ConsumerLab.com uses JavaScript to provide the best possible experience for our content, but your browser has it disabled. Learn how to enable it here.

Search term may appear only in full report available to members. Join now for full access.

Product Review

Nitric Oxide Supplements (Bodybuilding and Athletic Performance) Review Article

Do Nitric Oxide Supplements Really Work? Find Out If Nitric Oxide Supplements Really Build Muscle or Improve Performance.

Nitric Oxide Supplements Review

CL Answer

Is it better to buy supplements which are combination formulas or single-ingredient?

Find out if combination formulas or single-ingredient individual supplements are better and why.

Woman Looking at Supplement Boxes

CL Answer

My HDL (good) cholesterol level is low. Should I take niacin to raise my HDLs?

Learn more about niacin and find out if it can raise HDL ("good") cholesterol levels.

Vitamin B3 Blister Packs

CL Answer

If I buy NAC as a loose powder in a large bag, as opposed to in tablet or capsule form, will it spoil? I've heard it can spoil or degrade into a harmful by-product.

Learn more about the different forms of N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC), including whether or not powder will spoil faster than tablets.

NAC Review 2026

CL Answer

Is it possible to get too much vitamin D?

Too much vitamin D can lead to adverse effects, including hypercalcemia (excess calcium in the blood).

Too Much Vitamin D? -- bottle of vitamin D and vitamin D tablets in the shape of the letter D

CL Answer

What is CELLFOOD and is it a healthy supplement?

Learn more about CELLFOOD (NuScience Corporation), including if the claims to improve athletic performance, fibromyalgia, weight loss, and cancer are true.

What is CELLFOOD

CL Answer

I'm trying to pick a good multivitamin for my children and husband, and for myself. Any suggestions based on your research?

Find out how to pick the best multivitamin for you and your family, based on diet, price, and effectiveness.

Multivitamins Review 2026

CL Answer

What is Nitric Oxide?

Nitric Oxide Supplements Review

CL Answer

After taking a curcumin supplement, I started getting chronic diarrhea which went away when I stopped taking it. Can curcumin supplements cause diarrhea?

Learn more about the side effects of curcumin supplements, including diarrhea and other gastrointestinal discomfort.

Turmeric and Diarrhea

CL Answer

Rhodiola and ashwagandha are both promoted to help with stress and anxiety. Is it safe to take them at the same time?

Find out if it is safe to take ashwagandha and rhodiola together. Both herbs are promoted to help with stress and anxiety, but may also lower blood pressure and have other side effects. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Man in Light Blue Comparing Supplement Bottles

News Release

July 26, 2023

Best Collagen Supplements for Skin and Joints, According to ConsumerLab Tests

White Plains, New York, July 26, 2023 —  Collagen supplementation may modestly reduce wrinkles and the appearance of cellulite, and moderately decrease joint and tendon pain and improve flexibility in people with osteoarthritis.

CL Answer

Is it safe to consume fish oil as a long-term food supplement?

Learn more about fish oil supplement safety including long-term use, side effects, and more.

Fish Oil

CL Answer

I have type 2 diabetes. Should I be concerned about ingredients like maltodextrin and maltitol that are found in some protein bars and drinks?

Learn more about maltitol and maltodextrin and their effects on blood glucose levels for people with type 2 diabetes.

Protein Bars and Powder

CL Answer

Is it safe to take CoQ10 while taking blood thinners like warfarin or Plavix (clopidogrel)?

Learn more about the possible counteractive effects of CoQ10 and blood thinners, including safety.

CoQ10

CL Answer

Do any supplements, foods or lifestyle modifications help with brain function, like memory and cognition?

Find out which supplements help improve memory, brain function and cognition, including fish oil, some B vitamins, cocoa, and curcumin. ConsumerLab's answer explains the evidence for supplements promoted to help with brain function and cognition.

Supplements for Memory -- doctor holding a model of a brain and fish oil capsule

CL Answer

Which vitamins and supplements should be stopped before getting blood work, laboratory tests, or medical imaging?

Find out which vitamins and supplements can interfere with blood, urine or stool tests, and imaginging tests, like bone scans and MRIs. Learn how B vitamins such as biotin, niacin and riboflavin, as well as calcium supplements, St. John’s wort, vitamin C, and others supplements can affect test results, as well as common foods that may interfere with tests.

