NOW Coral Calcium Plus
Brand: NOW · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium, the primary ingredient in NOW Coral Calcium Plus, plays a well-documented role in bone health, but you should be aware of specific risks and limitations. While calcium supports bone density and nerve signaling, high intakes may increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports related to this product category, which is a significant number to consider [FDA data].
How it works
Think of calcium as a master builder for your bones. It supports bone mineralization and density, helping your skeleton stay strong as you age [NIH ODS]. Additionally, calcium plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, meaning it helps your muscles relax properly and supports nerve signaling throughout your body [NIH ODS]. These functions are essential for everyday movement and overall cellular communication.
Safety profile
High levels of calcium in the blood and urine can cause serious side effects, including 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]. Data not available on the specific report count for this product alone. You should also know that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Start by assessing your total calcium intake from food and other supplements before adding this product. If you take it, do not exceed the recommended dose and separate it from other medications by at least two hours to avoid absorption issues [NIH ODS]. We recommend consulting your healthcare provider first, especially if you have a history of kidney stones, heart disease, or take any of the medications listed above [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 250.0 Veg Capsule(s) |
| Market Status | On 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