January
A recent study evaluated whether curcumin can help lower cholesterol levels, as well as further reduce levels in people using a phytosterol spread. Get the results and details about the type and dose of curcumin used, in the "What It Does" section of the Turmeric & Curcumin Supplements Review >> (Also see our Top Picks among products.)
For more about cholesterol-lowering, also see our Phytosterol Supplements Review >>
For more about cholesterol-lowering, also see our Phytosterol Supplements Review >>
Taking vitamin D can improve aspects of cardiovascular function in certain situations, as shown in a recently published study. Get the details in the "Cardiovascular disease, blood pressure, and cholesterol" section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among vitamin D supplements.)
A recent study looked at whether CoQ10 can lower cholesterol in people with elevated levels. Find out what the study found and details about dosage in the "What it Does" section of the CoQ10 and Ubiquinol Supplements Review >> (Also see our Top Picks among products.)
A type of curcumin that has been Approved for Quality by ConsumerLab.com was found to be modestly effective in treating symptoms of knee osteoarthritis in a recently published study. For details see the Osteoarthritis section of the Turmeric & Curcumin Supplements Review.
The same study found that combining curcumin with boswellia may be advantageous. Learn more about this and other popular supplements for joint health in the Joint Supplements Review >>
The same study found that combining curcumin with boswellia may be advantageous. Learn more about this and other popular supplements for joint health in the Joint Supplements Review >>
Numerous studies show that getting adequate intake of B vitamins, such as B12, and, perhaps, omega-3 fatty acids from fish, may slow age-related declines in memory and cognition. But not everyone should expect a benefit, as shown in a recent study. For details, see the Memory, Cognition, and Alzheimer's Disease section of the B Vitamin Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products.)
It was recommended last year that women take a choline supplement when pregnant. Adding momentum to this recommendation is a recent study showing that giving pregnant women a larger amount of choline than normally considered adequate resulted in improved information processing speeds in their infants. Currently, choline is not found in most prenatal vitamins. For more information, see the During Pregnancy and Lactation section of the Choline Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products.)
Although some studies suggest vitamin D deficiency is a risk factor for developing multiple sclerosis, a recent review found vitamin D intake was not associated with a reduced risk. Learn more in the "What It Does" section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review >>
Lutein and zeaxanthin may help to slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration in people with low blood levels of lutein. A new study suggests these compounds may have another benefit -- improving memory in some people. Get the details in the "What It Does" section of the Vision Supplements Review >> (Also see our top choices among products.)
Can curcumin reduce symptoms of major depression in people who are already taking an antidepressant? See what a new study found in the "What It Does" section of the Turmeric & Curcumin Supplements Review >> (Also see our Top Picks among products.)
Researchers from the U.S. FDA recently reported finding high levels of cadmium in cocoas as well as cocoa nibs and dark chocolates — particularly in cocoas from certain parts of the world. The results are similar to what ConsumerLab has reported. For details, see the Dark Chocolate, Cocoa Powder, Nibs, Extracts & Supplements Review >>
It's well known that high-dose fish oil can lower elevated triglycerides. But can it help people already on a statin drug? A recent clinical trial answered this question. Get the details, including the dose of fish oil used, in the "Heart Attack and Stroke section of the Fish Oil Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products.)
A woman with hypothyroidism was hospitalized due to a change in mental state and physical symptoms resulting from getting too much iodine from iodine-containing supplements. For details and upper limits for iodine intake, see the Concerns and Cautions section of the Kelp Supplements Review.
A study in which L-carnitine was given to women during chemotherapy had a surprising result: It worsened side effects. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Acetyl-L-Carnitine Supplements Review.
February
Another report was published this week showing no cardiovascular benefit from fish oil supplementation. You can get the details in the Heart Attack and Stroke section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Fish oil may provide cardiovascular benefit in limited situations, as explained in the Review.
A woman in California who was taking maca powder daily to treat fatigue found it was also increasing the concentration of lead in her blood. More concerning is that the amount of lead in her maca was only 1/3 the lead level in one of the popular maca powders tested by ConsumerLab.com. Get the details, and find out which maca supplements passed or failed ConsumerLab.com’s tests in the Maca Supplements Review.
It has been speculated that high-protein diets can result in calcium loss from bone. A recent study tested this. Get the results in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Protein Powders Review -- which also discusses a concern with dehydration. (If you use protein powders, see our Top Picks).
Consuming extra protein, up to a point, was found to help both younger and older people increase muscle strength and size as part of resistance exercise training. For details see the What It Does section of the Protein Powders Review. (Also see our Top Picks among protein powders).