Vitamin & Supplements to Stop Before Blood Tests

Clinical Update

5/18/2017

What Iron Supplements Can and Cannot Do

Iron supplements can reduce fatigue in younger women and even improve learning in adolescent girls. If you give blood, taking iron reduces your time to recover by more than one month. However, a recent study found little benefit in giving iron to heart failure patients low in iron. Researchers have an idea why. For details about the uses of iron, see the "What It Does" section of the Iron Supplements Review, which includes our tests and comparisons of popular iron supplements.

Clinical Update

12/16/2024

Turmeric for Whitening Teeth?

Applying turmeric and coconut oil to teeth has been promoted on social media for whitening stained teeth, but is this a good idea? Find out in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Turmeric Supplements Review.

Also see our article about toothpaste and other dental products, which includes our Top Picks for whitening toothpastes and whitening strips.

Clinical Update

8/04/2023

Soft vs. Firm Toothbrushes

Can soft toothbrushes be more abrasive than medium or firm toothbrushes? Find out. Also learn if using an ultra-soft toothbrush is a good idea.

CL Answer

How do I choose the best probiotic supplement? There are so many different strains of bacteria!

Information on how to choose the best probiotic supplement based on safety and our lab test on probiotic bacteria content.

Probiotic Supplements and Bottles Against Blue Background

CL Answer

When is the best time of day to take a multivitamin?

Find out the best time of day to take your multivitamin for best absorption of vitamins and minerals, whether you should take your multi with food, which vitamins and minerals may inhibit the absorption of other vitamins and minerals, or medications. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

CL Answer

What are the health benefits of luteolin, and is it safe?

Find out if luteolin, a compound found in many fruits and vegetables, is beneficial for cancer, heart health, skin aging, age-related cognitive decline, and other conditions, and learn if it's safe.

Luteolin containing vegetables including celery peppers lettuce and spinach

CL Answer

Do collagen supplements impact cholesterol levels or reduce risk factors for atherosclerosis?

Collagen has been studied for its effects on cholesterol levels and atherosclerosis risk factors, but its effects are still not clear.

Collagen powder and collagen pills

CL Answer

I enjoy oat milk in my coffee, but how healthy is it for me?

Is oat milk healthy? Information about oat milk contents, how much sugar and calcium is in oat milk, and if it is a healthy alternative to cow milk.

Is oatmeal milk healthy? -- glass of oatmeal milk and oats in a spoon

CL Answer

Best Supplements to Prevent Age-Related Muscle Loss

Discover the top supplements to prevent age-related muscle loss after 60. Learn how protein, fish oil, vitamin D, and more can help maintain muscle strength and combat sarcopenia.

Protein Review 2026

CL Answer

Do any supplements help with gum disease or periodontitis?

Supplements for healthy gums may help with gum disease or periodontitis. Learn more about omega fatty acids, lycopene, and probiotics.

Smiling Woman Taking White Supplement with Glass of Water

CL Answer

Can baking soda really help treat rheumatoid arthritis?

Find out if there is evidence showing that baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) can help for rheumatoid arthritis. Plus, get information about safety and drug interactions with baking soda. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

box-of-baking-soda

CL Answer

What is the ingredient zeolite I see in Natural Cellular Defense and other detox supplements? Does it help in any way?

Learn what zeolite is and why it is found in many detox supplements like Waiora's Natural Cellular Defense, Get Healthy Again Zeolite, and Ultra Liquid Zeolite.

Natural Cellular Defense

CL Answer

Does Nello SuperCalm Drink Mix Work and Is It Worth Its Price?

Nello SuperCalm Drink Mix is promoted for sleep, stress, anxiety and cognition, but does it work and is it worth its price? Find out.

Nello SuperCalm Bag of Pouches and Pouch

Clinical Update

3/22/2022

Fish Oil: Cognitive Benefit in Healthy People?

Does fish oil supplementation improve cognition in healthy people? See what a recent study showed in the Memory Enhancement in Healthy Individuals section of our Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review.

Also see our answer to the question: Do any supplements or foods help with brain function, like memory and cognition?

Clinical Update

9/30/2012

Does Ginkgo Improve Memory?

The evidence for Ginkgo biloba in preventing and treating Alzheimer's disease and other dementias has become fairly negative. But is there still hope for its use in improving memory in healthy individuals? The answer seems to be in, according to a new analysis of 10 placebo-controlled trials in healthy people. Get the answer in the update to the Ginkgo Supplements Review.

Clinical Update

9/17/2019

Omega-3s for Cognition?

Several studies have attempted to boost cognition and memory in healthy people using omega-3 supplements from fish or krill oil. Find out if they succeeded, including a recent study among adolescents, in the Memory Enhancement in Healthy Individuals section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among products.

