NOW Probiotic-10 50 Billion Powder
Brand: NOW · Form: POWDER [E0162]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for bone health, but the risks of supplementation are significant and often overlooked. For most people, getting calcium from food is safer and more effective than taking high-dose supplements [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder and signal messenger for your body. It supports bone density through mineralization and helps your muscles relax and nerves communicate properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all dietary supplements. Specific safety concerns for calcium include that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. 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] [FDA data].
Our recommendation
Do not take calcium supplements without first reviewing your diet and discussing with your doctor. Calcium can reduce the absorption of bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Focus on food sources first, and only supplement if your healthcare provider confirms you are not meeting your needs through diet alone.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 2.0 oz. 57.0 Gram(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