Showing Results for Member's Mark

1/13/2017

Melatonin Quality Concern

A recent Canadian study found that 71% of melatonin supplements did not contain within 10% of labeled amounts of melatonin. Certain types were more likely to be off-the-mark than others. For details, and our own tests of (U.S.) products, see the "Quality Concerns" section of the Melatonin Supplements Review >>

10/09/2025

TUDCA for Amyloidosis?

Does TUDCA help slow the progression of heart disease in people with transthyretin (TTR) amyloidosis – a progressive disease marked by the buildup of abnormal protein deposits? See what research suggests in our article about TUDCA supplements.

8/16/2022

Relief Factor

A CL Member asked us if the supplement Relief Factor can really relieve aches and pains. See our answer.

11/21/2023

Vegan Multivitamin

A CL member ask our thoughts on Essential Vegan Multivitamin by Future Kind, so we compared it to our current Top Pick multivitamin for vegans in our Multivitamin Supplements Review.

9/24/2024

Cotz Sunscreen

Based on a member request, we’ve added information about CoTZ Flawless Complexion SPF 50 Lightly Tinted Sunscreen in our article about safe and effective sunscreens.

11/28/2023

Gaviscon – For Reflux

A CL member noted that he purchases Gaviscon from the UK. Learn how it compares to alginate products sold in the U.S. and Canada in our Alginate Supplements Review (For Reflux), which includes our Top Picks among alginate supplements.

11/07/2023

Cholesterol Supplement May Raise Liver Enzymes

Two CL members have reported elevated liver enzymes after taking a popular cholesterol-lowering supplement, although this appears to be rare. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements Review.

4/09/2024

Best Fluoride Toothpaste Without SLS

A member asked us to recommend a fluoride toothpaste that does not contain SLS or menthol/mint flavoring, which bothers them. See which product we selected in our article about toothpastes and other dental products.

12/16/2023

A Probiotic for COVID-19?

Did supplementing with a popular probiotic reduce the risk of developing COVID-19 symptoms among people exposed to a household member with COVID-19? Find out in the COVID-19 section of our Probiotic Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among probiotics.

2/27/2024

Matcha Green Tea

We recently announced our Top Pick for "ceremonial" matcha in our Green Tea Review. A CL member asked if we’ve tested "culinary matcha." Although we did not this year, we did in 2021 and we have added those results to the current report.

3/01/2024

Leaky Pills

A problem with a popular vision supplement was reported by a CL member and there have been similar reports from other customers. For details, see the Vision Supplements Review.

3/12/2024

Lead in Meta Mucil

A CL member asked why Meta Mucil 4-in-1 Fiber powder was not tested by us this year. It is because of the lead contamination we found when we tested it in 2021, as noted in our recent report. Hoping to find less contamination, this year we tested Meta Mucil 3-in-1 capsules, as well as Meta Mucil Fiber Gummies (a prebiotic).

See our Top Picks among psyllium fiber and prebiotic fiber supplements.

4/02/2024

Best Bacopa?

A CL member asked which bacopa supplement is best. Based on what has been used in clinical studies, you can see which product we suggest as a top choice for bacopa.

4/22/2022

Does mustard help with cramps?

Several CL members have reported that taking mustard has relieved muscle cramps. Find out why this may help in our answer about foods and supplements for cramps.

7/12/2022

Toxin in Borage Leaves & Tea

A member asked if borage flower is toxic due to its pyrrolizidine alkaloids. Learn about the safety of borage flower as well as borage leaf (used in teas) and borage oil in our updated CL Answer about pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

7/22/2022

Fruits & Veggies from Capsules?

A member asked if Balance of Nature's "Fruits" and "Veggies" capsules are good replacements for the real thing. See our assessment in the article: Are Balance of Nature products good dietary supplements?

7/22/2022

Fisetin & Blood Pressure

A CL member taking anti-hypertensive medication reported that a dose of fisetin reduced her blood pressure for several hours. Find out if this is a known effect in our updated Fisetin article.

Also see our CL Answer about supplements that may affect blood pressure.

7/22/2022

Cadmium, Lead & Chocolate

A CL member recently asked how cadmium and lead make their way into cocoa and chocolate products. Find out in the Cadmium, Lead and Arsenic section of our Dark Chocolates, Cocoa & Cacao Supplements Review. Also, find out how much cadmium ConsumerLab found in cocoa products.