Clinical Update

11/07/2024

Do Healthy People Need Probiotics?

While healthy people typically don’t need to take a probiotic, probiotics may help prevent gastrointestinal symptoms, such as diarrhea, from occurring in certain situations. Probiotics may also modestly help treat a wide range of existing conditions. See the What They Do section of our Probiotics Supplements Review to learn more. Also see our Top Picks among probiotics.

Clinical Update

6/16/2025

Olive Oil: Too Much of a Good Thing?

Replacing less healthy fats in the diet with olive oil may be beneficial for heart health and maintaining a healthy weight, but recent studies suggest less benefit for cholesterol levels with too much olive oil, which may also stimulate fat cell production. Learn more in our Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review, including exactly how much olive oil may be beneficial. Also see our Top Picks for extra virgin olive oil.

Clinical Update

4/07/2023

Coffee & Heart Arrythmias

Although moderate coffee consumption is generally safe for healthy individuals, people with heart arrhythmias need to be more careful, as explained in our article about coffee and heart health.

Clinical Update

7/07/2013

Fish Oil for Brain Function

Healthy people, ages 50 to 75, given a specific fish oil supplement for 6 months experienced significant gains in their performance on visual tasks, reading, and verbal fluency in a recent placebo-controlled study. Brain scans also showed significant gains in the structure and volume of tissue in several areas of the brain. For details about the type and dose of fish oil taken, as well as test results and comparisons for 74 fish and other marine oil supplements, see the updated Fish/Marine Oil (Omega-3) Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

10/28/2012

Fish Oil Helps Memory

A small study of healthy young women and men found that those with the highest levels of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA in their red blood cells scored better on a memory test than those with lower levels. After six months of supplementation with a certain fish oil supplement, scores improved -- particularly among those whose DHA levels had been lowest. See the Fish Oil (Omega-3) Supplements Review for details about this study, the particular supplement used, what fish oil can and cannot do, and our quality ratings of products. More >>

Clinical Update

4/22/2012

Heart Benefits of Fish Oil Supplements in Doubt

A review of the latest studies finds no conclusive evidence that fish oil supplements help people hoping to prevent another heart attack or stroke. It also remains unclear if fish oil provides cardiovascular benefits for healthy individuals. Find out what people concerned about heart disease should do, the other potential benefits of fish oil supplements, and our tests of supplements on the market in the updated Fish Oil Supplements ReviewMore >>

Clinical Update

10/23/2011

Vitamin E Risk

A study of healthy men who had taken a high-dose vitamin E supplement for several years showed a 17% increase in the risk of prostate cancer compared to men who took a placebo. See the Vitamin E Supplements Review for details, extensive information about vitamin E, and our quality ratings of vitamin E supplements.  More >>

Clinical Update

6/13/2014

Vitamin D and Rheumatoid Arthritis

A recent study shows that people with rheumatoid arthritis tend to have significantly lower levels of vitamin D in their blood than healthy individuals of the same age, gender and body weight. More details, including the vitamin D levels in these groups, is found in the update to the Vitamin D Supplements Review >>   

Clinical Update

7/05/2014

Curcumin Reduces Soreness After Exercise

Taking curcumin before and after intense exercise significantly reduced muscle soreness in young, healthy men, according to a new study. Get the details, including the brand and dose of curcumin used, plus our tests of curcumin supplements, in the updated Turmeric and Curcumin Supplements and Spices Review >> 

Clinical Update

3/06/2015

Green Lipped Mussel Oil Reduces Pain and Inflammation After Exercise

Green-lipped mussel oil (a source of omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA) significantly reduced pain and inflammation days after exercise in young healthy men, compared to a placebo, according to a new study. For details, and ConsumerLab.com tests of the product used in the study, see the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review >> 

Clinical Update

9/02/2015

Vitamin D Increases Strength

A recently published review of clinical studies found that supplementing with vitamin D can improve muscle strength in young, healthy men and women. This has also been found in older individuals and may relate to the fact that vitamin D receptors occur in skeletal muscle. However, this benefit may be limited to vitamin D deficient individuals. Get the details in the "Muscle, balance and falls" section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

9/12/2015

Cardiovascular Benefits of Cocoa Flavanols

A drink rich in cocoa flavanols modestly improved certain measures of cardiovascular health in healthy, middle-aged men and women, according to a recent study. Get the details, including dosage, plus our tests of popular products, in the Review of Cocoa Powders, Dark Chocolate, Extracts, Nibs, & Supplements >>

Clinical Update

11/11/2015

Cocoa Flavanol Safety

A new study found that, even at high doses, cocoa flavanols did not cause adverse cardiovascular effects in healthy men and women. However, be aware that drug interactions and certain side effects can occur. Details are provided in the "Concerns and Cautions" section of the Cocoa Powders, Dark Chocolate, Extracts, Nibs & Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

12/02/2020

Cocoa for Cognition

A new study suggests that cocoa may improve some aspects of cognitive function in healthy people and sheds some light on how this may work. See the details in the Memory and Cognition section of the Dark Chocolate and Cocoa Review. Also see our Top Picks among dark chocolates, cocoa powders and supplements.

