Life Extension Bio-Collagen with Patented UC-II 40 mg
Brand: Life Extension · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product contains calcium, a mineral essential for bone health. However, our assessment is that high calcium intakes may carry significant risks, including a possible increase in heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. You should only use this supplement if you have a confirmed need for additional calcium.
How it works
Calcium works primarily through bone mineralization, helping to maintain bone density and support the deposition of minerals into your skeletal structure [NIH ODS]. It also plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, which supports proper muscle function and nerve signaling [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Data not available for specific side effects of this product. The FDA has received 592,059 total adverse event reports for all supplements, but specific report counts for this product are not provided [FDA data]. High calcium levels 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 reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation is to consult your healthcare provider before taking this supplement, especially if you take prescription medications. Do not exceed the recommended dose, as high calcium intakes pose serious health risks [NIH ODS]. For most people, obtaining calcium from food sources is safer and more effective than supplementation.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Small 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