Life Extension Branched Chain Amino Acids (Free Form)
Brand: Life Extension · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
Our assessment: The evidence shows that this product contains Calcium, a mineral essential for bone health. However, the specific benefits of a "Branched Chain Amino Acids" supplement are not supported by the data provided for this ingredient. We must be transparent: the data provided only covers Calcium, not the branched-chain amino acids implied by the product name. You should not expect any muscle-building or exercise recovery benefits from this product based on the information available.
How it works
Calcium works primarily through bone mineralization, meaning it helps deposit minerals into your bone structure to maintain density. It also supports neuromuscular relaxation, which is the process that allows your muscles to relax after contracting and helps your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for this product category. For the ingredient Calcium specifically, high intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels in your 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] [FDA data]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: Data not available to support the intended use of this product as a branched-chain amino acid supplement. Based on the Calcium content, you should not take this product without first consulting your doctor, especially if you take any of the medications listed above. Do not rely on this supplement for muscle recovery or athletic performance. If you are seeking a calcium supplement, choose a standard product with a clear dose and check with your healthcare provider about your specific needs [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 90.0 Vegetarian 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