7/26/2022

Chamomile for Sleep?

A CL member asked us if chamomile tea is helpful for insomnia. See what research suggests, and learn about potential interactions with chamomile, in our updated answer to the question: What are the best supplements for insomnia? Are there any supplements that interfere with sleep?

7/29/2022

Citicoline Bad for Arteries?

A CL member asked us if citicoline, a form of choline in supplements, can raise TMAO levels, which has associated with atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). Find out in the Concerns and Cautions section of or Choline Supplements Review.

8/09/2022

B-12 and Insomnia?

A CL Member had trouble sleeping when taking high dose B-12 to correct a deficiency and asked us if this is common. Find out in the B-12 section of our B Vitamin Supplements Review.

Also see: Supplements That May Help or Worsen Insomnia.

8/12/2022

ColonBroom

A CL Member recently asked us how ColonBroom, which is heavily promoted, compares to other psyllium fiber supplements. Find out in our Psyllium Fiber Supplements Review.

8/12/2022

XyliMelts for Dry Mouth?

A CL member wrote to us about XyliMelts to treat symptoms of dry mouth. We've added clinical information about it to the Strategies to Reduce Dry Mouth section of our article about oral care products.

2/28/2023

TUDCA for Acid Reflux?

A CL Member with acid reflux reported symptom relief with TUDCA (tauroursodeoxycholic acid) supplementation, but does clinical evidence support this use? Find out in our updated CL Answer about TUDCA.

Also, see our CL Answer about supplements that may improve or worsen acid reflux.

3/03/2023

Beetroot and Multiple Sclerosis?

A CL member asked if beetroot can increase the risk or progression of multiple sclerosis. Find out in our updated CL Answer about beetroot juice and supplements.

Also see: Supplements for multiple sclerosis (MS): Do any supplements reduce symptoms or relapse?

3/14/2023

Collagen "Boosters"?

A CL Member asked if taking Essential Skin Food -- or other non-collagen products marketed for collagen production -- reduces wrinkles. Find out in the ConsumerTips section of our Collagen Supplements Review.

Also see our Top Pick collagen supplements for skin health and for joint pain.

3/28/2023

Psyllium: Viva Naturals

Concerned about lead found by ConsumerLab in psyllium supplements, a CL member asked Viva Naturals about the quality of its Organic Psyllium Husk Powder, which was not tested by ConsumerLab. Viva provided its quality specifications for the product. See how this compares to amounts of lead actually found in competing products in the Update to the Psyllium Fiber Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among psyllium supplements.

5/26/2023

Lame Excuse from Nuts.com

A CL member who asked Nuts.com about its testing of heavy metals in its nuts and other products was told "... we cannot share the results with our customers in compliance with FDA standards." Really? Learn what the FDA said about this when we asked in the Update to our Flaxseed Review.

Also see our Top Picks among flaxseed products.

6/27/2023

PFAS in Kroger Floss?

Based on questions from our members, ConsumerLab reached out to Kroger to find out if its waxed dental floss contains PFAS. Find out what we learned in our updated article about PFAS in dental floss and other products.

8/01/2023

Season Sardines

A CL member asked how Season sardines with bones compares to the Season boneless sardines that we tested. Find out.

Also see our Top Picks among sardines and for canned tuna, salmon, and herring.

6/04/2024

Caution With White Willow in Joint Supplements

A CL member asked about potential side effects of taking white willow. Be aware that white willow extract is added to some joint health supplements and can have side effects. For details, see the Concerns and Cautions section of our Joint Health Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among products.

6/21/2024

Glycine Top Choice?

We were asked by a CL member for our top choice among glycine supplements. We have not tested glycine supplements, but we reviewed products on the market to suggest what appear to be good choices. See our top choices for glycine and learn more about it in our article about glycine.

6/21/2024

Olive Oil "Not Fit for Consumption"

Some extra virgin olive oils were considered "lampante" (not fit for human consumption) by our taste tester. A CL member asked if these pose a health risk. No, they don't, but for more about what it means, see the Quality Concerns section of our Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review, which includes defects found and our Top Picks.

6/28/2024

Has PUR Water Filter Changed?

