Life Extension FlorAssist Heart Health Probiotic
Brand: Life Extension · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that while this product contains calcium, the specific benefits and risks for heart health are nuanced. Calcium is essential for bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation, but the data on its role in heart health is mixed [NIH ODS]. We cannot confirm that this probiotic formulation provides a direct heart health benefit beyond general calcium support, as specific studies for this product are not available.
How it works
Calcium acts as a master regulator for your body's core functions. It supports bone density by aiding mineral deposition and helps your muscles relax and nerves signal properly [NIH ODS]. For heart health, calcium is involved in the electrical signaling that controls your heartbeat, but high intakes may pose risks rather than benefits [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
The FDA has received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplements, though specific data for this product is not available. For calcium specifically, side effects from high intake include constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, and abnormal heart rhythms [NIH ODS]. You should also know that high calcium levels in the blood can lead to poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Calcium supplements may reduce the absorption of certain medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
We recommend you do not rely on this product for heart health without consulting your doctor. If you are taking any medications for osteoporosis, infections, or thyroid conditions, be aware that calcium can interfere with their absorption [NIH ODS]. Data not available on the specific probiotic strains in this product, so its unique contribution to heart health is unclear. Start by discussing your calcium intake from food and other supplements with your healthcare provider to avoid excessive levels that may increase heart disease risk [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 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