The Vitamin Shoppe Calcium Magnesium Zinc
Brand: The Vitamin Shoppe · Form: TABLET [E0155]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that The Vitamin Shoppe Calcium Magnesium Zinc supplement can be a convenient way to support your bone health, but you need to be aware of important safety considerations. The primary ingredient, calcium, is well-studied for its role in bone mineralization and neuromuscular function [NIH ODS]. However, the data also reveals significant risks that you must weigh before adding this to your routine.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your bones, supporting bone density and mineral deposition [NIH ODS]. It also acts as a messenger for your nerves and muscles, supporting neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. This combination of minerals is often taken to support overall skeletal strength and muscle function.
Safety profile
FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for products like this [FDA data]. Regarding calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Side effects from high calcium levels can 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]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
We recommend you do not start this supplement without first consulting your doctor. You need to check for potential interactions with any medications you take, especially antibiotics and thyroid medication [NIH ODS]. If your doctor approves, be mindful of your total daily calcium intake from all sources, as high levels carry serious cardiovascular and kidney risks [NIH ODS]. Data not available for the specific amounts of calcium, magnesium, and zinc in this product, so you cannot confirm the dosage without the label.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | The Vitamin Shoppe |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 Tablet(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