A ConsumerLab member asked if the current PUR 7-Cup Water Filter Pitcher is different from what we tested 2020, so we put the question to PUR. See their answer in our Water Filter Pitcher Review, which includes our Top Picks among water filter pitchers.

4/12/2024

Olive Oil Soap

A CL Member asked if olive oil soaps can help moisturize dry skin. Find out what the evidence suggests, plus, learn how olive oil may affect eczema, in our article about soaps for dry skin. Also see our Top Picks for soap and bodywash for dry skin.

Also, see our Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review, which includes our Top Picks among bottled olive oils.

4/16/2024

Pharmaceutical Grade Fish Oil

A member asked why CVS has stopped selling its Pharmaceutical Grade Fish Oil. We asked CVS, which gave no good reason, but we suspect that the product may have been considered an "unapproved" medication due to its similarity to prescription fish oil. But good options remain: See our Top Pick for highly concentrated fish oil in our Omega-3 Supplements Review.

4/26/2024

Recalled Supplement Still Sold

A ConsumerLab member alerted us that a phosphatidylserine supplement that was the subject of recall in January (triggered by ConsumerLab.com’s findings) was still being sold on Amazon. For details, see the Update in our Phosphatidylserine Review, which includes our Top Pick for phosphatidylserine.

4/26/2024

Top Pick Dental Floss

CL members pointed out that Consumer Reports indicated some concern with a dental floss that we recommend. See why we continue to recommend it.

7/02/2024

Ashwagandha Concern

A CL member reported significant side effects with an ashwagandha extract from a well-known brand. Get the details in the Update to our Ashwagandha Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for ashwagandha.

7/09/2024

Sulforaphane (from Broccoli)

A ConsumerLab member brought our attention to a "Sulforaphane" supplement that may provide a lot less sulforaphane than listed on its label. See the Update in our article about supplements for memory.

7/29/2024

Calories in Glycine?

A CL Member reported seeing the sweetener glycine promoted as containing no calories. They asked if this is true. It's not. Find out how manufacturers can get away with this in our article about sugar substitutes, which includes our Top Picks among sugar substitutes.

8/01/2024

SAMe Color?

A CL member asked what color SAMe (S-adenosyl-methionine) tablets should be, noting that tablets received from different brands have been different shades of yellow. See our answer in our SAMe Review, which includes our Top Pick for SAMe.

8/08/2024

Apricot Seeds for Cancer?

A CL Member stated they have a friend who has been eating apricot seeds after being diagnosed with colon cancer and asked if this could be harmful. Find out in our article about supplements and chemotherapy.

10/08/2024

Psyllium Serving Size

A CL member pointed out that a popular brand of psyllium incorrectly lists its serving size. We confirmed this with the manufacturer. For the correct information, see our Psyllium Supplements Review, which includes our Top Pick for psyllium.

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?

11/08/2024

Warning Label on Sardines

A CL member asked why a popular brand of sardines now carries a California Prop 65 warning label. See our answer in our Canned Fish Review, which includes our Top Picks among products (including canned tuna, salmon, herring and sardines).

12/09/2024

Are Oats Safe for Babies?

A CL member asked if any oats we recently tested exceeded proposed federal limits for infants and toddlers. Some would, as explained in the Heavy Metals section of our Oats Review, which includes our Top Picks for rolled ("old-fashioned") and steel-cut oats.

1/09/2025

Another Salmon Gone

We recently learned that our Top Pick for canned, sockeye “red” salmon, is no longer available. See our current recommendation in the Top Picks section of our Canned Fish Review – which includes our picks for tuna, pink salmon, sardines, and herring. (We are currently testing more canned fish products, based on members’ suggestions, so stay tuned for results.)

1/13/2025

Viviscal and Liver Injury?

A CL member who took the hair growth supplement Viviscal attributed liver damage to the product. Find out if there have been similar reports, or ingredients in Viviscal linked with liver injury, in our article about supplements for hair.

1/27/2025

Liver Concern With Provitalize

A CL member experienced elevated liver enzymes after taking Provitalize, a supplement promoted to help with menopausal weight gain and joint pain. Other cases have been reported. Get the details in our article about Provitalize.