A special formulation of high-dose fish oil was found to help people with ulcerative colitis remain in remission in a placebo-controlled study. It also reduced levels of a key marker of inflammation. For details, see the Arthritis and Other Inflammatory Diseases section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review.
Taking CoQ10 along with standard medication may decrease trigeminal (facial) nerve pain more than medication alone, according to a new study. For details, including dosage, see the What It Does section of the CoQ10 and Ubiquinol Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products).
Taking too much selenium was found to increase the risk of death in a newly published study. How much is too much? Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Selenium Supplements Review.
The use of a folic acid or multivitamin supplement during pregnancy was associated a reduced risk of autism spectrum disorder in children according to a recently published study. Be aware, however, that high-dose folic acid during pregnancy may have negative effects. For details, see the Folic Acid section of the B Vitamins Review.
Can drinking matcha green tea enhance memory or have other cognitive benefits? Find out what a recent study showed in the Memory and Cognition section of the Green Tea Review.
Results of a recent study suggest that a form of ginseng can help control blood sugar in people with type 2 diabetes. Get the details in the What It Does section of the Ginseng Supplements Review.
Commercially available CBD (cannabidiol) preparations were found to be as effective as a prescription anticonvulsant as an add-on therapy for children with epilepsy in a recent study. CBD was less likely to cause side effects than the drug. Get the details, including dosage, in the What It Does section of the CBD & Hemp Supplements Review (which includes our Top Picks).
March
A large study evaluated the effects of taking calcium and/or vitamin D on the risk of developing precancerous colorectal polyps in people with previous polyps. While there was no effect during the study, a follow up study is now showing much higher rates of polyps among those who had taken certain supplements. Get the details in the What It Does section of the Calcium Supplements Review.
Studies have shown some probiotics to help somewhat with weight loss and/or slimming, while others have shown no effect. However, a recent study with a popular probiotic found that it increased weight. Get the details in the Weight and fat loss section of the Probiotic Supplements Review.
A study compared the effects of a high weekly dose of vitamin B12 versus a much lower dose given daily. Both worked equally well. Find out why and get more details about B12 dosing in the B-12 section of B Vitamin Supplements Review.
If you take a statin drug to lower your cholesterol, be aware that green tea can moderately affect blood levels of certain statins, as noted in a recent report. This effect also depends on the amount of green tea consumed and individual variability. For details see the Concerns and Cautions section of the Green Tea Review.
Apple cider vinegar is often promoted for decreasing appetite and weight, but there have been few studies to show whether it works. Find out what a new study found in the Apple Cider Vinegar Review >> (Also see our Top Picks among products).
Giving high-dose vitamin D to people who are not deficient in it may backfire and increase cholesterol levels, as seen in a recent study. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products).
A recent study assessed whether taking L-Arginine before a high-intensity workout decreased muscle soreness after the workout. Get the results and more details in the Exercise Endurance and Recovery section of the L-Arginine Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products).
What effect does giving older men a daily protein supplement and/or a weekly testosterone shot have? Find out in the What It Does section of the Protein Powders, Shakes, and Drinks Review. The section also provides information about the effects of extra protein in other populations. (Also see our Top Picks among protein supplements.)
Saw palmetto extract was once popular for reducing symptoms of prostate enlargement, but studies subsequently failed to find a benefit. A recent study assessed whether it could boost the effectiveness of conventional medical treatment. Get the results in the What It Does section of the Saw Palmetto Supplements Review.
Drinking green tea was associated with a reduced risk of developing ovarian cancer in a recent analysis. Get the details about this and green tea's relationship to other types of cancer in the What It Does section of the Green Tea Review. (Also see our test results for various types of green tea, including matcha, bagged tea, loose tea, and supplements.)
Maintaining an adequate level of vitamin D is associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. But does giving vitamin D to people with existing type 2 diabetes help them with glucose control? Find out what research is showing in the What It Does section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among vitamin D supplements.)
April
Niagen (nicotinamide riboside) has been promoted as an anti-aging supplement. Find out what's been shown in clinical studies, including one published recently, in the Niacin section of the B Vitamin Supplements Review.
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.)
People with schizophrenia were given CBD (cannabidiol) twice daily in the hope that it would improve symptoms and cognitive performance. Find out if it helped in the What It Does section of the CBD Supplements Review. (Also see our test results for CBD products.)
A major study evaluated the effects of supplementing with the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA in people with dry eye. Get the results and details in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oil supplements).
Does giving older people a high dose of fish oil help them with memory and thinking? A recent study helped answer this question. Get the answer and details in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review.
