Shaklee Herb-Lax
Brand: Shaklee · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that Shaklee Herb-Lax contains calcium as one of its ingredients. For a general audience seeking digestive support, it is important to understand what this specific mineral does and what risks are involved. Our assessment is that while calcium is essential for bone health, using it in a laxative product requires careful consideration of dosage and potential interactions.
How it works
Calcium supports bone mineralization and helps maintain bone density [NIH ODS]. It also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, which supports muscle function and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. In the context of a laxative, you should be aware that calcium can affect muscle tone in the digestive tract, but its primary role in this product is as a mineral supplement rather than a direct laxative agent.
Safety profile
FDA has received a total of 592059 adverse event reports for products in this category [FDA data]. For calcium specifically, high intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. 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]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Data not available on the exact calcium dosage in Shaklee Herb-Lax, so you should consult the label for specific amounts. Given the potential for serious side effects from high calcium intake, we recommend you do not exceed the standard daily intake without medical supervision. If you take any of the medications listed above, separate your calcium supplement by at least two hours or discuss with your doctor. For laxative use, consider non-mineral-based options and always follow label instructions [NIH ODS] [FDA data].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Shaklee |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 240.0 Tablet(s) |
| Market Status | On 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