VitaHealth Organic Seaweed Calcium 1000 Capsule

VitaHealth Organic Seaweed Calcium 1000 Capsule is a plant-based calcium supplement from VitaHealth, a Malaysian supplement brand. Its calcium comes from Lithothamnion calcareum, a red marine algae that absorbs minerals from seawater and stores them in its calcified fronds. Each capsule contains approximately 995mg of this algae powder, which provides about 318mg of calcium and 22mg of magnesium per capsule, together with smaller amounts of other naturally occurring trace minerals. Please check the product label for the exact figures on the pack you receive.

It is important to note that the “1000” in the product name refers to the amount of seaweed powder, not to 1,000mg of calcium per capsule. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and is needed for the normal structure of bones and teeth, as well as for normal muscle function, nerve signalling and blood clotting. Magnesium also contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and to normal muscle function. Adults generally need around 1,000mg to 1,200mg of calcium a day from food and supplements combined, so it is useful to know how much each capsule actually provides.

Seaweed calcium is mainly present as calcium carbonate, which is best absorbed when taken with food. The product may suit adults whose dietary calcium intake is low, such as people who eat few dairy products, and who prefer a calcium source derived from algae rather than from rock or shell. It is a dietary supplement that complements, but does not replace, a balanced diet, regular weight-bearing exercise and any treatment recommended by a doctor.

Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water, preferably with a meal to support calcium absorption. If you take more than one capsule a day, spread them across different meals, as the body absorbs calcium best in amounts of 500mg or less at a time. Follow the directions on the product label or the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.

Adults: Take the number of capsules stated on the product label, or as recommended by your doctor or pharmacist. Each capsule provides approximately 318mg of calcium, so count this towards your total daily calcium intake from food and other supplements.

Do not exceed the recommended daily intake. Total calcium intake from food and supplements should not exceed 2,500mg a day for adults aged 19–50, or 2,000mg a day for adults aged 51 and above, unless advised by a doctor.

Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed after use and keep out of reach of children. Please also follow any storage instructions printed on the product label.

• Common: Constipation, wind or bloating, which may be reduced by taking the capsule with meals and drinking enough water.
• Common: Mild stomach discomfort or nausea.
• Excessive intake: Taking more calcium than recommended may lead to high blood calcium levels, with symptoms such as thirst, frequent urination, nausea, tiredness or confusion.
• Serious (rare): Allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling of the face or difficulty breathing — stop use and seek urgent medical attention.

• Known allergy or hypersensitivity to seaweed, algae or any other ingredient in the product.
• High blood calcium levels (hypercalcaemia) or conditions that cause excess calcium in the blood or urine, unless advised by a doctor.
• A history of calcium-containing kidney stones or severe kidney disease, unless the supplement is approved by your doctor.

• Thyroid medicine (levothyroxine): calcium can reduce its absorption — take levothyroxine at least 4 hours apart from this supplement.
• Certain antibiotics (tetracyclines such as doxycycline, and quinolones such as ciprofloxacin): calcium can bind to these medicines — take the antibiotic at least 2 hours before or several hours after calcium, as advised by your pharmacist.
• Bisphosphonates (e.g. alendronate): take these on an empty stomach and separate them from calcium supplements as directed on their label.
• Thiazide diuretics, lithium and dolutegravir: may interact with calcium supplements — consult your doctor or pharmacist about timing and safety.
• Iron and zinc supplements: calcium may reduce their absorption if taken at the same time — space them apart.
• Other calcium or magnesium supplements and antacids: check labels to avoid excessive total intake.

• Remember that each capsule provides about 318mg of calcium, not 1,000mg — add up your total intake from food and supplements.
• Take the capsule with a meal, as calcium carbonate from seaweed is absorbed best with food.
• Split larger daily amounts across meals instead of taking them all at once.
• Keep thyroid medicine, iron supplements and certain antibiotics separate from your calcium dose.
• Make sure you also get enough vitamin D from sunlight, food or supplements, as it helps the body absorb calcium.
• Drink plenty of water and include fibre in your diet to help prevent constipation.

Precautions: Count the calcium from this product towards your total daily calcium intake, including dairy, fortified foods, antacids and other supplements, to avoid exceeding safe limits. Use with caution if you have kidney disease, a history of kidney stones, high blood calcium, or a parathyroid disorder. Pregnant or breastfeeding women can generally use calcium supplements within recommended limits, but should confirm with their doctor. Seaweed-derived products can contain other minerals, so people on mineral-restricted diets should seek advice first.

When to See a Doctor or Pharmacist: Speak to a doctor or pharmacist before use if you take thyroid medicine, antibiotics, bisphosphonates, diuretics or other regular medicines, or if you have been diagnosed with a bone condition, as calcium supplements should complement your prescribed treatment. See a doctor if you develop persistent constipation, excessive thirst, frequent urination, nausea or confusion, or pain in the side or back that could suggest a kidney stone.