NOW Red Omega
Brand: NOW · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161]
Our assessment
Our assessment: The evidence shows that the primary active ingredient in NOW Red Omega is calcium, which is a well-researched mineral for bone health. However, the data provided does not include any specific clinical studies on this product itself, so we must rely on the general properties of calcium. For most adults, achieving adequate calcium intake through diet is effective, but supplementation requires careful dosing to avoid risks [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your bones. It supports bone mineralization and mineral deposition, helping maintain bone density. Additionally, it plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, which is essential for proper muscle function and nerve signaling [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Safety profile: According to FDA data, there have been 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements, but specific report counts for calcium are not available in this data set. High calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer, and 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] [FDA data]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: If you choose to take NOW Red Omega, do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level for calcium without consulting a healthcare provider. Be aware of potential interactions with medications you take. For most people, getting calcium from food sources is safer and more effective. Data not available for specific dosing or long-term studies on this product [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 180.0 Softgel(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