Clinical Update

7/24/2021

Diatomaceous Earth for Cholesterol?

Can supplementing with diatomaceous earth lower cholesterol levels and is it safe? Find out in our updated answer to the question: Which supplements can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy? Are there any to avoid?

Clinical Update

7/31/2021

Bergamot for lowering cholesterol?

Can supplementing with citrus bergamot reduce high cholesterol levels? Find out what the research is showing in our updated answer to the question: Which supplements can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy? Are there any to avoid?

Clinical Update

9/07/2021

Walnuts and Cholesterol

See if eating a small amount of walnuts every day helped lower cholesterol in older people in a recent study.

Also see our complete answer to the question: Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy? Are there any to avoid?

Clinical Update

10/02/2021

Artichoke for Lowering Cholesterol?

Can artichoke extract or juice lower elevated cholesterol? Find out what research suggests in our answer to the question: Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy? Are there any to avoid?

Clinical Update

11/11/2021

Sleep, Drink, and COVID Hospitalization Risk

Lack of sleep and frequent consumption of certain beverages may each increase the risk of being hospitalized if you get COVID-19, according to a recent study. Get the details in our updated answer to the question: How are you staying healthy during the coronavirus pandemic?

Clinical Update

12/10/2021

Memory Supplement

Did supplementing with Memory Health, a combination of fish oil, carotenoids, and vitamin E, for two years boost memory and cognition in cognitively healthy older people? Find out what a recent study found in our answer about Supplements and Foods for Brain Function.

Clinical Update

12/30/2021

Nitrosigine for Better Cognition?

Can supplementing with inositol-stabilized arginine silicate (Nitrosigine) improve memory and cognition in healthy people? Find out what a recent study showed in our updated answer to the question: Do any supplements or foods help with brain function, like memory and cognition?

Clinical Update

9/29/2020

Green Tea for Memory?

Can a green tea extract supplement improve memory or cognitive function in healthy, older men and women? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of our Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks for green tea supplements and drinks.

Clinical Update

4/05/2020

Dark Chocolate for Memory?

Studies show that chocolate high in flavanols can improve cognition in people with cognitive decline. Can it also boost memory in people who are cognitively healthy? Find out in the Memory section of the Dark Chocolate and Cocoa Powders Review. Also see our Top Picks for dark chocolates and cocoa powders.

Clinical Update

10/20/2018

Omega-3s & Healthy Aging

Do higher blood levels of omega-3 fatty acids (as obtained from fish and/or fish oil) correlate with healthier aging? See what a new study found in our updates to the Fish Oil Supplements Review and the Canned Tuna and Salmon Review.

Clinical Update

1/25/2020

Best Way to Cook With Olive Oil

Cooking can reduce levels of heart-healthy polyphenols in extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), but a new study showed how to minimize this loss. Get the details in the ConsumerTips section of the Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review. Also see our Top Picks among extra virgin olive oils.

Clinical Update

10/18/2014

Curcumin for Cognition and Fatigue

A study found that taking curcumin daily improved certain measures of cognitive function and fatigue in healthy men and women ages 60 to 85. Get the details, as well as our reviews of curcumin products, in the updated Curcumin Supplements Review >> 

Clinical Update

8/20/2016

Vitamin D, Blood Sugar & Insulin Resistance

Vitamin D, Blood Sugar & Insulin Resistance --A moderate, daily dose of vitamin D had positive effects on blood glucose and insulin sensitivity in healthy men and women who largely were deficient in vitamin D, according to a new study. Get the details in the Vitamin D Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

10/31/2016

Vitamin D Spray

A study found that vitamin D oral spray was no better than capsules in raising vitamin D levels in healthy men and women. However, a similar study in people with intestinal conditions that can affect absorption suggests a spray may be better. For details (as well as our ratings of products), see the ConsumerTips section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

6/28/2017

Some Concern About Theobromine in Dark Chocolate

ConsumerLab's tests of dark chocolates show them to contain about as much theobromine (a caffeine-related stimulant) as heart-healthy flavanols. So is all this theobromine good or bad? A recent study suggests that it may be an issue for people who need to control their blood sugar, while, on the positive side, it lowers LDL "bad" cholesterol. Get the details in the "Concerns and Cautions" section of the Cocoa Powders, Dark Chocolate, Extracts, Nibs, & Supplements Review, which includes comparisons of the amounts of theobromine in popular products, as well as amounts of flavanols, caffeine, and contaminants.

