Solgar Chelated Iron
Brand: Solgar · Form: TABLET [E0155]
Our assessment
Our assessment: For a general audience seeking to support bone health, calcium is a foundational mineral. The data confirms it plays a critical role in bone mineralization and neuromuscular function [NIH ODS]. However, we must be very careful with dosing, as the safety data shows significant risks associated with high intake.
How it works
Think of calcium as the structural building block for your skeleton. It directly supports bone density and mineral deposition, and it is equally essential for muscle relaxation and nerve signaling throughout your body [NIH ODS]. Without adequate calcium, your body will leach it from your bones to support these vital functions.
Safety profile
The FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium specifically, the data warns that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Extremely high blood and urine levels can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of bisphosphonates, tetracycline and fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: Do not exceed the RDA without a doctor's guidance. Take calcium with food to improve absorption, and be aware of the serious interactions with thyroid medication and antibiotics [NIH ODS]. Always separate calcium supplements from these medications by at least two hours. For most adults, getting calcium from food sources is safer than relying on high-dose supplements [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Solgar |
|---|---|
| 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