Life Extension Optimized Folate
Brand: Life Extension · Form: TABLET [E0155] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a fundamental mineral for your health, but the data also highlights important safety considerations. For the specific product Life Extension Optimized Folate, the primary active ingredient is calcium, not folate, based on the data provided. This supplement provides calcium, which supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. However, you should be aware that high intakes carry risks, and the data does not support using this product for folate supplementation.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your bones and a signaling molecule for your muscles and nerves. It supports bone density through mineral deposition and helps your muscles relax and your nerves transmit signals properly [NIH ODS]. Without adequate calcium, your body will pull it from your bones to maintain critical functions, which can weaken your skeleton over time.
Safety profile
FDA received a total of 592059 adverse event reports across all products, but specific report counts for this exact supplement are not available. The data notes that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Side effects from very high levels include constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, 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
Our assessment: Before taking this supplement, you should consider your total calcium intake from food and other supplements. If your diet already includes dairy, fortified foods, or leafy greens, you may not need additional calcium. You should also check with your doctor if you take any of the medications listed above, as calcium can interfere with their absorption [NIH ODS]. For folate-specific needs, data not available for this product — you should look for a supplement that explicitly lists folate or folic acid as its main ingredient.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Life Extension |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 Vegetarian Tablet(s) |
| 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