Douglas Laboratories Branched Chain Amino Acid
Brand: Douglas Laboratories · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product contains the mineral calcium, which is essential for bone health and nerve function. However, the data provided does not include any specific information about branched chain amino acids, which are the primary ingredients listed on the label. Based strictly on the data available, we cannot assess the benefits of the branched chain amino acids themselves. For calcium, the data confirms it supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your bones and a signal conductor for your nerves. It works by supporting bone density and mineral deposition, which keeps your skeleton strong. It also helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly after they fire [NIH ODS]. Without adequate calcium, your body may pull it from your bones, weakening them over time.
Safety profile
The FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements, but specific report counts for this product are not available. Safety data for calcium shows that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. 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]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Data on side effects specific to this product is not available.
Our recommendation
We cannot recommend this product for branched chain amino acid benefits because the data provided does not support any claims for that ingredient. For calcium, you should be cautious about taking additional supplements if you already consume calcium from food or other supplements, as high intakes carry significant risks [NIH ODS]. If you choose to take this product, take it separately from medications like thyroid hormone or antibiotics to avoid absorption issues [NIH ODS]. Consult your doctor before starting, especially if you have kidney concerns or a history of heart disease. Data on a specific dose for this product is not available.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Douglas Laboratories |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 120.0 Capsule(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