Solgar Calcium Magnesium

Our assessment

The evidence shows that Solgar Calcium Magnesium is a straightforward mineral supplement designed to support your bone health and muscle function. The key ingredient, calcium, is well-documented for its role in bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS]. However, you should be aware of important safety considerations and potential medication interactions before adding this to your routine.

How it works

Think of calcium as a building block for your skeleton and a signal regulator for your nerves and muscles. It supports bone density by aiding mineral deposition in your bones, and it helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS]. This makes it a common choice for those looking to maintain strong bones and healthy muscle function as they age.

Safety profile

The FDA has received 592,059 total adverse event reports for products containing these types of ingredients [FDA data]. For calcium specifically, some research suggests that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. Very high levels of calcium 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]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].

Our recommendation

Start by reviewing your current diet to see how much calcium you already get from food. If you take any of the medications listed above, take this supplement at a different time of day to avoid absorption issues [NIH ODS]. Do not exceed the recommended dose on the label, and consult your doctor before starting, especially if you have a history of kidney stones, heart issues, or take prescription medications. Data not available on the specific form of calcium or magnesium in this product.

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