NOW Magnesium Citrate Softgels
Brand: NOW · Form: SOFTGEL CAPSULE [E0161] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that calcium is an essential mineral for bone health, but supplementation requires careful consideration. For NOW Magnesium Citrate Softgels, the primary ingredient is magnesium, not calcium. Based on the data provided, if you are taking this product for calcium, data is not available for this specific product’s calcium content. For general calcium supplementation, the NIH ODS confirms that it 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 conductor for your nerves and muscles. It works through bone mineralization to maintain bone density and supports muscle relaxation and proper nerve signaling [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for all supplements, though specific reports for this product are not available. High calcium intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High levels of calcium 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]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
For this specific product, NOW Magnesium Citrate Softgels, the data does not support it as a source of calcium. If you are seeking calcium supplementation, we recommend reviewing your dietary intake first. Always speak with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially if you take medications that interact with calcium [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | NOW |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 180.0 Softgel(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