Life Extension Melatonin 3 mg 6 Hour Timed Release
Brand: Life Extension · Form: TABLET [E0155]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for bone health, but the supplement form requires careful consideration. For most adults, the data confirms that getting calcium from food is preferred over supplements, though supplementation can be necessary if your diet is insufficient [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your skeleton. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, and it also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. This means it helps your bones stay strong and your muscles relax properly after contracting.
Safety profile
Data not available on specific side effect counts for calcium alone from the provided FDA data. However, the total FDA adverse event reports for all supplements is 592059. Some research suggests that high calcium 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].
Our recommendation
Start by assessing your dietary calcium intake from dairy, leafy greens, and fortified foods. If you need a supplement, take it with food and in divided doses of no more than 500 mg at a time for best absorption [NIH ODS]. Always separate calcium supplements from your thyroid medication or antibiotics by at least 2 hours [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Vegetarian Tablet(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