Clinical Update

4/06/2018

Curcumin for Cognition?

Did high-dose curcumin (derived from turmeric) improve cognition or reduce fatigue in healthy middle-aged and older people in a recent study? Find out what curcumin can and can’t do in the What It Does section of the Turmeric & Curcumin Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among curcumin and turmeric products.)

Clinical Update

9/22/2015

Probiotic Increases Bowel Movement Frequency

A certain probiotic increased the number of weekly bowel movements in healthy men and women who reported a low frequency. Get the details, including brand and dosage, plus our tests of popular products in the Probiotic Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

8/12/2015

Curcumin May Reduce Muscle Pain After Exercise

A small study has reported that curcumin reduced muscle pain after exercise in young, healthy men. Get the details, including dosage, plus more about curcumin for other types pain and our tests of popular products, in the Turmeric and Curcumin Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

12/14/2019

B12 & the Vegetarian

Vegetarians and vegans are susceptible to vitamin B12 deficiency, which can be manifest by a range of health issues, including low blood pressure, as recently reported in an otherwise healthy young man. Learn more in the B12 section of the B Vitamin Supplements Review. Also see our Top Pick for vitamin B12.

Clinical Update

1/14/2017

Enzymes for Muscle Soreness

A blend of enzymes reduced delayed-onset muscle soreness after exercise in healthy men. For details, see the "What They Do" section of the Digestive Enzyme Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

3/29/2022

Collagen for Joint Discomfort?

Can supplementing with low-dose collagen reduce joint pain in healthy older adults? Find out what a recent study showed in the Joint Pain section of our Collagen Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for collagen.

Clinical Update

4/29/2022

Vitamin K and Heart Valve Calcification

Can supplementation with the MK-7 form of vitamin K2 slow the progression of aortic valve calcification, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease? See what a new study found in the Heart Disease section of our Vitamin K Supplements Review.

Also see our answer to the question: Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy? Are there any to avoid?

Clinical Update

2/10/2023

Magnesium and Artery Calcification

Did magnesium supplementation slow coronary artery calcification in people with chronic kidney disease? See what a recent study found in the What It Does section of our Magnesium Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for magnesium.

Also see: Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy? Are there any to avoid?

Clinical Update

2/14/2023

Does Lion's Mane Boost Cognition?

Did taking lion’s mane boost cognitive function in healthy, young people in a recent study? Find out in our Lion's Mane Review, which also discusses lion’s mane’s effects on older people and identifies our Top Pick among Lion's Mane supplements.

Also, see our article about other supplements for brain function.

Clinical Update

1/25/2022

Probiotic to Lower Cholesterol?

Can taking a probiotic lower elevated cholesterol levels? See what a new study found in the Cholesterol-lowering section of our Probiotics Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for probiotics.

For other approaches to lowering cholesterol, see our answer to the question: Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy?

Clinical Update

2/11/2022

Black Garlic for Lowering Cholesterol?

Did aged black garlic extract help lower high cholesterol in a recent study? Find out in our Black Garlic section of our Garlic Supplements Review.

Also see our answer to the question: Which supplements or foods help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy?

Clinical Update

4/25/2023

Does Melatonin Improve Cognition?

Find out what studies have shown when melatonin has been used by people with Alzheimer’s disease as well as cognitively healthy older people in the What It Does section of our Melatonin Supplements Review.

Also see our Top Picks for melatonin.

Clinical Update

6/13/2023

Grape Seed Extract & Cognition

Does grape seed extract improve cognition in older people with mild cognitive impairment, or in healthy young people? Find out in the Cognitive function section of our article about Grape Seed Extract. Also discussed is a misrepresented study of the ingredient Cognigrape.

Also see: Do any supplements, foods or lifestyle modifications help with brain function, like memory and cognition?

Clinical Update

9/22/2023

Take Coconut Oil With Statins for Cholesterol?

