NOW Calcium Citrate Caps
Brand: NOW · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
Our assessment: Calcium is a critical mineral for bone health, and NOW Calcium Citrate Caps provide a well-absorbed form. The data confirms that calcium supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. However, you need to be mindful of total intake, as the evidence shows that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your skeleton. It works by supporting bone density and mineral deposition, and it also plays a role in muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. This supplement provides calcium in the citrate form, which is often easier for your body to absorb, especially if you take it with or without food.
Safety profile
FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for products in this category. Specific side effects from high calcium levels include constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, and abnormal heart rhythms [FDA data] [NIH ODS]. A key risk is that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: Take this supplement as directed on the label, and do not exceed the recommended daily intake without consulting your doctor. To avoid interactions, separate your calcium dose by at least two hours from any medications listed above [NIH ODS]. If you have a history of kidney stones, heart disease, or prostate cancer, discuss calcium supplementation with your healthcare provider first [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 120.0 Veg 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