Calcium Magnesium & Zinc
Sundown
Calcium Magnesium & Zinc
4.7
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(25011 ratings)
Calcium 1000 mg
Zinc 25 mg
Magnesium 400 mg
Score 30.0
This product offers a combination of Calcium, Magnesium, and Zinc at a very low price point. However, it relies heavily on less bioavailable forms, specifically Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Oxide, and Zinc Oxide. The exceptionally high dosages of magnesium (800mg) and zinc (50mg) also significantly exceed recommended upper intake levels for supplemental use, raising concerns about efficacy and potential adverse effects.
Quantity: 100 Tablet(s)Servings size: 3 Caplet(s) (33 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Joint Health
Bone Health
Heart Health
Muscle Gain
Fitness
leaderboard Score 30.0
This product offers a combination of Calcium, Magnesium, and Zinc at a very low price point. However, it relies heavily on less bioavailable forms, specifically Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Oxide, and Zinc Oxide. The exceptionally high dosages of magnesium (800mg) and zinc (50mg) also significantly exceed recommended upper intake levels for supplemental use, raising concerns about efficacy and potential adverse effects.
insights Analysis
Sundown's Calcium Magnesium & Zinc provides a cost-effective option for these essential minerals, as reflected in its large review count. While it contains significant amounts of each mineral, the choice of forms is a major drawback; Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Oxide, and Zinc Oxide are known for poorer absorption compared to chelated or citrate forms, as highlighted by nutritionists. The very high doses of magnesium (800mg) and zinc (50mg) are particularly concerning; 800mg of magnesium (largely from oxide) is prone to causing gastrointestinal distress, and 50mg of zinc significantly exceeds the tolerable upper intake level, potentially leading to copper deficiency over time, a common concern discussed in online health communities. Furthermore, the absence of Vitamin D greatly hinders the body's ability to effectively absorb and utilize the large amount of calcium provided, which is a critical co-factor for bone health.
- Very economical price per serving
- Provides three essential minerals
- High review count suggests widespread appeal due to price
- Uses predominantly poorly bioavailable mineral forms (Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Oxide, Zinc Oxide)
- Excessively high dosages of magnesium (800mg) and zinc (50mg) which exceed tolerable upper intake levels for supplements
- Lacks critical Vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption
- High risk of gastrointestinal side effects due to magnesium oxide
- Risk of gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea, nausea) due to high doses of Magnesium Oxide.
- Long-term daily intake of 50mg Zinc can interfere with copper absorption and lead to deficiency.
- Exceeds recommended upper intake levels for supplemental magnesium (350mg) and zinc (40mg).
$5.35($0.16 per serving)
 iHerb | $ 5.35 | |
 Amazon | $ 9.99 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
Zinc is essential for the normal development and function of immune cells, playing a critical role in immune responses. It helps regulate various immune processes, supporting the body's ability to defend against pathogens. Maintaining adequate zinc levels is crucial for a robust and responsive immune system.
Calcium is a fundamental mineral for bone health, playing a crucial role in building and maintaining bone density throughout life. Adequate calcium intake, combined with vitamin D, is essential for reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Dietary sources are generally preferred, but supplements can help bridge gaps.
Calcium is the primary mineral component of bones and teeth, providing their structural integrity and hardness. Adequate intake throughout life is essential for developing and maintaining bone density, which can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis. The body also uses calcium for vital metabolic functions, drawing it from bones if dietary intake is insufficient.
Studies suggest that zinc lozenges or syrup, when taken within 24 hours of cold symptoms appearing, may reduce the duration of the common cold. Its effectiveness can vary depending on the specific form and dosage. More research is needed to determine optimal use.
Some scientific evidence suggests that zinc supplementation, particularly in lozenge or syrup form, when started within 24 hours of cold symptom onset, may reduce the duration of the common cold. The effectiveness can vary among individuals and specific preparations. Zinc's role in immune function is thought to contribute to these potential benefits.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
It's generally advised to separate the intake of calcium and zinc, as calcium can interfere with zinc absorption. Magnesium can often be taken with either, though very high doses of calcium might affect magnesium absorption. Many experts suggest taking zinc and magnesium together, and calcium at a separate time.