Also see our Menopause Supplements Review and our take on other supplements promoted for menopause relief, including Happy Mammoth’s Hormone Harmony and The 'Pause Nutrition Supplements by Dr. Mary Claire Haver.

1/27/2025

Do Estrogen Creams Cause Migraine?

Several CL members have reported migraine after using estrogen creams. Is this a known side effect? Find out in our article about estrogen creams for wrinkles.

8/26/2024

Seed DS-01 Daily Synbiotic

A CL member informed us of a quality concern with this product. For details, see the Update in the Probiotics Review, which includes our Top Picks among probiotics.

8/15/2025

"Spots" on Multis

Dark "spots" on certain multivitamins have been reported by concerned ConsumerLab members. Find out why these spots may occur and if they pose a risk in the ConsumerTips section of our Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among multivitamins.

11/24/2025

Collagen for Wrinkles?

Members of the skin care industry continue to criticize a study that found collagen not to reduce wrinkles. For details, see our Collagen Supplements Review, which includes our Top Pick collagen supplements for skin and for joints.

1/30/2025

Concern with Sorbitol in Flintstones?

A CL member asked if sorbitol in Flintstones multivitamins poses a risk. See our discussion about this in our Multivitamin Review, which includes our Top Pick multivitamins for children and adults.

Also see our article: Sugar Substitutes: Pros, Cons, and Best Choices.

2/06/2025

Why High-Dose B-12?

A CL member asked why so many B-12 supplements contain very high doses of B-12, such as 1,000 mcg or more. Find out when this is, and isn't, appropriate in our article about B-12. Also see our B Vitamin Supplements Review for our Top Picks for vitamin B-12.

4/17/2025

Plasticizer in Dark Chocolate, Tuna, AG1

A CL member informed us that one of our Top Picks for dark chocolate was found to contain toxic phthalate compounds in tests by an independent group. See our take on these findings in our Dark Chocolate and Cocoa Review, which includes our Top Picks for dark chocolate and cocoa powder.

Also see the levels of plasticizers found in one of the canned tunas we've tested and the popular "greens" supplement AG1.

4/24/2025

Heavy Metals in One A Day?

A CL member contacted us this week, concerned by a recent report of heavy metals in prenatal supplements, including a prenatal from One A Day. See our take on these findings in our Multivitamins Review.

5/30/2025

Kirkland Joint Health Supplement Tested

Due to its popularity among CL members, we recently tested Kirkland Triple Action Joint Supplement, which contains a "proprietary" UC-II cartilage blend. See what we found in our Collagen Supplements Review, which includes our Top Pick for collagen for joints and for skin.

Also see our recent Joint Health Supplements Review, covering glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM, and Boswellia.

6/12/2025

Does Amla Increase Urination?

A CL member reported that taking amla increased urination. Is this a known effect of amla? Find out in our article about the health benefits and safety of amla.

6/24/2025

Cadmium & Lead in Popular Cocoa Powder

A separate testing group reported higher levels of cadmium and lead in a popular cocoa powder than we found in our 2022 tests. We now suggest caution with this product. Get the details in our Dark Chocolate and Cocoa Review, which includes our Top Picks among products. (Note: We will soon test cocoas and chocolates again. Product suggestions will be solicited from CL members in July.)

2/19/2026

Creatine & Kidney Stones?

A CL member reported developing kidney stones after taking creatine and asked if there is a connection. Find out what research suggests in our review of creatine, which includes our Top Picks for creatine.

Plus: Learn about supplements such as Kidney COP and Moonstone powder in our article about supplements and kidney stones.

6/01/2026

Red Yeast Rice Caution

It can lower cholesterol but also cause adverse effects, depending on the dose, as a CL member recently experienced. Learn more in our Red Yeast Rice Review, which includes our Top Pick for red yeast rice.

7/31/2025

Flaxseed Change

A CL member noted that the Trader Joe's Organic Flaxseed Meal that we tested now lists India as the country of origin and asked if this change should be of concern. For our take on this, see the Update in the Top Picks section of our Flaxseed Review.

1/19/2026

Strontium & Allergic Reactions

A member asked: Can strontium cause hives? While rare, strontium may trigger severe allergic reactions. Learn more in our Bone Health Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among supplements for bone health.

6/02/2013

Don't Drink Too Much Tea!

