GNC Gentlesorb Iron
Brand: GNC · Form: CAPSULE [E0159] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that GNC Gentlesorb Iron, which contains calcium as an ingredient, can be a useful supplement, but you need to be aware of important safety limits. Our assessment: while calcium is essential for bone health, the data reveals significant risks at high intakes that you must consider before starting this product [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a dual-purpose regulator — it supports bone mineralization by depositing minerals into your skeleton, and it also helps your muscles relax and your nerves send signals properly [NIH ODS]. This mechanism is why calcium is critical for daily function, but it also means that taking too much can disrupt these same systems.
Safety profile
FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports across all supplement categories, though specific reports for this product are not available. The data shows that high calcium intakes might increase your risk of heart disease and prostate cancer [NIH ODS]. High levels 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
Start with a low dose and do not exceed the tolerable upper intake level of 2,500 mg per day from all sources combined. Data not available for the exact iron content in GNC Gentlesorb Iron, so you should check the label for specific amounts. Take calcium supplements separately from your thyroid medication or antibiotics by at least 2 hours. For personalized guidance, consult your healthcare provider to review your total calcium intake from food and supplements [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | GNC |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 90.0 Vegetarian 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