The Vitamin Shoppe Buffered C-Complex
Brand: The Vitamin Shoppe · Form: CAPSULE [E0159]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that The Vitamin Shoppe Buffered C-Complex, containing calcium, can be a helpful supplement for supporting bone health, but you need to be aware of significant safety considerations. Our assessment is that you should only use this product if you have a confirmed need for supplemental calcium, as the risks may outweigh benefits for many people.
How it works
The calcium in this supplement works primarily through bone mineralization, helping to support bone density and mineral deposition. It also aids in neuromuscular relaxation, supporting proper muscle relaxation and nerve signaling in your body [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
Safety data is critical here. The FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement categories. For calcium specifically, some research suggests that high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. 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]. Additionally, calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Our recommendation: Do not start this supplement without first consulting your doctor. Have your calcium levels and bone density tested to see if you truly need supplementation. If you take any prescription medications, especially antibiotics or thyroid medication, discuss timing to avoid absorption issues [NIH ODS]. Data not available on the specific dose of calcium in this product.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | The Vitamin Shoppe |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 300.0 Capsule(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