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CL Answer

Are Balance of Nature products good dietary supplements?

Do Balance of Nature supplements "Fruits" and "Veggies" supplements really provide the daily recommended servings of fruits and vegetables, and are they worth the cost? Find out.

Balance of Nature

Product Review

Fruits, Veggies, and Other Greens Supplements Review (Including Spirulina and Chlorella)

Avoid Lead in Greens, Problems with Pills, and Don't Give Up Eating Whole Foods.

Greens Review Oct 2023

CL Answer

Do any supplements improve balance or reduce the risk of falls?

Find out which vitamins & supplements may improve your balance to help reduce the risk of falling, including vitamin D and protein.

Supplements to Improve Balance & Reduce the Risk of Falls -- older woman walking up stairs

Clinical Update

4/28/2017

Vitamin D for Muscle and Balance?

Why did a recent study show that both high and low-dose vitamin D didn't improve muscle strength or balance in women despite the fact that other studies have shown vitamin D to help? The likely answer has to do with the vitamin D status (i.e., blood levels) of the people chosen to participate in these studies. To find out what you should do to improve your balance and reduce your chance of falling, see the "Muscle, Balance and Falls" section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review >>

Product Review

Melatonin Supplements Review

Trouble Sleeping? See CL's Tests of Melatonin Supplements and Top Picks.

Melatonin Review 2024

Clinical Update

12/10/2021

How to Improve Balance & Reduce the Risk of Falls

Find out how to improve balance with simple exercises, and get tips for reducing the risk of falls in your home. Also, find out which supplements may decrease or increase the risk of falls in our updated answer to the question: Do any supplements improve balance or reduce the risk fo falls?

Clinical Update

11/21/2023

Balance of Nature Shut Down

A court ordered the manufacturer and owners of Balance of Nature supplements to stop producing and selling its products. Find out why in our Fruits, Veggies, & Greens Supplements Review, which includes our tests of Balance of Nature, and our Top Picks among fruits, veggies, and greens supplements.

Clinical Update

12/08/2023

Balance of Nature Back in Business

Balance of Nature has been allowed to resume operations after being shut down for failing to comply with good manufacturing practices. Get our take on Balance of Nature and other products in our Fruits, Veggies, & Greens Supplements Review.

Product Review

Muscle & Workout Supplements Review (Creatine and Branched-chain Amino Acids)

Do Creatine and BCAAs Really Improve Strength and Recovery?

CL Answer

What are the symptoms of B12 deficiency?

B12 deficiency symptoms include fatigue, depression, numbness and tingling in the legs, loss of balance, changes in skin and hair, and others. Find out who is a greater risk for B12 deficiency, and how B12 supplements can help. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Symptoms of B12 Deficiency -- paper with question "Are you getting enough vitamin B12" and boxes to check yes or no

Product Review

Probiotic Supplements Review (Including Pet Probiotics)

Probiotics: See What They Really Contain and Our Top Picks

Product Review

Vitamin D Supplements Review (Including Calcium, Magnesium, Vitamin K, and Boron)

Find the Best Vitamin D Supplement and Avoid Problems

Vitamin D Review 2024

Clinical Update

7/24/2018

Vitamin D and Leg Muscle Strength

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.)

Clinical Update

9/30/2012

Do Spreads Lower Heart Risk?

Buttery spreads like Smart Balance and Benecol claim to lower the risk of heart disease due to their phytosterols/stanols. These plant compounds can certainly help (by lowering cholesterol levels), but recent lawsuits challenge whether Smart Balance and Benecol provide enough sterols/stanols to claim a benefit. It turns out that one may, and one may not. Find out more and get our quality ratings of cholesterol-lowering supplements in the updated Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements Review >>

Clinical Update

6/02/2018

Melatonin and Balance

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.

Clinical Update

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?

Clinical Update

9/30/2024

Coffee & Balance

Does drinking coffee affect balance in older men and women? Find out what studies have shown in our article about potential health benefits and risks of drinking coffee.

