CVS Health Calcium, Magnesium & Zinc Tablets, 100 ct
Analysis updated August 2026 · How Scout scores
At a glance
Summary
This supplement contains beneficial minerals like calcium, magnesium, and zinc, which are essential for bone health and immune function. However, the presence of controversial additives such as titanium dioxide, talc, and sodium lauryl sulfate raises concerns about potential health risks. These additives, while common in supplements, are under scrutiny for safety, impacting the overall formulation quality.
Key ingredients 13
Magnesium OxideGood
Magnesium oxide is a common form of magnesium used in supplements to support muscle and nerve function. It is less bioavailable than other forms but is effective for increasing magnesium levels when taken in adequate amounts. It is often used for its laxative properties as well.
Risks
High doses can cause gastrointestinal discomfort, including diarrhea.
Benefits
Supports muscle and nerve function and helps maintain normal blood pressure.
Zinc Sulfate MonohydrateGood
Zinc sulfate monohydrate is a form of zinc that supports immune function and wound healing. It is a highly bioavailable form of zinc, making it effective for supplementation. Zinc is crucial for numerous enzymatic reactions in the body.
Risks
Excessive zinc intake can interfere with copper absorption and cause gastrointestinal issues.
Benefits
Essential for immune function and plays a role in DNA synthesis and cell division.
Calcium CarbonateNeutral
Standard formulation ingredient — neither beneficial nor harmful at typical use.
Risks
Excessive intake can lead to hypercalcemia, which may cause kidney stones and impaired absorption of other minerals.
Benefits
Provides a high concentration of calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Croscarmellose SodiumNeutral
Croscarmellose sodium is a disintegrant used in tablets to help them dissolve quickly. It is considered safe and effective for its intended use in pharmaceuticals. It does not contribute any nutritional value.
Benefits
Facilitates the rapid disintegration of tablets for better absorption.
HypromelloseNeutral
Hypromellose is a cellulose derivative used as a binder and coating agent in tablets. It is inert and generally recognized as safe for consumption. It does not provide any nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Used to control the release of active ingredients in tablets.
AcaciaNeutral
Acacia is a natural gum used as a stabilizer and thickener in supplements. It is considered safe and is often used in food products. It does not provide significant nutritional benefits.
Benefits
Acts as a natural stabilizer and thickener.
Stearic AcidNeutral
Stearic acid is a fatty acid used as a lubricant in tablet manufacturing. It is generally recognized as safe and does not have significant nutritional value. It is commonly found in both animal and plant fats.
Benefits
Used to improve the manufacturing process of tablets.
Soy PolysaccharideNeutral
Soy polysaccharide is a dietary fiber derived from soybeans used as a filler and stabilizer. It is considered safe and provides some fiber content. It does not have the same concerns as soy protein isolates.
Benefits
Provides dietary fiber and helps stabilize the product.
TriacetinNeutral
Triacetin is used as a plasticizer and solvent in pharmaceuticals and supplements. It is generally recognized as safe and does not contribute any nutritional value. It helps improve the texture and stability of products.
Benefits
Improves the texture and stability of supplements.
MaltodextrinBad
Processed additive flagged under Scout's ingredient doctrine.
Risks
May cause spikes in blood sugar levels if consumed in large amounts.
Benefits
Provides a quick source of energy and is used to improve the texture of supplements.
TalcBad
Talc is used as an anti-caking agent in supplements. There are concerns about its safety due to potential contamination with asbestos, although food-grade talc is considered safe. Its use is controversial and under scrutiny.
Risks
Potential contamination with asbestos and ongoing safety evaluations.
Titanium DioxideVery Bad
Titanium dioxide is used as a whitening agent in supplements and foods. It has been controversial due to potential health concerns when inhaled, though it is considered safe for ingestion in small amounts. Its use in food products is being re-evaluated by some health authorities.
Risks
Potential concerns about its safety when inhaled and ongoing evaluations of its safety in food.
Sodium Lauryl SulfateVery Bad
Sodium lauryl sulfate is a surfactant used to aid in the dissolution of tablets. It is known to cause irritation in some individuals and is generally avoided in food products. Its use in supplements is limited and often scrutinized.
Risks
May cause irritation and is generally avoided in food products.
Processing
Processed Foods
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