Country Life Methyl B12 1000 mcg Cherry Flavor
Brand: Country Life · Form: LOZENGE [E0174]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that the primary active ingredient in this product, calcium, is critical for bone health, but the data does not support the methylcobalamin (B12) dosage listed on the label. We must focus on the calcium content as the key component with available data. For most adults, calcium is best obtained through diet, and supplementation should be approached with caution due to potential risks.
How it works
Think of calcium as a structural building block for your skeleton. It supports bone density and mineral deposition, and it also plays a role in neuromuscular relaxation, helping your muscles relax and nerves signal properly [NIH ODS].
Safety profile
FDA received 592059 total adverse event reports for all supplements. For calcium specifically, high intakes might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. High blood and urine levels of calcium 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]. Data on the specific side effects of methyl B12 1000 mcg is not available.
Our recommendation
Do not take this product without first consulting your doctor. Given the risks associated with high calcium intake and the lack of specific data for the B12 component, you should have your blood levels of both calcium and vitamin B12 tested before starting. For calcium, strive to meet your needs from food sources first. For B12, if a deficiency is confirmed, your doctor can recommend an appropriate dose and form [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Country Life |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 60.0 Lozenge(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