Product Review

Apple Cider Vinegar Review — Bottled Liquids and Supplements

Find the Best Apple Cider Vinegar. See Which Apple Cider Vinegar Liquids and Supplements Passed Our Tests of Quality.

Apple Cider Vinegar Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Product Review

NAD Booster Supplements Review (NAD+/NADH, Nicotinamide Riboside, and NMN)

How Important Is Boosting NAD+ Levels? Find Out and Learn How Booster Supplements Compare.

NAD Boosters (NAD+/NADH, Nicotinamide Ribose, and NMN)

CL Answer

Risks of Too Many Vitamins & Supplements

Taking too many vitamin supplements -- or taking too much of a particular supplement -- can have short and long-term adverse effects.

Too Many Vitamins

Product Review

B Vitamin Supplements Review (B Complexes, B6, B12, Biotin, Folate, Niacin, Riboflavin & More)

See Our Top Picks and Which 5 Failed Testing

B Vitamins Review 2024

CL Answer

Is drinking coffee good or bad for heart health?

Learn more about coffee and caffeine, its safety, if it's good for you, how much coffee is too much and its impact on your heart.

CL Answer

I take omeprazole (Prilosec), a proton pump inhibitor, to reduce stomach acid. Are there supplements I should avoid, or be taking, due to this drug?

Supplement interactions with proton pump inhibitor (PPI) drugs like omeprazole (Prilosec) and Nexium.

Product Review

Cholesterol-Lowering Supplements Review (Sterols/Stanols and Policosanol)

Find the Best Cholesterol-Lowering Supplement. See Which Plant Sterol and Policosanol Supplements Passed Our Tests and Are Our Top Picks.

Sterol, Stanol, and Policosanol Supplements for Cholesterol-lowering Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Product Review

Nutrition Bars & Cookies Review (For Energy, Fiber, Protein, Meal Replacement, and Whole Foods)

Find the Best Nutrition Bar or Cookie. ConsumerLab Tests Reveals Not All Nutrition Bars and Cookies Contain What They Claim.

Nutrition Bars Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com (Energy, Fiber, Meal Replacement, Protein, and Whole Food Bars)

Product Review

Zinc Supplements and Lozenges Review

Find the Best Zinc Supplements and Lozenges. Have a Cold? See CL's Top Picks Among Zinc Supplements and Lozenges.

Zinc Supplements and Lozenges Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Product Review

Fish Oil, Krill Oil, and Algal Oil Omega-3 (DHA & EPA) Supplements Review

See Our Omega-3 Top Picks and Avoid Rancid Fish Oils.

Fish Oil and Other Marine Oil Supplements Reviewed by ConsumerLab.com

Product Review

Vision Supplements Review (with Lutein, Zeaxanthin & AREDS2 Formulas)

Find the Best Vision Supplement Based Our Tests

CL Answer

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

Find out if vitamins or supplements such as ginkgo, fish oil, biotin, vitamins A, C, E, D, and B12, or selenium reduce symptoms or relapse in people with multiple sclerosis (MS).

MS 3

Recalls & Warnings

January 16, 2024

NOW Recall of Phosphatidylserine Prompted by ConsumerLab Findings

On January 10, 2023, NOW Health Group issued a voluntary recall of two lots of NOW Phosphatidyl Serine Extra Strength 300 mg Softgels and Protocol For Life Balance Phosphatidyl Serine Extra Strength 300 mg Softgels after a company investigation confirmed some of the products were ...

Clinical Update

8/04/2023

Fruits & Veggies in a Capsule?

We said it was too good to be true, and now the distributor of a fruits & veggies supplement will pay over $1 million to settle a false advertising lawsuit. Get the details and our reviews of products sold by Balance of Nature, Juice Plus, Dr. Berg’s, and Nutrilite.

Also see our Top Picks among other greens supplements, including mixed greens powders, chlorella, and spirulina products.

