NOW Coral Calcium 1000 mg

Our assessment

The evidence shows that calcium is essential for bone health, but you need to be cautious with how you take it. Our assessment: NOW Coral Calcium 1000 mg provides a significant dose of calcium, but you must consider the potential risks and interactions before starting it. The data confirms that calcium supports bone mineralization and neuromuscular relaxation [NIH ODS].

How it works

Think of calcium as a structural building block for your bones and a signal messenger for your nerves. It works through bone mineralization to support bone density and mineral deposition, and it aids neuromuscular relaxation to support muscle relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS].

Safety profile

FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports for this product category. Side effects from high calcium intakes include constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, and abnormal heart rhythms [FDA data]. High levels of calcium in the blood and urine can also cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS]. Some research also suggests that high calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS].

Our recommendation

Data not available on a specific recommended dose for this product. You should be aware that calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Take calcium supplements at least two hours apart from these medications. Start with a lower dose and monitor for side effects. Consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if you have kidney issues or a history of heart disease [NIH ODS].

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