NOW Sports Branched Chain Amino Acids
Brand: NOW Sports · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for bone health, but the risks of supplementation are often underestimated. For most people, getting calcium from food is safer and more effective than taking high-dose supplements [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as the structural building block for your bones and teeth, supporting bone density and mineral deposition. It also plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Data not available for specific side effects from NOW Sports Branched Chain Amino Acids. However, for calcium specifically, FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplement categories. High calcium intakes are linked to risks including heart disease, prostate cancer, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent urination, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS] [FDA data].
Our recommendation
Our assessment: Do not take calcium supplements without first consulting your doctor. Focus on calcium-rich foods like dairy, leafy greens, and fortified products. If you do supplement, avoid exceeding the RDA and take calcium separately from medications such as bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin, as it can reduce their absorption [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW Sports |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 120.0 Capsule(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