A recent study assessed the effect of MitoQ, a compound related to CoQ10, on the functioning of arteries in older adults. Get the results and learn more about MitoQ in the ConsumerTips section of the CoQ10 Supplements Review.
The European counterpart to the FDA recently issued its conclusions regarding toxicity from green tea catechins. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Green Tea Review.
When is the best time of day to take a protein supplement if you want to gain muscle but lose fat? An analysis of over 30 clinical studies involving protein supplementation and resistance exercise recently addressed this question. Get the answer and details in the ConsumerTips section of the Protein Powders, Shakes and Drinks Review. (Also see our Top Picks among protein products).
Although uncommon, there have been reports of acute pancreatitis occurring in conjunction with L-arginine use. Get the details and learn about other possible side effects of arginine in the Concerns and Cautions section of the L-arginine Supplements Review.
May
Certain types of olive oil may be more effective at improving cholesterol levels according to a recent analysis. Find out more in the What It Does section of the Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review. (Also see our Top Picks among extra virgin olive oils).
Taking cinnamon as a supplement was found to decrease symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis in a recent study. Get the details and learn what else cinnamon can do (particularly regarding blood sugar) in the What It Does section of the Cinnamon Supplements & Spices Review. (Also see our test results for popular cinnamon supplements).
A new study found that diet may influence the age at which menopause occurs in women. This is important because later menopause has been associated with lower risk of many health conditions. Find out which foods are associated with later or earlier menopause in the Background section of the Menopause Supplements Review. (Also see what we found in supplements intended to treat menopause symptoms.)
Be aware that you can get too much vitamin B6 from supplements and energy drinks. This can result in nerve damage and other adverse effects, as has been recently reported. For details, see the B6 section of the B Vitamin Supplements Review.
See what happened when high-dose fish oil was given for a year to older men and women in the Arthritis and Other Inflammatory Diseases section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among fish oils and other omega-3 supplements.
It has been suggested that casein protein be taken at bedtime because it is absorbed relatively slowly, providing a more continuous supply of amino acids throughout the night to maintain muscle. A study recently put this theory to the test. See the results in the Casein section of the Protein Powders Review. Also see our Top Picks among products.
What happens when you give extra protein to women who regularly perform resistance exercise? Extra good things, according to a recent study. See the details (including dosage) in the What It Does section of the Protein Powders, Shakes, and Drinks Review. (Also see our Top Picks among protein products).
The American Heart Association recently affirmed that eating fish may help to reduce the risk of cardiac death, coronary heart disease, and ischemic stroke. However, the same cannot be said for fish oil supplements. Get the details in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also, stay tuned: ConsumerLab is currently testing popular brands of canned tuna and salmon to assess their purity and levels of omega-3 fatty acids.
A new study investigated the effects of collagen supplementation on ankle stability, pain and sprains in athletes. Find out if it helped in the What It Does section of the Bone Broth Review (which includes information about collagen). (Also see how much collagen we found in popular bone broths, and our Top Picks among products).
There are reports of high-dose biotin (common in "hair and nail" supplements) causing false readings on blood tests. Be sure to tell your doctor if you're taking high-dose biotin. Get the details in the Biotin section of the B Vitamin Supplements Review.
Studies have shown higher rates of mental illness and dementia in areas with the lowest levels of lithium in the water, suggesting that people supplement with lithium. However, a new study raises doubts about this. For details, see the What It Does section of the Low-Dose Lithium Supplements Review.
A daily probiotic was shown to greatly reduce the risk of rehospitalization for acute mania among people recently hospitalized for this condition. The probiotic contained strains common in products that ConsumerLab has tested and reviewed. For details, see the What It Does section of the Probiotic Supplements Review.
June
If you take melatonin, be aware that it can potentially affect balance for a period of time, as demonstrated in a recent study. For details, see the Concerns and Cautions section of the Melatonin Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for melatonin.
Magnesium may help some people with depression according to a recent placebo-controlled study. Learn more in the What It Does section of the Magnesium Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for magnesium.
Evidence from several studies suggests that fish oil can help modestly improve muscular strength and/or endurance and enhance the effects of training. A recent study investigated whether krill oil can do the same. See the results in the What It Does section of the Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Fish, Krill, and Algal Oils). Also see our Top Picks among products in this category.
Supplements that contain berberine (a compound extracted from goldenseal) can cause a range of side effects, in addition to drug interactions. It was recently reported that berberine can cause a rare, but severe, skin reaction. Learn more in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Berberine and Goldenseal Supplements Review. Also see our Top Pick among products in this category.
Is it better to get choline naturally from foods or from supplements? A recent study addressed this question. Find out the answer in the ConsumerTips section of the Choline Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among products in this category.