After publication of our Green Tea Review last month, a CL member emailed us about the potential danger of getting too much fluoride from tea. Although this won't happen from just a few cups of tea daily, there have been recent cases where habitually drinking extremely large amounts of tea has caused "fluorosis" causing bone pain and even tooth loss. See the warning (and our tests of green tea products) in the updated Green Tea Review >>

10/21/2015

Probiotic Shortens Respiratory Infections

Studies have shown probiotics to reduce the duration and severity colds when taken throughout a cold season. A new study in children shows short-term use of a probiotic -- started at the time a household member gets sick -- also significantly reduces the duration and severity of acute respiratory infections. For details, including our tests of probiotic supplements, see the Probiotic Supplements Review >>

2/21/2016

Gastrointestinal Side-Effects of Chlorella

In response to a CL Answer about Spirulina, CL members have reported vomiting after using another algae-based supplement, Chlorella — a common ingredient in "greens" powders and drinks. We then reviewed clinical studies of Chlorella and found high rates of other gastrointestinal side-effects. For details see the "Concerns and Cautions" section of the Greens and Whole Foods Powders and Pills Review >>

6/19/2019

NAD+ and Cancer?

Supplements that raise NAD+ levels in the body have been promoted for anti-aging effects. But there is a theoretical risk that they could stimulate cancerous cells, and a CL member reported this week that a supplement containing such an ingredient, nicotinamide riboside, appeared to increase his PSA level. Learn more in the Niacin section of the B Vitamin Supplements Review.

4/30/2020

Alpha Lipoic Acid and Reflux

A CL member reported experiencing acid reflux when using alpha lipoic acid. This effect has been reported in clinical studies with higher doses -- which is not surprising consider that alpha lipoic acid is, after all, an acid. Ways to avoid this issue are discussed in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for alpha lipoic acid.

6/19/2018

Cannabidiol (CBD) Side Effects

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.)

12/03/2021

Pesticides in Coffee?

A member recently asked if coffee beans or ground coffee might contain enough pesticide residue to be a health concern. Find out in our updated CL Answer about Coffee and Heart Health.

12/07/2021

Can a Natural Colorant Cause Adverse Effects?

A CL member recently asked if purple carrot powder in his supplement might have caused symptoms such as chest tightness and headache. Find out in our updated article about Inactive Ingredients/Excipients.

12/07/2021

Can Warm Coffee Trigger Burning Mouth Syndrome?

A member asked if anyone else had experienced "burning mouth syndrome" after drinking warm coffee. Find out if drinking coffee can trigger symptoms of this known condition in the Safety section of our updated article about Coffee and Heart Health.

12/10/2021

Prenatal Top Pick Changed

A CL member alerted us that a prenatal multivitamin that was our Top Pick has been reformulated, changing its amounts of key vitamins and minerals. Learn how the changes affect our opinion of this supplement.

12/10/2021

Home Pulse Oximeters for anemia?

We recently reported that use of inexpensive home pulse oximeters may reduce the risk of death in people with COVID. But are they useful for other conditions, such as anemia? A member recently asked us about this. Find out in our updated answer the the question: Which is the best pulse oximeter for home use? which includes our Top Picks among home pulse oximeters.

12/14/2021

Tip for Nickel Sensitive Folks

Nickel can trigger an allergic dermatitis in some people, such as from consuming chocolate that is high in nickel. A CL member asked us if supplements can reduce nickel absorption. The answer is yes. Find out how in the Nickel section of our Cocoa/Chocolate Review.

12/24/2021

Does Collagen Increase Kidney Stone Risk?

A member asked whether supplementing with collagen increases the risk of kidney stones, since collagen can produce oxalates. Find out in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Collagen Supplements Review. Also, see our Top Picks for collagen supplements.

8/14/2021

Danger With Too Much B-6

A CL member recently told us about a friend who developed progressively worsening neuropathy (nerve damage) after taking very high dose vitamin B-6. It's important to be aware of the upper daily limit for vitamin B-6 and that taking too much can cause nerve damage, as well as skin lesions and other adverse effects, as discussed in detail in our B Vitamin Supplements Review.

11/11/2020

A Different Red Yeast Rice

A CL member asked about a newer type of red yeast rice known as Ankascin 568-R Plus. We’ve added information about it to our Red Yeast Rice Review. Also see our Top Pick for red yeast rice.