Clinical Update

11/11/2022

Aspirin Causing Falls

Taking low-dose aspirin increased the risk of serious falls in a recent study. Get the details in our article: Do any supplements improve balance or reduce the risk of falls?

Clinical Update

2/18/2022

Do Vitamin D & Whey Protein Help After a Stroke?

Can taking vitamin D and whey protein after a stroke help improve muscle strength and physical function? Find out what a recent study suggests in the Muscle, balance and falls section of our Vitamin D Supplements Review.

Also see our article about supplements and stroke risk.

Clinical Update

12/09/2020

Too Much Vitamin D

A 2-year study suggests risks with vitamin D at daily doses of 1,000 IU and higher. Get the details in the Muscle, balance and falls section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.

Clinical Update

6/15/2021

Vitamin D May Increase the Risk of Fractures from Falls

Taking doses of vitamin D above the RDA when not necessary may increase the risk of first-time falls with fractures, according to a recent analysis. Get the details in the Muscle, Balance and Falls section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for low, moderate and high-dose vitamin D supplements.

Clinical Update

8/10/2021

Vitamin D & Risk of Falls

A recent study showed that high-dose vitamin D may increase the risk of falls for certain people. Get the details in the Muscle, Balance, and Falls section of our Vitamin D Supplements Review.

Clinical Update

12/07/2019

Vitamin D & Muscle

If you are looking to increase muscle mass, make sure you're getting adequate vitamin D. Raising deficient levels has been shown to increase muscle in seniors, and more recently, in men and women in their 40s. For details see the Muscle, balance and falls section of the Vitamin D Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for vitamin D.

Clinical Update

11/26/2017

Signs of B12 Deficiency

B12 deficiency is not uncommon, most often affecting older people. Symptoms include anemia, fatigue, tingling in the arms and legs and loss of balance -- but a recent case report highlights a lesser-known sign of B12 deficiency. Find out more, plus how much B12 you should get in the "B12" section of the B Vitamins Review >> (Also see our Top Picks for vitamin B12 and other B vitamins.)

Clinical Update

3/11/2012

Strength Improves with Vitamin D

A review of 13 studies found that vitamin D supplements may improve balance and muscle strength, but not gait, among older individuals. See the update to the Vitamin D Supplements Review for details, including dosage. More >>

Clinical Update

9/02/2015

Vitamin D Increases Strength

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

Clinical Update

12/25/2018

Vitamin D for Muscle

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.)

Clinical Update

6/23/2018

Vitamin D for Strength?

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.

Product Review

Extra Virgin Olive Oil Review

Many Extra Virgin Olive Oils Don't Seem to Make the Grade

CL Answer

I've heard that having low B-12 or B-6 can cause depression. Is that true?

Find out if vitamin B12 or B6 deficiency can cause depression and how they can affect antidepressants.

Sad Woman on Couch

CL Answer

What are the side effects of melatonin supplements?

Melatonin side effects - are there any? Read about drowsiness, dizziness, headache, nausea, mood & behavior, the risk of fractures and others. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.

Melatonin Review 2024

CL Answer

Is canola oil good or bad for you? I heard it can be toxic.

Find out if canola oil is bad for you or good for you, and whether it helps heart health. Clinical evidence and how it compares to other oils.

Is canola oil good or bad? -- bottle of canola oil

CL Answer

Can taking too much vitamin B-6 be dangerous?

Find out if multivitamins contain excessive amounts of B-6, how much B-6 is too much, and symptoms of toxicity and overdose.

Vitamin tablets placed on a table to spell B6

CL Answer

What' the Best Way to Take Vitamin B-12? Dosage and Absorption Tips

Discover the optimal dosage and ways to take vitamin B-12, an essential nutrient, for better absorption and effectiveness and learn about possible side effects.

Vitamin B12 Dosage, Benefits, Uses & Deficiency -- B12 Bottle and Tablets

CL Answer

Do hair loss supplements, such as Viviscal, Hair La Vie, and Nutrafol, or topical essential oils work?