Two studies tested whether or not curcumin can reduce polyps in the colons of people predisposed to getting them. See the results in the What It Does section of the Turmeric and Curcumin Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among curcumin supplements.
A study shows that magnesium can significantly help some people suffering from metabolic syndrome (i.e., high blood sugar, high blood pressure, and related symptoms). Get the details in the What It Does section of the Magnesium Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among magnesium supplements.
Does taking resveratrol improve memory in older men and women? See the results of the most recent study in the What It Does section of the Resveratrol Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among resveratrol supplements.
A synthetic form of cannabidiol appears to be responsible for dozens of reports of adverse effects occurring shortly after taking certain CBD oil products. For details, see the Quality Concerns section of our Review. Also see our Top Picks among CBD and hemp extract products.
Methylfolate (L-5-methylfolate, sold as Metafolin and Quatrefolic) is a form of folate promoted for use by people with common genetic mutations that affect the MTHFR enzyme. But is it really better than folic acid? A study recently tested them head-to-head. Get the results in the Folate section of the B Vitamins Review. Also see our Top Picks among methylfolate and folic acid products.
Studies have shown that certain probiotics help relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), although this can depend on the type of IBS. The most recent study focused on people with diarrhea-predominant IBS. Get the results in the What It Does section of the Probiotic Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among probiotics.
How a bone broth is prepared can significantly affect its content of amino acids - building blocks for muscle and collagen, according to a recent study. Learn how to find or make better bone broth in the ConsumerTips section of the Bone Broth Review. (Also see our Top Picks among bone broths.)
What level of vitamin D is associated with the lowest risk of colorectal cancer according to a recent study? Find out in the What It Does section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among vitamin D supplements.)
A landmark study about the benefits of the Mediterranean Diet was retracted and republished this week. Does this change what we know about the benefits of extra virgin olive oil? Find out in the Cardiovascular Disease section of the Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review. (Also see our Top Picks among extra virgin olive oils.)
A CL Member recently reported developing "dry mouth" after using CBD oil. Dry mouth is among the potential side effects of CBD. Learn more about this and other CBD side effects in the Concerns and Cautions section of the CBD & Hemp Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among CBD products.)
For people who cannot fall asleep until early morning, a recent study showed some benefit with a low-dose form of melatonin. For details, see the What It Does section of the Melatonin Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among melatonin supplements.)
Cocoa flavanols may support intestinal health, according to an animal study with a cocoa powder that acted like a prebiotic. Get the details in the What It Does section of the Cocoa and Dark Chocolate Review. (Also see our Top Picks among cocoa and dark chocolate products.)
Can taking a daily probiotic help reduce bone loss? Find out what a year-long study showed in the Bone density and fractures section of the Probiotic Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among probiotic supplements.)
Muscles contain vitamin D receptors, but does giving high-dose vitamin D to women deficient in vitamin D improve their muscle strength? Get the answer in the recent update to the Muscle, balance and falls section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review.
The first drug containing CBD was approved this week by the FDA. The dosage, however, is quite different from that being used by many as a supplement. Get the details in the CBD and Hemp Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among CBD products.)
Does giving ubiquinol (the active form of CoQ10) to people with type 2 diabetes help with blood sugar control? Find out in the What It Does section of the CoQ10 and Ubiquinol Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among CoQ10 and ubiquinol supplements.)
Can taking an astaxanthin supplement improve the appearance of the skin or protect it from UV damage? See what a new study found in the What It Does section of the Astaxanthin Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among astaxanthin supplements.)
July
Is cooking with turmeric a good way to get curcumin? How does it compare with taking a supplement? Find out what studies are showing in the ConsumerTips section of the Turmeric and Curcumin Supplements & Spices Review. (Also see our Top Picks for turmeric spices and turmeric/curcumin supplements.)
Does taking a multivitamin reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke? See what a recent analysis concluded in the Background section of the Multivitamin Review. (Also see our Top Picks among multivitamins.)
Taking a melatonin supplement can help some people fall asleep, but a study suggests that it may be a problem for people with restless legs syndrome. Get the details, and learn about potential side effects of melatonin in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Melatonin Supplements Review.
Several studies have evaluated omega-3 fatty acids to decrease the severity of depression. Find out if it works in the Depression section of the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oil supplements.)
A recent analysis suggests that breast cancer risk is lowest with vitamin D blood levels at or above 60 ng/mL -- an unusually high level. Before you try this at home, be sure to read our commentary in the What It Does section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.)
Drinking too much coconut water can be dangerous, particularly for certain people. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Coconut Waters Review. (Also see our tests and comparisons of popular coconut waters.)
