Nature's Bounty Iron 65 mg
Brand: Nature's Bounty · Form: TABLET [E0155]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for bone health, but the data on high-dose supplementation includes important safety considerations. For the general adult population, the primary role of calcium is supporting bone density and neuromuscular function [NIH ODS]. However, we do not have specific data on the product "Nature's Bounty Iron 65 mg" as the ingredient listed in the data is calcium, not iron. The safety profile for calcium is mixed, with some research suggesting that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. You should not assume this product is interchangeable with other calcium supplements.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your skeleton. It supports bone mineralization and density, which is essential for maintaining strong bones as you age [NIH ODS]. Calcium also acts as a neuromuscular regulator, helping your muscles relax and your nerves transmit signals properly [NIH ODS]. Without adequate calcium, your body will leach it from your bones to support these critical functions, which can weaken your skeleton over time.
Safety profile
FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements, though this number is not specific to calcium alone [FDA data]. The data on calcium itself notes significant risks at high levels: high calcium in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Data on specific side effect report counts for calcium is not available.
Our recommendation
You should not take this product as a source of calcium without verifying the label, as the data provided lists "Nature's Bounty Iron 65 mg" and the ingredient is calcium. If you are considering a calcium supplement, start with dietary sources first. If you take calcium supplements, be aware of the potential for medication interactions and take them separately from your other medications by at least two hours [NIH ODS]. Given the potential risks of high calcium intake, including heart disease and kidney issues, do not exceed the RDA without guidance from your healthcare provider [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Nature's Bounty |
|---|---|
| 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