8/16/2022

Microplastics in Fish Oil?

A CL member asked if they should be concerned about microplastics in fish oil supplements. Find out in our Fish Oil Supplements Review.

8/30/2022

Getting Minoxidil for Hair

A CL Member asked how to get low-dose minoxidil (for hair growth), since it usually comes in higher-dose tablets. Find out in our article about supplements and treatments for hair.

9/16/2022

Are Plant Proteins Enough?

A CL Member asked if plant-based proteins provide all the essential amino acids people must get from their diet. Find out in the Protein section of our article: Top 8 Supplements for Vegetarians and Vegans.

9/16/2022

Gluten & Dry Eye?

A CL member commented that their chronic dry eye went away after eliminating gluten from their diet. Is there clinical evidence that this can help? Find out in our article about supplements and lifestyle modifications for dry eye.

9/20/2022

Dry Mouth Spray

A CL member asked us to review the oral moisturizer Allday Dry Mouth Spray. Find out how it compares to other products, and see our Top Pick among them, in the Oral Moisturizers section of our article about the best toothpastes and other dental products.

9/28/2022

Spark Keto for Weight?

A CL Member asked if Spark Keto (a.k.a. K3 Spark), can help with weight management. Find out what research suggests in the Appetite Suppressants section of our CL Answer about Supplements for Weight.

9/28/2022

Justifying Bad Red Yeast Rice?

How can a major supplement company justify selling red yeast rice that ConsumerLab discovered to be contaminated and provide barely any active compound? Find out what a CL member was told when she asked the company.

9/30/2022

When to Take Synthroid

A CL member asked if taking levothyroxine (Synthroid) at bedtime could cause insomnia. We answered this question. We also added new information about taking levothyroxine with coffee. It’s all in our updated article about supplement and food interactions with levothyroxine.

9/30/2022

Glutamine Side Effects

A CL Member experienced dizziness, nausea, and anxiety after taking L-glutamine. Find out if these are known side effects of L-glutamine, and learn about other potential adverse effects of glutamine in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Muscle & Workout Supplements Review.

Also see our article about supplements that may cause dizziness.

10/04/2022

Taking Olive Oil as a Supplement?

A CL member asked if they should take olive oil as a supplement. Find out in our new answer to the question: Should you take olive oil as a supplement?

10/07/2022

D-Mannose from Food?

A CL Member asked if it's possible to get a meaningful amount of D-mannose from food. Find out in our article about D-mannose and urinary tract infections, which includes information about D-mannose dosage and possible side effects.

10/11/2022

Removing Radium From Water?

A CL Member asked if water pitcher filters can remove radium from drinking water. Find out in the What to Consider When Using section of our Water Filter Pitchers Review.

10/14/2022

Cancer-Causing Sweetener?

Acesulfame potassium is a sweetener in some of the products that we have tested. A CL member asked if it can cause cancer. Find out in the Sweetening agents section of our Inactive Ingredients/Excipients in Supplements Review Article.

10/14/2022

How Much Zinc Causes Copper Deficiency?

High zinc intake can cause copper deficiency. A CL member asked us how much zinc (from zinc carnitine) would require them to supplement with copper. Find out in our Zinc Carnosine article and learn more in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Zinc Supplements Review, which also lists food sources of copper.

10/21/2022

CholestOff -- How Versions Differ

A CL member asked us the difference between versions of Cholestoff on the market. Find out in our Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements Review, which includes our tests of CholestOff Plus, and our Top Pick among products.

10/21/2022

Oregano Oil for Ulcers?

A CL member asked us if supplementing with oregano oil reduces H. pylori infection, a common cause of stomach ulcers. Find out what research suggests in our CL Answer about supplements for peptic ulcer disease.

10/21/2022

D-mannose for Gray Hair?

In response to our article Can any supplements reverse gray hair?, a CL member commented that their white hair began growing black roots after taking D-Mannose. Is there evidence that D-Mannose can affect hair color? See our response.

10/25/2022

Black Seed for Thyroid Disease?

A CL Member commented that they take black seed oil for Hashimoto’s disease, which affects the thyroid. Is there evidence for this approach? Find out in our article about black seed oil.