Can ashwagandha reduce symptoms of schizophrenia? Find out what a new study suggests in the What It Does section of the Ashwagandha Review. (Also see our Top Pick among ashwagandha supplements.)
Green tea may have a prebiotic effect — stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut. Find out what clinical trials are showing in the What It Does section of the Green Tea Review. (Also see our Top Picks among green tea products).
Are fish oil supplements good for the heart? See what a review of over 70 clinical trials concluded in the Heart Attack and Stroke section of the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Supplements Review.
Also, learn what fish oil can or cannot do for other health conditions, such as arthritis, in the What It Does section of the review. (See our Top Picks among fish and marine oils.)
Also, learn what fish oil can or cannot do for other health conditions, such as arthritis, in the What It Does section of the review. (See our Top Picks among fish and marine oils.)
Giving a moderate amount of vitamin D to women deficient in vitamin D was shown to improve leg muscle strength. A much higher dose did not. Get the details, including dosage, and learn about vitamin D for strength and balance in the Muscle, Balance, and Falls section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among vitamin D supplements.)
Can taking melatonin reduce the severity of menopause symptoms, such as difficulty sleeping, hot flashes, and sweats? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of the Melatonin Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Pick for melatonin.)
Taking fish oil can help people with dry eye and it was recently studied for dry eye associated with wearing contact lenses. Find out what the recent study found and learn more about fish oil for dry eye in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil & Omega-3 Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oil supplements.)
Can taking a daily probiotic improve exercise performance? Find out in the What It Does section of the Probiotic Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for probiotics.)
August
Taking vitamin C may modestly help with colds, according to a new study -- but there's a catch. Find out in the What It Does section of the Vitamin C Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for vitamin C supplements.)
A recent study adds to the growing evidence that obtaining and maintaining adequate vitamin D levels can help with blood sugar control. For details about this and studies regarding vitamin D and diabetes, see the Diabetes, insulin resistance and glucose control section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D supplements.)
Curcumin (which comes from turmeric) is not well absorbed unless taken with a fatty (oily) meal, so many formulations have been developed that enhance its absorption. Which of these is best absorbed? Find out in the Which form is best section of the Turmeric and Curcumin Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among tested turmeric and curcumin supplements.)
Can CBD help dogs with osteoarthritis (worn joints)? Learn what a recent study found (as well as the dose used and a potential side effect) in the CBD for Pets section of the CBD & Hemp Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for CBD for pets – as well as for people).
Can taking red yeast rice lower cholesterol levels on top of reductions achieved by switching to a Mediterranean diet? See what a new study showed in the What It Does section of the Red Yeast Rice Review.
Also, be aware that red yeast rice may aggravate symptoms of a neurological disorder, as described in a recent case report noted in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Red Yeast Rice Review.
Also, be aware that red yeast rice may aggravate symptoms of a neurological disorder, as described in a recent case report noted in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Red Yeast Rice Review.
Several studies have evaluated citrulline (which the body converts to arginine) for enhancing athletic performance. Find out if it helps or not in the Citrulline section of the L-Arginine Review. Also, find out if L-arginine, itself, can help.
Increasing protein intake can help older people maintain and build muscle — but it's not that simple. Get the details, and read about the latest studies, in the Building and maintaining muscle mass section of the Protein Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among protein shakes and drinks).
While probiotics are generally safe, they can cause severe illness in people with certain medical conditions. There have been many case reports, including one published this month. For details see the Concerns and Cautions section of the Probiotic Supplements Review.
Curcumin has been shown to reduce ulcerative colitis symptoms and maintain remission. Get the details, including dosage and forms, in the What It Does section of the Turmeric and Curcumin Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for curcumin supplements.)
Studies suggest cardiovascular benefits from daily intake of cocoa flavanols, as found in dark chocolate. However, a new study, focusing on heart failure, suggests more limited intake. Get the details and our analysis in the Cardiovascular section of the Dark Chocolate, Cocoa Powder, and Nibs Review. (Also see our Top Picks for dark chocolate, cocoa powders, and more.)
Can probiotic lozenges improve gum health when used in conjunction with oral cleanings? Find out what studies are showing in the Periodontitis section of the Probiotics Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among probiotic supplements for other uses.)
Be aware that Garcinia cambogia extracts, touted for weight management, may cause liver injury, as suggested by two recent case reports. See the Concerns and Cautions section of the Garcinia Cambogia Supplements Review for details.
Can giving CBD to people at risk of psychosis help normalize their brain function? Learn what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of the CBD & Hemp Extract Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among recently tested CBD supplements.)
September
Can supplementing with vitamin D improve mood during the winter? Find out what a recent study showed in the Depression & Mood section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among vitamin D supplements.)