Vitamins and supplements that may help with hair loss and thinning, including saw palmetto, beta-sitosterol, protein, iron, and vitamin D.

Supplements for Hair Loss -- woman looking at hairbrush

CL Answer

Best Supplements to Prevent Age-Related Muscle Loss

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

CL Answer

Is magnesium citrate safe? I heard that it might cause damage to the esophagus.

Find out if magnesium citrate is safe to use or if it causes damage to the esophagus.

Magnesium citrate in a spoon over a glass of water

News Release

February 25, 2024

Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2024 Based on Consumer Satisfaction

White Plains, New York, February 25, 2024 — Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on over 10,000 responses collected in November/December 2023.

Recalls & Warnings

April 03, 2024

FDA Warns Ambaya Gold for Promoting Products for Depression, Cancer, & Arthritis

On December 5, 2023, the FDA issued a Warning Letter to Ambaya Gold Health Products, LLC following review of the company’s website and social media, which found statements about the company’s Brain Balance, Immune System Boost, Dentist In A Bottle, Essensiac, Fulvic Green, Silver ...

Recalls & Warnings

February 10, 2018

Warning to D-Limonene, Vitamin C Seller

On January 31, 2018 the FDA issued a warning letter to Long Life Unlimited, LLC following a review of the company's website which found promotional statements and testimonials made about products including Balance 600, D-Limonene, Rapha Remedy, Rapha Remedy w/ p73 Wild Oregano, Vitamin C, ...

CL Answer

Do electrolyte supplements, like Pedialyte, help with hangovers?

Find out if electrolyte supplements and drinks, like Pedialyte, help with hangovers. See the clinical evidence about the effects of drinking alcohol on the balance of electrolytes such as sodium and potassium, plus, other tips for staying hydrated.

Hangover Pic

Recalls & Warnings

January 04, 2020

Hormonal Balance Supplement Tied to Liver Failure

An otherwise healthy 23-year old woman in Texas is reported to have recently developed liver failure (requiring a liver transplant) after taking the supplement Balance (from Alani Nu) for four months.

Recalls & Warnings

December 16, 2015

Maker of Red Yeast Rice, St. John's Wort, Valerian and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims

On December 2, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Nature's Health, LLC, following a facility inspection which found the company's product, including Ginkgo & Rhodiola, Blood Sugar Balance IV, Cinnamon Extract, Choles-Balance Red Yeast Extract, Lecithin, Milk Thistle Seed Extract, ...

CL Answer

5 Tips for Finding a Soap or Body Wash That Won't Irritate Skin

Get 5 tips for finding soap or body wash that won't cause skin irritation. See which soaps we rate best, ingredients to avoid, and phrases on labels that can mislead.

Different bars of soap on a marble countertop

CL Answer

Does red and near infrared light therapy reduce pain, improve skin or cognition, or have other benefits? Is it safe?

Red light and near infrared light therapy devices are promoted for numerous conditions, including acne, fibromyalgia, pain, cognitive function and other uses. Find out if these devices work and if they are safe.

Woman using a red light device on her lower leg

CL Answer

I take a supplement containing a "proprietary formula" which lists many ingredients. Can ConsumerLab test the contents so I'll know the amounts of each ingredient?

Proprietary formulas or blends are often listed on supplements. Learn more about their meaning and safety.

CL Answer

Is there a danger of getting too much calcium from Tums? I take them frequently for heartburn.

How many Tums should you be taking? Learn more about exceeding the recommended daily intake of calcium with Tums.

Too Much Calcium from Tums? -- bottle of antacid tablets

News Release

November 02, 2023

Spirulina and “Greens” Supplement Tests Show Some Problems

White Plains, New York, November 2, 2023 —  ConsumerLab tests of spirulina, chlorella, and “greens” supplements revealed that tablets of three brands of spirulina failed to disintegrate within the allotted time, and several other products contained amounts of lead unsuitable for regular consumption ...

