NOW Full Spectrum Mineral Caps
Brand: NOW · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a foundational mineral for your health, but it requires careful management. Our assessment is that while calcium supports critical functions like bone density and nerve signaling, the data on high intake raises important safety concerns you need to know about [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder and a signal messenger. It works in two key ways: first, it supports bone mineralization and density by depositing minerals into your skeleton; second, it helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Data not available for specific adverse events for this product. However, high levels of calcium 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]. Some research also suggests that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by evaluating your total calcium intake from food and other supplements. Be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. You should take calcium at a different time than these medications. Because of the potential risks from high intakes, we recommend you do not exceed the Tolerable Upper Intake Level without guidance from your healthcare provider [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 240.0 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