In a major study, fish oil was given to people with type 1 or type 2 diabetes for several years to see if it would reduce serious cardiovascular events, like heart attacks and stroke. Find out what happened in the Heart Attack and Stroke section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oil supplements.)
Glutamine, an amino acid, plays a role in maintaining the digestive tract. Can taking it as a supplement help people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)? Find out what a recent study showed in the Glutamine section of the Muscle Enhancers Review.
If you take a probiotic when given antibiotics, at what point should you stop taking the probiotic? A new study provides some guidance. For details, see the What It Does section of the Probiotic Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among probiotics.)
A new study suggests that very high-dose vitamin D may increase the risk of kidney stones. For details, see the What It Does section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among vitamin D supplements.)
Can cocoa flavanols improve cholesterol levels? See what a recent study found in the Cardiovascular section of the Cocoa and Dark Chocolate Review. (Also see our Top Picks among cocoa and dark chocolate products.)
An analysis of clinical trials with fish oil looked at whether supplementation was associated with decreased anxiety. See the results in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oil and other omega-3 supplements.)
Does taking curcumin with a meal help control blood sugar levels? See what a study found in the What It Does section of the Turmeric and Curcumin Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among curcumin and turmeric supplements and spices.)
Long-term use of curcumin may negatively affect the liver in a small percentage of people, according to a new report. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Turmeric and Curcumin Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for turmeric and curcumin.)
Many people use CBD to alleviate pain. This benefit has yet to be proven, but a recent analysis of clinical studies with cannabinoids may explain this effect, as discussed in the What It Does section of the CBD and Hemp Extracts Review. (Also see our Top Picks among these products.)
Does taking vitamin C reduce the chance of developing prostate cancer? Find out what studies are showing, including one reported this month, in the What It Does section of the Vitamin C Supplements Review. (Also learn about vitamin C and cataracts and see our Top Picks for vitamin C.)
If you take a cinnamon supplement (or regularly use large amounts of cinnamon), be aware of the potential for side effects. See the Concerns and Cautions section of the Cinnamon Supplements Review. (Also see what our tests of cinnamon supplements and spices found and our top choices among products).
SAMe (S-adenosyl-methionine) may be helpful in depression, although a recent study suggests that the right dosage can be important. For details, see the What It Does section of the SAMe Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among SAMe supplements).
Can vitamin D help with eczema? See what a new study found in the What It Does section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among Vitamin D supplements).
High doses of fish oil highly-concentrated in EPA and/or DHA are known to lower elevated triglycerides. But can they reduce the risk of cardiac events, such as heart attack? Preliminary results from a new study suggest that one product can — at least in certain people. Get the details in the Prescription Fish Oil vs. Supplements section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oil supplements.)
Extra protein can boost the increases in muscle strength and size that occur with strength training. But does extra protein help people already consuming adequate protein from their diets? See what a new study found in the What It Does section of the Protein Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among protein powders and shakes.)
October
A probiotic was found to significantly reduce symptoms in people with acute diarrhea and abdominal pain, adding to the number of probiotics shown to have related effects. For details, see the What It Does section of the Probiotic Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among probiotics).
Does taking vitamin D help older individuals with mild cognitive impairment? Learn what a new study found in the What It Does section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among vitamin D supplements.)
Does taking amino acids after knee replacement surgery help maintain muscle volume, mobility, and strength? See what a recent study found in the What It Does section of the Muscle & Workout Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks in this category).
You may have read that a recent analysis of 81 controlled studies concluded that "vitamin D supplementation does not prevent fractures or falls, or have meaningful benefits on bone mineral density." In general, this is true, but there are important caveats. Learn more in the What It Does section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.)
A common mutation of the MTHFR gene is associated with an increased risk of hypertension. A recent study tested whether supplementing with a specific B vitamin could reduce blood pressure in affected individuals. Get the results in the MTHFR section of the B Vitamin Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among B vitamins.)
Cocoa flavanols may help control blood sugar, but do they offer benefits to people with diabetes? See what recent studies are finding in the What It Does section of the Cocoa and Dark Chocolate Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products).
Which form of CoQ10 raises total blood levels of CoQ10 more? Find out in the CoQ10 and Ubiquinol Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for CoQ10 and ubiquinol supplements.)
Although consumption of green tea is generally associated with a reduced risk of cancers, drinking it a certain way may increase the risk of certain cancers. Get the details in the Cancer Prevention section of the Green Tea Review. (Also see our Top Picks among green tea in bags, bottles, supplements, and matcha.)
