Calcium Magnesium & Zinc
Sundown
Calcium Magnesium & Zinc
4.7
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(25011 ratings)
Calcium 1000 mg
Zinc 25 mg
Magnesium 400 mg
Score 35.0
Lack of ingredient transparency and likely low-bioavailability forms make this budget option questionable.
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 35.0
Lack of ingredient transparency and likely low-bioavailability forms make this budget option questionable.
insights Analysis
The Sundown Calcium Magnesium & Zinc supplement, despite its high review count, is severely limited by the absence of a detailed ingredient breakdown. Without knowing the specific forms of calcium, magnesium, and zinc, it's highly probable that it contains less bioavailable and cheaper forms such as oxides or carbonates, which are common in budget supplements. This compromises its potential efficacy for various health goals. The lack of Vitamin D3 is another significant drawback, as D3 is crucial for optimal calcium absorption.
- Very low price per serving, making it highly affordable.
- High review count indicates widespread availability and popularity.
- No ingredient list provided, preventing assessment of mineral forms and dosages.
- Likely contains less bioavailable forms of minerals (e.g., oxides, carbonates) given the low price.
- Does not include Vitamin D3, which is essential for calcium absorption.
- Potential for digestive upset due to likely use of less absorbable mineral forms.
- The complete absence of an ingredient list is a major red flag for product quality and transparency.
$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 (Calcium Gluconate, Calcium Carbonate) | 1000 mg |
| Magnesium (Magnesium Oxide, Magnesium Gluconate) | 400 mg |
| Zinc (Zinc Oxide, Zinc Citrate) | 25 mg |
Categories
Zinc 35.0
The form of zinc is also undisclosed, but likely an oxide or sulfate, which are less bioavailable than chelated forms. While it contains zinc, its absorption might be suboptimal, limiting its efficacy compared to products with better forms.
Calcium 30.0
The complete lack of ingredient details means the form and dosage of calcium are unknown, likely leading to a less bioavailable form like calcium carbonate. This significantly reduces its effectiveness for calcium supplementation, particularly without Vitamin D3.
Magnesium 30.0
Without an ingredient list, the specific form of magnesium is unknown, but it's probably magnesium oxide, a form with poor absorption. This renders it less effective for addressing magnesium deficiencies or supporting its various bodily functions.
Goals
Heart Health 40.0
Magnesium is vital for heart muscle function and blood pressure regulation. While the product contains magnesium, its unknown form might not be optimally absorbed. The general presence of these minerals offers some foundational support but is not comprehensive for advanced heart health goals.
General Health 40.0
As essential minerals, Calcium, Magnesium, and Zinc contribute to overall bodily functions. However, the unknown and likely less absorbable forms suggest that the body might not be receiving these vital nutrients efficiently, thus providing only basic or suboptimal general health support.
Stress Relief 40.0
Magnesium is known for its calming effect on the nervous system and can aid in stress reduction. The efficacy for stress relief is directly tied to the absorption of magnesium, which is likely compromised by the use of less bioavailable forms.
Recommended Alternatives
95 Value 
Calcium Bone Maker Complex with MCH-Cal and VitaMK7
Doctor's Best
4.7
★★★★★
(6735 ratings)
Offers a comprehensive and highly bioavailable bone health formula, including MCH-Cal, magnesium malate, and K2, at a competitive price, providing much higher quality per dollar spent.
70 Value 
Calcium Magnesium Zinc
Nature's Bounty
4.8
★★★★★
(59702 ratings)
Delivers all three minerals plus D3 at an exceptionally low price point, making it an outstanding value for comprehensive daily mineral support despite not having the most premium forms.
88 Value 
Magnesium Caps 500 mg
Life Extension
4.8
★★★★★
(71620 ratings)
If specific emphasis is on magnesium quality, this offers highly bioavailable chelated forms at an excellent price per serving, providing superior value for magnesium needs.
90 Performance 
Magnesium & Calcium
NOW
4.8
★★★★★
(16707 ratings)
Features multiple highly bioavailable forms of Calcium (Aquamin TG, Citrate), Magnesium (Taurinate, Citrate, Glycinate), and Zinc (L-OptiZinc), plus essential Vitamin D3 for superior absorption and efficacy.
95 Performance
Calcium Bone Maker Complex with MCH-Cal and VitaMK7
Doctor's Best
4.7
★★★★★
(6735 ratings)
Contains premium MCH-Cal, highly absorbable DiMagnesium Malate, Vitamin K2, and Zinc Monomethionine, offering a far more advanced and bioavailable bone health complex.
80 Performance 
Zinc Magnesium & Vitamin B6
Sierra Fit
4.7
★★★★★
(922 ratings)
While it lacks calcium, it offers significantly more bioavailable forms of Zinc (Aspartate, L-Monomethionine) and Magnesium (Citrate), making it a superior choice for these two minerals.
70 Budget
Calcium Magnesium Zinc
Nature's Bounty
4.8
★★★★★
(59702 ratings)
Provides all three minerals plus D3 at an exceptionally low price per serving, offering superior value compared to the original product.
60 Budget 
Calcium Magnesium Zinc + D3
21st Century
4.7
★★★★★
(97627 ratings)
A highly economical choice that includes Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, and Vitamin D3, making essential mineral supplementation accessible on a budget.
55 Budget 
600 + D3 plus Minerals
21st Century
4.8
★★★★★
(1551 ratings)
An extremely cost-effective option that includes Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, and D3, along with other trace minerals, though in less bioavailable forms.
95 Value
Calcium Bone Maker Complex with MCH-Cal and VitaMK7
Doctor's Best
4.7
★★★★★
(6735 ratings)
Offers a comprehensive and highly bioavailable bone health formula, including MCH-Cal, magnesium malate, and K2, at a competitive price, providing much higher quality per dollar spent.
70 Value
Calcium Magnesium Zinc
Nature's Bounty
4.8
★★★★★
(59702 ratings)
Delivers all three minerals plus D3 at an exceptionally low price point, making it an outstanding value for comprehensive daily mineral support despite not having the most premium forms.
88 Value
Magnesium Caps 500 mg
Life Extension
4.8
★★★★★
(71620 ratings)
If specific emphasis is on magnesium quality, this offers highly bioavailable chelated forms at an excellent price per serving, providing superior value for magnesium needs.
90 Performance
Magnesium & Calcium
NOW
4.8
★★★★★
(16707 ratings)
Features multiple highly bioavailable forms of Calcium (Aquamin TG, Citrate), Magnesium (Taurinate, Citrate, Glycinate), and Zinc (L-OptiZinc), plus essential Vitamin D3 for superior absorption and efficacy.
95 Performance
Calcium Bone Maker Complex with MCH-Cal and VitaMK7
Doctor's Best
4.7
★★★★★
(6735 ratings)
Contains premium MCH-Cal, highly absorbable DiMagnesium Malate, Vitamin K2, and Zinc Monomethionine, offering a far more advanced and bioavailable bone health complex.
80 Performance
Zinc Magnesium & Vitamin B6
Sierra Fit
4.7
★★★★★
(922 ratings)
While it lacks calcium, it offers significantly more bioavailable forms of Zinc (Aspartate, L-Monomethionine) and Magnesium (Citrate), making it a superior choice for these two minerals.