Does taking coconut oil enhance, or diminish, the cholesterol-lowering effect of atorvastatin (Lipitor)? Find out what a recent study showed in our Coconut and Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) Oil Review, which includes our Top Picks among products.

Also see: Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy?

Clinical Update

9/26/2023

Add Fish Oil to Statins?

For people already on a statin drug to lower cholesterol, does taking high-dose fish oil offer additional benefits? See what a new study found in the Taking With Statins section of our Fish Oil Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for high-concentration fish oils.

Also see: Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy? Are there any to avoid?

Clinical Update

10/10/2023

L-theanine for Cognition?

Does taking L-theanine (a compound that occurs naturally in tea) improve attention or cognition in healthy men and women? Find out in the What It Does section of our L-theanine Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for L-theanine.

Also see: Do any supplements, foods or lifestyle modifications help with brain function, like memory and cognition?

Clinical Update

11/17/2023

Calanus Oil for Memory?

Does supplementing with calanus oil, a source of omega-3 fatty acids, improve memory in older men and women? Find out what research suggests in the Memory Enhancement in Healthy Individuals section of our Fish Oil Supplements Review.

Also see: Do any supplements, foods or lifestyle modifications help with brain function, like memory and cognition?

Clinical Update

12/01/2023

Probiotic for Lowering Cholesterol?

Does supplementing with probiotics help lower cholesterol? See the latest research in the Lowering cholesterol section of our Probiotics Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among probiotics.

Also see: Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy?

Clinical Update

1/12/2024

Pricey Toothpaste for Gum Health?

Tartar Control Fluoride Toothpaste by Smileactives is promoted as “supporting healthy gums” but is it worth $36 per tube? Find out in the Preventing bleeding gums section of our article about toothpastes and other dental products, which includes our Top Picks among products for bleeding gums, preventing cavities, desensitization, dry mouth, and bad breath.

Clinical Update

2/02/2024

Avoid Counterfeits: 4 Brands Added

Counterfeit versions of supplements have been sold on sites such as Amazon. Learn on how to safely purchase products online for 62 brands. We recently added information for Metamucil, Emergen-C, Dr. Mercola, and Healthy Origins.

Clinical Update

4/19/2024

How Olive Oil Lowers Cholesterol

A recent study suggested how substituting olive oil in place of saturated fats can reduce cholesterol. Get the details in the Cardiovascular Disease section of our Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review, which includes our Top Picks for olive oil.

Also see: Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy? Are there any to avoid?

Clinical Update

4/23/2024

Probiotics & Cholesterol

How might probiotics work to lower cholesterol? Find out what a recent study suggests in the Lowering cholesterol & apoB section of our Probiotics Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among probiotic supplements.

Also see: Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy? Are there any to avoid?

Clinical Update

6/28/2024

Beetroot for Blood Pressure?

Did taking beetroot extract decrease blood pressure among healthy older men and women? See what a recent study found in our article about beetroot juice and supplements.

Also see how the nitrate content in popular beetroot products compare, and learn about potential side effects and interactions with beetroot.

Clinical Update

7/22/2024

Near Infrared Light for Cognition?

Find out if near infrared (NIR) light therapy improved cognitive function in healthy people or those with dementia in our article about red and NIR light therapy.

Also, learn whether red light therapy is beneficial for actinic keratosis (scaly patches on the skin caused by long-term sun exposure).

Clinical Update

7/29/2024

Too Much Olive Oil?

Consuming little extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) may be more heart-healthy than consuming a large amount, according to a recent study. Get the details in the Cardiovascular section of our Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review, which includes our Top Picks among extra virgin olive oils.

Product Update

10/20/2025

Bacopa for Brain Power?

Can bacopa extract really improve cognition in healthy people? Discover the latest research and our tips for selecting a bacopa supplement.

Product Update

11/24/2025

Multivitamins & Blood Pressure

New research reveals that a popular multivitamin may help people with poor diets lower their risk of high blood pressure — but for those already eating healthy, the effect could be the opposite. For details, see the Cardiovascular section of our Multivitamins Review, which includes our Top Picks among multivitamins.

Clinical Update

12/15/2025

Olive Oil: Does "Extra Virgin" Matter?

Is regular olive oil as heart-healthy as extra virgin olive oil? Find out in our Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review, which includes our Top Picks among olive oils.

Clinical Update

3/09/2026

Ashwagandha & Male Vitality

Does ashwagandha boost testosterone or improve vitality in healthy men? We break down the findings in our Ashwagandha Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for ashwagandha.

Clinical Update

8/26/2024

Supplement for Memory?

