NOW Calcium Citrate
Brand: NOW · Form: TABLET [E0155]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for your bone health and nerve function, but it requires careful dosing to avoid risks. NOW Calcium Citrate provides a well-absorbed form of this essential nutrient. However, you must be aware of the safety boundaries: some research suggests that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Data not available on specific report counts for this product alone.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your skeleton and a signal conductor for your nerves. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, which keeps your frame strong [NIH ODS]. At the same time, it supports muscle relaxation and nerve signaling, so your body can move and communicate effectively [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement categories. For calcium specifically, 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]. 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 total daily calcium intake from food and supplements. Do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level unless directed by your doctor. Take calcium citrate with food for best absorption, and separate it from any thyroid or antibiotic medications by at least two hours [NIH ODS]. Monitor for symptoms like constipation or nausea, and consult your healthcare provider before use if you have kidney issues or a history of heart disease [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 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