works
Calcium works in two primary ways: it supports bone mineralization, helping to deposit minerals for strong bones, and it aids neuromuscular relaxation, supporting proper muscle and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. These functions are critical for your overall health, but they do not directly address cholesterol management.
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement categories [FDA data]. For calcium specifically, safety concerns include that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Very high blood calcium levels 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
Based on the data provided, we cannot recommend NOW Cholesterol Support for cholesterol management, as the evidence does not support this use. If you are considering this product for its calcium content, be aware of the potential risks and interactions listed above. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement, especially if you take prescription medications [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 90.0 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