Did Nutrilite Memory Builder improve memory and cognition in healthy, older men and women in a recent study? Find out in the Memory section of our Gingko Biloba Supplements Review, which includes our Top Pick for gingko.

Also see: Do any supplements, foods or lifestyle modifications help with brain function, like memory and cognition?

Clinical Update

8/26/2024

Lower Cholesterol with Nattokinase?

Does taking nattokinase along with red yeast rice lower cholesterol better than red yeast rice alone? Find out what a recent study showed in the Lowering cholesterol section of our Red Yeast Rice Supplements Review, which includes our Top Pick for red yeast rice.

Also see: Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy? Are there any to avoid?

Clinical Update

9/19/2024

Lowering Cholesterol With Alfalfa?

Did taking alfalfa powder reduce elevated cholesterol levels? Find out what a recent study showed in the What They Do section of our Greens Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among "greens" supplements.

Also see: Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy? Are there any to avoid?

Clinical Update

9/19/2024

Niacin-Induced Liver Failure

Be aware of the risk of liver injury from use of very high dose niacin, as recently reported in an otherwise healthy, young woman who was taking niacin to manage anxiety and depression. Get the details in the Niacin (Nicotinic Acid) (B-3) section of our B Vitamin Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for B vitamins.

Also see: Is there a risk of liver toxicity with certain supplements?

Clinical Update

10/17/2024

HPF Cholestene Discontinued?

A CL member noted that the red yeast rice supplement HPF Cholestene is no longer sold on Amazon and asked us if it is discontinued. We explain what’s going on in our Red Yeast Rice Supplements Review, which includes our Top Pick for red yeast rice.

Also see: Which supplements or foods can help lower cholesterol and keep my heart healthy? Are there any to avoid?

Clinical Update

9/03/2025

Beetroot For Lowering Blood Pressure?

Did taking a popular beetroot concentrate lower blood pressure among healthy older and younger people in a recent study? Find out in our article about beetroot.

Clinical Update

2/10/2025

Carnosine for Cognition?

Does taking L-carnosine improve cognitive function in healthy people? Find out what a recent study showed in our article: Are L-carnosine supplements helpful and safe?

Also see: Do any supplements, foods or lifestyle modifications help with brain function, like memory and cognition?

Clinical Update

4/14/2025

Vitamin D for Diabetes Prevention?

Did taking vitamin D for more than 5 years reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes among healthy older people in a major U.S. study? Find out in the Diabetes, insulin resistance and glucose control section of our Vitamin D Supplements Review.

Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.

And see our article: Which supplements and foods can help lower or control blood sugar?

Clinical Update

5/05/2025

Probiotic for Memory?

Did taking a probiotic improve memory or cognitive function in healthy older men and women? See what a recent study found in the Cognitive function section of our Probiotics Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among probiotics.

Also see: Do any supplements, foods or lifestyle modifications help with brain function, like memory and cognition?

Recalls & Warnings

September 25, 2025

StellaLife Warned by FDA for “Homeopathic” Rinses and Oral Care Products

On September 5, 2025, the FDA issued a Warning Letter to Stellalife, Inc.

News Release

January 08, 2008

ConsumerLab.com finds most potassium supplements meet quality standards, but one with only 18% of ingredient — Results for 12 potassium supplements in new review

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — JANUARY 8, 2008 — A new report on the quality of potassium supplements was released by ConsumerLab.com today. Tests showed one product to contain only 18% of the claimed amount of this essential mineral.

Recalls & Warnings

November 21, 2022

Healthy Sense and People’s Choice Multis Recalled

On November 17, 2022, Mason Vitamins Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

March 22, 2023

Of Concern: The Daily Post and Hiya

White Plains, New York, March 22, 2023 — An "advertorial" for Hiya Kids Daily Multivitamin appearing on the website "The Daily Post" provided misinformation and suggested that ConsumerLab.com recommended this product, which is completely false.

Recalls & Warnings

September 08, 2020

Holistic Healthy Pet Warned for Drug Claims

On August 25, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Savvy Holistic Health dba Holistic Healthy Pet following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about some of the company's products, including Doctor's Best for Your Pets, Savvy Holistic Health Pet Essences, ...

Recalls & Warnings

June 09, 2020

Six More Multi-Level Marketing Companies Warned for Coronavirus and Deceptive Earnings Claims

On June 5, 2020, the FTC announced that it sent warning letters to six multi-level marketing companies for selling products such as immune system boosters and probiotics with unsupported claims that they can treat coronavirus (COVID-19) and/or for misrepresenting potential earnings people who have ...

