How we review supplements
We buy the products ourselves, our team tests them, and we check every claim against the research before we score anything.
Our process
We choose the product
We pick products readers ask about and products that are heavily advertised. A company can't pay us to be reviewed or to receive a better score.
We buy it ourselves
We order each product from the official seller at the regular price, using our own money. We save the order confirmation and the date of purchase, and we photograph the package when it arrives.
Our team tests it
Our team uses the product as directed for [number] days and records what we notice: the label and packaging, how easy it is to take, taste or smell, side effects, shipping time, and how customer support handles questions and refund requests.
We research the ingredients
We read the label and compare each ingredient and dose with published studies, using sources such as PubMed and clinical trial registries. We list the studies we relied on at the end of every review.
We score it
Every product is scored out of 10 with the same rubric (see below). We write down the good and the bad, including side effects and weak points.
We publish and keep it updated
Each review shows the date it was published and the date it was last updated. We re-check reviews at least every [6 or 12] months, and sooner if the formula, price, or refund policy changes.
How we score
Four checks add up to one score out of 10. The weights are the same for every product.
| Check | Weight | What we look at |
|---|---|---|
| Evidence | 40% | Do the ingredients and doses match what studies actually tested? Are the studies in people, and are they good quality? |
| Formulation | 25% | Are exact amounts listed? Does the formula make sense? Any proprietary blends that hide doses? |
| Realistic expectations | 20% | Do the marketing claims fit what the ingredients can realistically do? |
| Value and risk | 15% | Price per serving, side effects, our hands-on experience, and the refund policy. |
What our testing can and can't tell you
Our own experience is not clinical proof. When our team uses a product, we can tell you about packaging, taste, side effects, delivery, and customer service. We can't tell you whether it treats or prevents a health problem, because a few people over a few weeks can't show that.
For that reason, what we notice by using a product helps shape the Value and risk score, but it is never counted as evidence that a product works. Results differ from person to person.
Independence and how we make money
- Some links on our site are affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Links are marked, and you can read more in our affiliate disclosure.
- Companies can't pay for a review, a score, or a position on our site.
- [Choose one: "We don't accept free products from companies." or "If a company sends us a free product, we say so in the review."]
- We say when a product isn't worth buying, even if it pays a commission.
Health information
Our reviews are for information only and are not medical advice. Supplements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Talk to a doctor or pharmacist before you start a supplement, especially if you are pregnant, take medication, or have a medical condition. See our medical disclaimer.
Corrections
If you find an error, or a company changes something we reported, tell us. We correct mistakes quickly and note the change at the bottom of the review.
Questions about our process?
Write to us at [su*****@*****************ws.com] or use the contact page. Our reviews are written by the people listed on our authors page.