Also, see our CL Answer about supplements for thyroid function.

10/25/2022

Can Foods Cause Iodine Deficiency?

A CL Member asked if foods could interfere with iodine absorption. The answer is yes, although this is not likely, as we explain in the Preventing/treating iodine deficiency section of our Kelp Supplements Review.

10/28/2022

He Shou Wu (Fo-Ti) for Darkening Gray Hair?

Two CL members reported reversing their gray hair by supplementing with Polygonum (He Shou Wu or fo-ti). See the evidence, as well as risks, for this herb in our article about supplements for gray hair.

10/28/2022

Medications & Losing Hair

A CL Member asked if lamotrigine, prescribed for seizures and bipolar disorder, can cause hair to fall out. The answer is yes -- it is among a number medications and supplements that can affect hair growth.

10/28/2022

Herb for Boosting Testosterone?

A CL Member asked if Eurycoma longifolia (also called Long Jack or Tongkat Ali) alone or in combination with Fadogia agrestis could help boost testosterone. Find out what research suggests, including safety concerns, in our article about supplements for boosting testosterone.

11/01/2022

Why is Plastic Found in Salt?

Microplastic particles are showing up in many types of salt, even salt from ancient mines. A CL member asked why. Find out in our updated article about microplastics in water and salt.

11/01/2022

zuPOO for a Cleaner, Healthier Gut?

A CL Member asked if zuPOO, a supplement marketed as a colon cleanser, really works. See our take on this product and the evidence and safety of its ingredients.

11/04/2022

Kava Interactions With Medications

A CL Member noted that kava (which some people take to treat anxiety) may interact with medications prescribed to treat anxiety. We have added information about this to our CL Answer about kava interactions with medications.

Also see our article about supplements to avoid when taking Valium or Xanax.

11/04/2022

Best Form of Hydroxyapatite?

Some toothpastes include "hydroxyapatite", while others list "nano-hydroxyapatite." A CL member asked us if one form is better than the other. Find out in the Preventing cavities section of our article about finding the best toothpaste.

11/04/2022

Alternatives to Rx Omega-3s

A CL member who was prescribed Vascepa to lower triglycerides asked if any fish oil supplements are comparable but less expensive. Find out which fish oil supplements are comparable to prescription omega-3s in our Fish Oil Supplements Review.

11/04/2022

Warning on Toothpaste

A CL Member asked why the label on a popular toothpaste warns that it should not be used for tooth sensitivity for longer than 4 weeks unless recommended by a dentist. Find out why this warning exists in our updated section about our Top Pick toothpaste for sensitive teeth.

11/08/2022

5-HTP for Sleep?

A CL Member asked how to use 5-HTP to improve sleep. Find out what research suggests in the 5-HTP section of our 5-HTP and L-Tryptophan and Supplements Review.

Also see our CL Answer about supplements and lifestyle modifications for insomnia.

11/08/2022

Liquid vs. Powdered Herbs?

A CL Member asked if, when taking an herbal supplement, liquids are better than powders. Find out in our answer about herbal supplements.

11/11/2022

Is DGL Licorice Safe?

A CL Member asked if licorice that has had glycyrrhizin removed, known as deglycyrrhizinated licorice (DGL), is safe to consume. Find out, in our updated CL Answer about licorice.

11/15/2022

Risks of Too Many Vitamins & Supplements

A CL Member asked us if it's possible to take too many supplements. The answer is yes. Find out why and the supplements with which this most often occurs, in our new article: Risks of Too Many Vitamins & Supplements.

11/18/2022

Psyllium For Lowering Cholesterol?

A CL Member asked if psyllium could help lower cholesterol and how it differs from oats. Find out in our updated CL Answer about supplements for lowering cholesterol.

11/18/2022

Eggshells for Coffee?

A CL member asked if adding crushed eggshells to coffee could reduce its acidity. Find out what research suggests in our Updated CL Answer about reducing the acidity and improving the flavor of coffee.

11/18/2022

Is Chamomile Tea Safe?

A CL member asked if chamomile tea is safe to drink. It’s generally safe in moderation, but there are concerns with drinking large amounts and with regular consumption during pregnancy. For details, see the Chamomile tea section in our CL Answer about supplements for improving sleep.