Recalls & Warnings

January 20, 2021

Seller of Omega-3 Warned for Making Claims to Treat Focus, Mood

On December 9, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Bodyhealth.com, LLC following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about the company's products Healthy-Thin Energize, Body Detox (Oral Spray), and Omega 3 Health to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

April 29, 2020

Benefiber Prebiotic Fiber Supplements Recalled Due to Possible Plastic Contamination

On April 28, 2020, GSK Consumer Healthcare recalled one lot of Benefiber Healthy Shape Prebiotic Fiber Supplement powder and four lots of Benefiber Prebiotic Fiber Supplement powder because they have the potential to be contaminated with green plastic pieces or shavings from bottle ...

Recalls & Warnings

August 02, 2013

Vitamin B, Vitamin C and Multimineral Supplements Recalled Due To Anabolic Steroid Risk

On July 31, 2013, Purity First Health Products, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

February 25, 2013

Nutrition Shake Recalled Due To Undeclared Allergen

On February 22, 2013, Herbalife International of America issued a voluntary recall of certain lots of Instant Healthy Meal Nutritional Shake Mix packets which are labeled as dairy-free but may contain trace amounts of milk proteins.

Recalls & Warnings

October 06, 2005

Deceptive Marketing of “Supreme Greens" -- Settlement with FTC

On October 6, 2005, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that three individuals and two companies have settled FTC charges over their roles in the deceptive marketing of Supreme Greens, an herbal supplement.

Recalls & Warnings

July 28, 2013

B Vitamin Supplement Found To Contain Anabolic Steroids

On July 26, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to purchase or use Healthy Life Chemistry by Purity First B-50, a vitamin B dietary supplement which was found to contain anabolic steroids, methasterone and dimethazine.

Recalls & Warnings

April 09, 2018

Bob's Red Mill Organic Amaranth Flour Recalled Due To Salmonella Risk

On April 6, 2018, Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods issued a recall of 2,099 cases of Organic Amaranth Flour (22 oz.) because recent testing found a single lot to be contaminated with Salmonella.

Recalls & Warnings

January 29, 2018

Seller of Male Enhancement, Prostate Supplements & More Warned for Drug Claims

On January 10, 2018, the FDA issues a warning letter to USA Labs AKA Power Source Distributors, Inc following a review of the company's website which found statements made about its products, including Maximum Male, Beta 300 (Beta Prosturol), Chromium Max 1000, DHEA, Healthy Cold-X and ...

Recalls & Warnings

November 11, 2015

Consuming a Single Energy Drink May Increase Cardiovascular Risk

A recently published study found that consumption of a single caffeinated energy drink significantly increased blood pressure and noradrenaline levels in healthy young adults. The researchers noted these changes could potentially increase the risk of cardiovascular events.

Recalls & Warnings

November 04, 2002

Recall Of Selected Store Brand Infant Formula in U.S.

On November 1, 2002, Wyeth Nutrition, in consultation with the U.S.

Recalls & Warnings

November 02, 2012

Maker of Joint Health, Blood Sugar, Prostate, Ginkgo Supplements and More Warned For Drug Claims, Misbranding and Adulteration

On September 10, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Global Source Management & Consulting for making drug claims about the following dietary supplements: Scientific Joint Program capsules, Alpha Lipoic Acid, Healthy Blood Sugar Diabetic Support, Dr.

Recalls & Warnings

September 07, 2012

Prebiotics Recalled For Salmonella Risk

On September 4, 2012, Eco Health, Inc. announced a recall of its florAlign Prebiotic Formula (Powder) due to the potential for the product to be contaminated with Salmonella.

Recalls & Warnings

July 19, 2012

FDA Warns Company Selling Mineral Supplements as Treatments

On June 28, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Prismic Light International for multiple Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) violations, promoting dietary supplements as drugs, and misbranding products.

Recalls & Warnings

June 22, 2010

Pet Vitamin Recalled for Salmonella Risk

On June 22, 2010, the FDA reported that United Pet Group, Cincinnati, Ohio is voluntarily recalling all unexpired lots of its PRO-PET ADULT DAILY VITAMIN Supplement tablets for Dogs due to possible Salmonella contamination. This product is not among those included in ConsumerLab.

Recalls & Warnings

March 14, 2011

22 Brands of Whey Protein Recalled Due to Salmonella Concern

The FDA posted a recall notice involving 22 brands of whey protein powder due to potential contamination with salmonella. The recall was voluntarily initiated on March 10, 2011 by the manufacturer of the products, Vitalabs, Inc.