NESS Nutritional Enzyme Support System Digest Chewables

Our assessment

The evidence shows that this product contains calcium, a mineral essential for bone health and nerve function. However, the data on high calcium intake raises important safety considerations you need to be aware of [NIH ODS]. Based on the available information, we cannot recommend this supplement without understanding your total dietary calcium intake and current health status.

How it works

Calcium plays a dual role in your body. It supports bone mineralization by helping deposit minerals into your skeleton, and it assists with neuromuscular relaxation by supporting proper muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all products. Specific side effects reported for high calcium intake include constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [FDA data] [NIH ODS]. High calcium intakes might also increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of medications such as bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Data not available on the specific number of reports for this exact product.

Our recommendation

Start by assessing your total daily calcium intake from food and other supplements. Do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level without medical supervision. If you take any of the listed medications, separate calcium intake by at least 2 hours. Most importantly, consult your physician before starting this supplement, as high calcium levels can be dangerous [NIH ODS].

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