The Vitamin Shoppe Cod Liver Oil
Brand: The Vitamin Shoppe · Form: LIQUID, SUPPLEMENT FORM [E0165] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that cod liver oil, which contains calcium, is a supplement you should approach with caution. While calcium is essential for bone health, the data reveals significant risks at high intakes [NIH ODS]. We do not recommend routine use of cod liver oil for calcium supplementation without a clear medical need.
How it works
Calcium acts as a master regulator for your body. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it helps your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS]. Without adequate calcium, your body may leach it from your bones, weakening your skeleton over time.
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports for this product category [FDA data]. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Excess calcium in the blood and urine 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]. Calcium also reduces the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Data not available for a specific dosage from the provided sources. Do not take cod liver oil for calcium without consulting your doctor. If you are on any medications listed above, separate calcium intake by at least 2 hours [NIH ODS]. We recommend getting your calcium needs met through food first, and only using supplements under professional guidance.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | The Vitamin Shoppe |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 16.0 fl. Oz. 480.0 mL |
| 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