NOW Molecularly Distilled Omega-3
Brand: NOW · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that the active ingredient in this product, calcium, is a well-studied mineral for bone health, but it comes with specific safety considerations you need to know. Our assessment: calcium supplements can be effective, but only if you are not already meeting your needs through diet, and only when taken with careful attention to dosing and timing [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your body. It works through bone mineralization, helping to support bone density and the deposition of minerals that keep your skeleton strong. It also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, supporting proper muscle relaxation and nerve signaling throughout your body [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Data not available for side effect report counts specific to calcium from the FDA data provided. The FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplements, but specific calcium counts are not listed. Safety data from the NIH shows that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Very high levels in the 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].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: Do not exceed the daily recommended intake without medical supervision. Be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin. If you take any of these, separate your calcium dose by at least two hours [NIH ODS]. Start by assessing your dietary intake before adding a supplement.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 100.0 Softgel(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