Regular use of certain popular medicines was associated with a large increase in the risk of iron deficiency, according to a new study. Get the details in the ConsumerTips section of the Iron Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among iron supplements.)
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.
Studies are showing that higher blood levels of DPA (an omega-3 fatty acid obtained from fish) are associated with healthier aging and reduced cardiovascular disease. Although a cause-and-effect relationship has not been established, if you're interested in increasing DPA in your diet, we just published the amounts of DPA that we found in popular brands of canned tuna and salmon. Some had virtually no DPA, while others provided nearly 100 mg per serving. (Also see our Top Picks for Canned Tuna & Salmon.)
CBD taken 90 minutes before public speaking reduced anxiety without side effects in a recent clinical trial – although it only worked at one of the three doses studied. For details, see the What It Does section of the CBD and Hemp Extract Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products.)
Can red yeast rice lower cholesterol levels in people already taking the non-statin medications evolocumab and ezetimibe? Find out in our update to the What It Does section of the Red Yeast Rice Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Pick for red yeast rice.)
A recent study found that it is possible to modestly reduce pesticides in green tea by following a certain procedure before brewing. For details, see the How to Take section of the Green Tea Review. (Also see our Top Picks among green teas, matcha powders, and supplements.)
Does giving the omega-3 fatty acid DHA to 1-year-olds born pre-term lead to improvements in cognitive development? Find out in the recent update to the What It Does section of the Fish Oil & Omega-3 Supplements Review -- and learn whether DHA use by pregnant women yields benefits for their children. (Also see our Top Picks for DHA.)
Having too much iron in the body is associated with an increased risk of a variety of conditions and, according to a recent study, stroke is among these. For details, see the Concerns and Cautions section of the Iron Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for iron when you need to supplement.)
A study showed negative effects of taking calcium too soon after taking levothyroxine (Synthroid). For details on how to safely take this combination, see the update in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Calcium Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for calcium.)
Can taking CoQ10 reduce muscle symptoms that can occur when taking cholesterol-lowering statin drugs? Find out in the recent update to the What It Does section of the CoQ10 & Ubiquinol Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for CoQ10 and Ubiquinol.)
November
Can curcumin help you lose body weight? Find out what a new review concluded in the What It Does section of the Curcumin and Turmeric Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for curcumin and turmeric supplements.)
Can taking CoQ10 further lower cholesterol levels in people already taking a statin drug? See what a new study found in the What It Does section of the CoQ10 and Ubiquinol Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for CoQ10 and ubiquinol supplements.)
A study has shown a lower risk of heart disease to be associated with consumption of fermented, rather than non-fermented, dairy foods. However, only a certain type of fermented dairy was associated with the benefit. For details, see the Fermented Dairy section of the Probiotics Review. (Also see our Top Picks among probiotic products.)
Does flaxseed oil (which is rich in the omega-3 fatty acid ALA) help lower blood pressure in people with high blood pressure? Learn what a recent study found in the What It Does section of the Flaxseed Oil Review. (Also see our Top Picks for flaxseed and other seed oils.)
Taking high-dose, high-EPA fish oil (Vascepa) was found lower the risk of cardiovascular disease by 25% among people with elevated triglycerides in a major new study. Get the details in the What It Does section of the new Fish Oil Review. (Also see how fish oil supplements compare to Vascepa.)
Concentrated EPA/DHA fish oil given daily to a cross-section of Americans was not found to lower the risk of cancer or cardiovascular disease except for those with low fish intake and for African-Americans. See the details in the What It Does section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. Also see which supplements are comparable to the fish oil in the study.
Some people are vulnerable to serious illness related to probiotic use. Get the details of a recently reported case in the Cautions and Concerns section of the Probiotic Supplements Review.
A major 5-year study in which a cross-section of Americans were given high-dose vitamin D daily found no overall reductions in cardiovascular disease or cancer or death from these causes. However, when excluding the first two years of the study, the rate of death from cancer was 25% lower with vitamin D than with placebo — a finding consistent with other studies. See the details in the Cancer section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.)
The risk of eczema in children was reduced by 54% when a specific probiotic was taken by mothers during pregnancy and then by their infants, according to a new study. The probiotic also reduced the incidence of gestational diabetes among the mothers. For details, see the What It Does section of the Probiotic Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for probiotics.)
Daily melatonin supplementation has been found to decrease pain and improve other symptoms of fibromyalgia. For details, see the What It Does section of the Melatonin Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for melatonin.)
CBD (cannabidiol) may have caused a serious rash in an individual. For details, see the Cautions and Concerns section of the CBD and Hemp Extract Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Pick for CBD.)