Yes, high doses of calcium, particularly from supplements, can inhibit the absorption of zinc in the digestive tract. To optimize the uptake of both minerals, it is generally recommended to take calcium and zinc supplements at different times of the day. This separation helps minimize potential competition for absorption.
A common strategy involves taking zinc and magnesium together, often with a meal, and then taking calcium at a completely separate meal or later time of day. This method helps mitigate potential absorption interference, particularly between calcium and zinc. Always adhere to product-specific instructions and consider personal tolerance.
Highly bioavailable forms of magnesium, meaning they are well-absorbed by the body, include magnesium glycinate (or bisglycinate), citrate, and malate. Magnesium L-threonate is specifically noted for its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier. Magnesium oxide, while containing a high percentage of elemental magnesium, is generally considered to have lower bioavailability for systemic use.
Common forms include Calcium Carbonate, which is inexpensive and high in elemental calcium but requires stomach acid for absorption. Calcium Citrate is another widely available form, which is more easily absorbed and does not require stomach acid, making it suitable for those with lower stomach acid. Other forms like Calcium Gluconate and Calcium Lactate are also available, each differing in elemental calcium content and absorption properties.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Yes, these minerals can interact with certain types of antibiotics, particularly tetracyclines and fluoroquinolones, by binding to them in the digestive tract and reducing their absorption and effectiveness. It is generally advised to take these mineral supplements several hours before or after antibiotic doses. Always consult a healthcare professional regarding specific medication interactions.
Yes, diarrhea is a common side effect of magnesium supplements, especially with higher doses or certain forms like magnesium citrate. This laxative effect is sometimes utilized for constipation relief. Reducing the dose or changing the form of magnesium may help mitigate this effect.
While it's generally possible to take these minerals together, some potential interactions exist. For example, high doses of calcium or zinc can interfere with the absorption of the other, and zinc can affect copper absorption. Taking them with food can sometimes help, but for optimal absorption, some individuals might prefer separating them by a few hours or consulting a healthcare professional.
Generally, it is safe to take magnesium and calcium together, as they often work synergistically in the body. However, very high doses of one can potentially interfere with the absorption of the other. Some experts suggest taking them at different times, or in balanced ratios, to optimize absorption.
Common side effects of zinc can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and a metallic taste. Taking zinc with food may help reduce gastrointestinal upset. Prolonged high-dose zinc supplementation can also lead to copper deficiency.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
Calcium | 1000 mg |
Magnesium | 400 mg |
Zinc | 25 mg |
Categories
Zinc 40.0
A very high dosage (50mg) is provided, but a significant portion is from Zinc Oxide with moderate bioavailability. The overall dose exceeds safe upper limits for chronic daily supplementation, posing a considerable risk of copper deficiency.
Calcium 30.0
The quantity is high, but the primary form (Calcium Carbonate) has low bioavailability and requires Vitamin D for optimal absorption, which is notably absent here, leading to inefficient utilization by the body.
Magnesium 25.0
The dosage is excessively high (800mg), predominantly from poorly absorbed Magnesium Oxide, which is more commonly used as a laxative. This increases the likelihood of digestive issues rather than systemic health benefits.
Goals
Immunity 50.0
Zinc is a potent immune modulator, and 50mg is a very high dose for immune support, potentially offering short-term benefits. However, long-term use at this level carries significant risks of copper deficiency, making it unsustainable for general immune maintenance.
Skin Health 45.0
Zinc is important for skin repair and integrity; however, the high dosage of 50mg from less bioavailable forms may not be optimally utilized and risks side effects like copper imbalance, which could negatively impact skin health over time.
Hair Health 45.0
Similar to skin health, zinc plays a role in hair follicle health and growth, but the concerns regarding poor absorption and an excessively high dosage still apply, potentially limiting true benefits while introducing nutrient imbalance risks.
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