NOW Red Omega
Brand: NOW · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product provides calcium, a mineral essential for bone health. Our assessment: for most adults, focusing on dietary calcium from food sources is preferable, but a supplement can help you meet your needs if your diet falls short. The key is to avoid exceeding the tolerable upper intake level, as high intakes carry significant risks [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as the building block for your skeleton. It supports bone density through a process called bone mineralization, and it also plays a critical role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles and nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Data not available for the specific number of adverse event reports for this product. However, the FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements. For calcium specifically, high intakes can cause constipation, nausea, and weight loss. More serious risks include abnormal heart rhythms, poor kidney function, and a high risk of death from heart disease. Some research also suggests high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS] [FDA data].
Our recommendation
Start by assessing your daily calcium intake from food. If you need a supplement, choose one with no more than 500 mg of elemental calcium per dose for better absorption. Be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of medications like thyroid hormone and certain antibiotics, so take it at a different time of day [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 180.0 Softgel(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