This week, the FDA agreed that oils that are at least 70% oleic acid may claim to reduce the risk of coronary heart disease when substituted for saturated fats. Oleic acid is the dominant fatty acid in olive oil. However, our tests of popular extra virgin olive oils show that only some reach the 70% level. Get the details in the Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review. (Also see our Top Picks among extra virgin olive oils.)
Daily intake of soy isoflavones (as found in soy protein and soy isoflavone supplements) can affect thyroid hormone levels — even in people with normal thyroid function, according to a recent study. For details, see the "Concerns and Cautions" section of the Menopause Supplements Review and the Protein Supplements Review.
Higher consumption of yogurt was associated with a lower risk of developing high blood pressure in a recent analysis. Risk was further reduced when yogurt consumption was part of a particular, healthful diet. For details, see the Fermented Dairy Foods section of the Probiotic Supplements Review.
A specially formulated fish oil was shown to be absorbed better than regular fish oil. A closer look at the study, however, suggests that this benefit may be limited. Learn more, as well as how you can maximize fish oil absorption, in the How to Take section of the Fish & Marine Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for fish oil supplements.)
Which supplement was most likely to cause drug interactions for seniors in a recent study? Calcium. Learn more about potential drug interactions with calcium in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Calcium Supplements Review.
Middle-aged people with low levels of vitamin D were given high-dose vitamin D for four months. Find out if this boosted their cognitive performance in the Alzheimer's disease, dementia, memory and cognitive decline section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.)
High-dose CBD (cannabidiol) often causes side effects. In fact, adverse events were reported in 81% of participants in a recently reported CBD study. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of the CBD Oil and Hemp Extract Review. (Also see our Top Pick for CBD.)
Does high-dose vitamin D help women and men with restless legs syndrome? Find out what a recent study reported in the What It Does section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.)
December
Supplementing with L-carnitine can raise blood levels of TMAO which can potentially advance atherosclerosis. However, the science is not clear, as suggested by a recent study. Get the details in the L-Carnitine section of the Acetyl-L-Carnitine Supplements Review.
Iron should not be taken at the same time as any of several prescription medications, due to potential interactions. A recent study adds to the list of medications of concern. For details, see the Concerns and Cautions section of the Iron Supplements Review.
High doses of vitamin C can cause kidney stones and damage kidneys. People with certain diets or medical conditions may be more prone to these problems. Get the details, including those of a recent case, in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Vitamin C Supplements Review.
Supplementing with protein can increase muscle mass and strength more than resistance exercise alone, but the timing of protein consumption can make a difference if you are also trying to improve metabolism and reduce body fat. Get the details and find out what a new study showed in the What It Does section of the Protein Powders, Shakes & Drinks Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products).
Does taking fish oil increase the risk of bleeding? See the latest evidence in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Fish Oil Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among fish oils).
Many women take vitamin D supplements to maintain bone mineral density, but does it really help? A new study provides an answer. See What It Does in the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D).
Magnesium intake significantly affects levels of active vitamin D in the blood, according to a new study. This helps keep vitamin D in an optimal range and is another reason to get sufficient magnesium — which many people don't. For details, see the new information in the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D and magnesium supplements).
Will taking digestive enzymes reduce indigestion? Although not all studies have shown a benefit, a recent study suggested improvements with no adverse effects. For details, see the Digestive Discomfort section of the Digestive Enzyme Supplements Review. (Also see our top choices for enzyme supplements).
Pycnogenol, a branded form of pine bark extract, is promoted for a variety of uses, including improvement of circulation, cognition, joint pain and vision. It was recently given to men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) to see if it would improve urinary symptoms. Find out if it worked, and learn if it helps with other conditions, in our updated answer to the question: What is Pycnogenol and does it work? >>
Nitrate is a key compound in beetroot juice products, yet most products don't list their nitrate content. A new study reveals how much nitrate is in popular beetroot juices, concentrates, and powders. Find out which contain the most or the least nitrate in our answer to the question: Can beetroot juice improve my workout performance?
Does taking creatine improve muscles in older people? See the results of a recent study in the What It Does section of the Muscle & Workout Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Pick for creatine).
A recent study found that eating dark chocolate affected a measure of platelet function. How important is this? Get the details in the Cardiovascular section of the Dark Chocolate and Cocoa Powders Review. (Also see our Top Picks for dark chocolate).
Does curcumin reduce muscle inflammation or soreness from intense exercise? Find out what recent studies have shown in the Muscle Soreness and Recovery After Exercise section of the Turmeric and Curcumin Supplements & Spices Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products.)
Vitamin D increased muscle mass in older men and women with low levels of vitamin D in a recent study. Get the details in the Muscle, balance and falls section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.)