11/25/2022

Monk Fruit and Erythritol Sweeteners

CL Members asked if monk fruit or erythritol are good and safe sweeteners. Find out what the evidence suggests in our updated CL Answer about stevia and other natural sweeteners.

11/29/2022

Rinse for Bad Breath?

A CL Member asked if a particular CloSYS Rinse product is helpful for bad breath. Find out in our article about toothpastes and other dental products.

12/02/2022

Vision Supplement Concern

We were asked to evaluate EyePromise AREDS 2 Plus Zinc-Free by several CL members. We have not tested this product, but have concerns about its formula and dosing, as explained in our Vision Supplements Review.

12/06/2022

Digestive Enzymes – Prescription vs. Supplements

A CL member with chronic pancreatitis asked about alternatives to costly prescription enzymes. See our Digestive Enzyme Supplements Review for information about prescription enzymes as well as supplements similar to prescription products.

12/13/2022

Goat’s Milk Soap?

A CL Member asked if goat’s milk soap is a better option than other soaps for people with sensitive skin. Find out in our updated article, 5 Tips for Finding a Soap or Body Wash That Won’t Irritate Skin, which includes our Top Picks for soap and bodywash.

2/14/2023

Green Tea: More EGCG and Less Caffeine?

A CL member asked how steeping green tea in cold water rather than brewing in hot water affects levels of polyphenols and caffeine in the tea. See what a study found in the ConsumerTips section of our Green Tea Review, which includes our Top Picks for green tea.

2/14/2023

Plasmalogens for Cognition?

A CL member pointed out that supplementing with plasmalogens at high doses was reported to improve cognitive function in a 2022 study of cognitively impaired adults. We reviewed study and found significant weaknesses. Get the details in the Brain Function section of our CL Answer about plasmalogens.

2/17/2023

Cause of Low Phosphorus?

A CL Member who takes numerous dietary supplements reported having low blood levels of phosphorus. Find out which supplements, conditions, and medications can contribute to this in the Phosphorus section of our Multivitamin and Multimineral Supplements Review.

2/22/2023

Fish Collagen?

A CL member asked whether fish or other marine sources of collagen are good alternatives to collagen from chicken, pigs, or cows, and if there are plant-based sources of collagen. Find out about fish collagen and learn about "plant-based" collagen boosters in our Collagen Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among collagen supplements.

10/12/2021

More About Shingles Vaccines & COVID

We recently reported that getting a shingles vaccine was linked to lower COVID risk. A CL member asked us if this association applied to Shingrix, Zostavax or both vaccines. See the answer.

11/09/2021

Moldy Multivitamin?

A CL member notified us of online reviews reporting "mold" on a supplement that was Approved by CL. We investigated. Learn what we found in an Update to our Multivitamin Review.

2/25/2022

Mercury Levels in Tuna

A CL member asked Wild Planet to comment on the mercury levels ConsumerLab found in its tuna products. See the response in the Update to our Tuna, Salmon & Sardines Review. Also see our Top Picks among canned tuna, salmon, and sardines.

Which commercially available stevia products do not contain "fillers" such as dextrose or erythritol?

Do any stevia products have a less bitter aftertaste?

Which stevia product without fillers is CL's Top Pick?

3/25/2022

Resveratrol and Anemia

A CL member recently reported developing mild iron deficiency anemia after use of a popular resveratrol supplement. Find out what research suggests about this connection in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Resveratrol review.

4/08/2022

Astaxanthin & Seafood Allergy

A member asked if people with seafood allergies can take astaxanthin supplements. Find out in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Astaxanthin Supplements Review.

5/03/2024

Mislabeled Magnesium

In response to a lawsuit, a popular brand of supplements is now providing refunds to people who purchased one of its magnesium products. The suit alleged that the products were mislabeled regarding the form of magnesium they contained. See the Update in our Magnesium Supplements Review, which includes our Top Pick for magnesium.

Similarly, one of the magnesium products covered in our recent Review also seems to have its form of magnesium mislabeled despite providing the correct amount of magnesium. We have changed its status to Not Approved (see the Update).

In addition, a company that sells a magnesium supplement that was Not Approved by us responded to a question about this from a ConsumerLab member. The response suggests that the company does not understand that its product is mislabeled (see the Update).