Source Naturals Calcium Ascorbate
Brand: Source Naturals · Form: POWDER [E0162] On Market
Our assessment
The evidence shows that Source Naturals Calcium Ascorbate provides calcium, a mineral essential for bone health. However, we must be clear about the specific form: calcium ascorbate is a buffered form of vitamin C combined with calcium, and the data provided focuses on calcium as a mineral. Our assessment is that this product can help you meet your calcium needs, but you should be aware of the potential risks and interactions associated with calcium supplements in general [NIH ODS].
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block and a cellular messenger. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, which is crucial for strong bones. It also plays a key role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and your nerves signal properly after contraction [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592,059 total adverse event reports across all supplement categories. For calcium specifically, the data indicates that high 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] [FDA data].
Our recommendation
We recommend you speak with your healthcare provider before starting this supplement. Calcium can reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS]. Because of the potential for serious side effects with high levels, do not exceed the recommended dose on the label without medical supervision. Data not available on the specific dose of calcium per serving from this product's label.
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Source Naturals |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 8.0 Oz(s) 226.8 Gram(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