4 Today Chelated Iron
Brand: 4 Today · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for bone health, but supplementation requires careful consideration. Our assessment is that you should prioritize getting calcium from food sources first, as high-dose supplements carry significant risks. The data confirms that calcium supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your skeleton and a cellular messenger for your muscles and nerves. It is essential for bone density and mineral deposition, and it helps your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for all supplements in this category. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. 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]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by assessing your dietary calcium intake from dairy, leafy greens, and fortified foods before considering a supplement. If you do supplement, take it with food and separate it from any medications listed above by at least two hours. Do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level without a healthcare provider's guidance. Data not available on the specific form or dosage for this product [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | 4 Today |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 90.0 Capsule(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