NOW Molecularly Distilled Omega-3
Brand: NOW · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is a critical mineral for your health, but it requires careful attention to dosing and timing. Our assessment is that while calcium is essential for strong bones and proper nerve function, taking too much can pose real risks. You should aim to meet your needs primarily through food and use supplements only to fill a gap, not as a default [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural builder for your skeleton. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, which is the process of keeping your bones strong and dense [NIH ODS]. It also acts as a neuromuscular messenger, supporting muscle relaxation and the proper signaling of your nerves [NIH ODS]. Without enough calcium, your body will leach it from your bones to keep your muscles and nerves working, which can weaken your skeleton over time.
Safety profile
Safety is a key concern here. FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement categories, and calcium has specific risks you need to know. Some research suggests that high calcium 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]. You should also be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Data not available for specific side effect report counts for calcium alone.
Our recommendation
Start by assessing your dietary calcium intake from dairy, leafy greens, and fortified foods. If you do use a supplement, take it with food and avoid taking more than 500 mg at one time for better absorption [NIH ODS]. Separate your calcium dose from any medications listed in the safety profile by at least two hours to avoid interactions [NIH ODS]. Do not exceed the recommended daily allowance without a healthcare provider's guidance, as the risks of high intake are serious [NIH ODS].
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