Recalls & Warnings

April 27, 2023

Seller of Magtein, Veggie Caps, & More Warned for Drug Claims, Manufacturing Violations

On March 8, 2023, the FDA issued a warning letter to Spartan Enterprises Inc., dba Watershed Wellness Center, after a review of the company’s website found statements about its Dr. Bob’s Naturals Spirulina, Dr. Bob’s Naturals Magtein, Dr.

CL Answer

Sugar Substitutes: Pros, Cons, and Best Choices

Learn about the pros and cons of using sugar substitutes and artificial sweeteners in place of table sugar. Sweeteners discussed include stevia, monk fruit, and other high-intensity sweeteners; xylitol, erythritol, allulose and other low-calorie sweeteners; and agave syrup, coconut sugar, honey, molasses and other sugar alternatives.

Stevia Health Benefits & Safety -- stevia leaf spoonful of stevia

CL Answer

Which supplements may benefit people with essential tremor, and which should be avoided?

Learn about supplements used for treating essential tremor, including caprylic acid (also called octanoic acid), thiamin (vitamin B1), cannabidiol (CBD), GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), and branched-chain amino acids. Find out which work and which don't. Also find out which supplements and food may make essential tremors worse.

Man with essential tremor holding a cup with his right hand and bracing his wrist with his left hand

CL Answer

Which ingredients should toothpastes and other dental products contain, and which should be avoided?

Learn about ingredients you want in your toothpaste, mouthwash and other dental products and which ingredients you may want to avoid.

Toothpaste in the shape of question mark coming out from toothpaste tube

CL Answer

I read an article stating that some of the ingredients in Centrum multivitamins may be dangerous or toxic. Is that true?

Learn more about the safety of ingredients in Centrum, including binders, fillers, and coloring agents.

Inactive Ingredients in Centrum -- Bottle of Centrum Vitamins

CL Answer

Have you heard of the probiotic, Keybiotics? Does it do what it claims, and is it worth the money they charge?

Whole Body Research Keybiotics probiotic information, including its ingredients and possible cheaper alternatives.

Probiotics

CL Answer

Do magnesium supplements, like Magtein, help memory or protect against Alzheimer's disease?

Magtein, and other magnesium supplements, may help memory and protect against Alzheimer's disease.

Memory 1400

CL Answer

I am curious why some probiotics do not require refrigeration even though they contain some of the same bacteria in probiotics that require refrigeration? Which probiotics need to be refrigerated?

Refrigerating certain probiotic pills and other probiotic supplements is important. Get tips on how to store probiotics properly.

Do probiotic pills require refrigeration? -- Probiotic supplement

CL Answer

What B-vitamin complex do you recommend for older people?

Vitamin B complex supplement recommendations, benefits and top rated brands for older people and all ages.

B Vitamins

Recalls & Warnings

May 14, 2014

Maker of Mood, Smoking Cessation Supplements and More Warned for Violations, Drug Claims

On April 17, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to CDJ Holding, Incorporated, d.b.a.

Recalls & Warnings

August 12, 2024

FDA Warns "Apricot Power" Apricot Seeds Contain Toxic Compound

On May 24, 2024, the FDA warned consumers not to consume three Apricot Power bitter apricot seed products because they were found to contain the toxic compound amygdalin.

Recalls & Warnings

January 15, 2024

Suprex Carb & Sugar Block Recalled

On December 7, 2023, Vita 360, LLC issued a recall of one lot of SUPREX Plant Based Nutrition Carb & Sugar Block after FDA analysis found it to contain only 16 mcg of chromium per serving and not 100 mcg of chromium per serving, as listed on the label.

Recalls & Warnings

October 09, 2023

Organifi Settles Charges of Unsupported Claims

Organifi, LLC has agreed to pay $150,000 in civil penalties and $50,000 in investigative costs as restitution to settle charges that the company made unsupported claims that its Gold, Pure, Green Juice, and Red Juice products could balance hormone and cortisol levels, regulate the ...

Recalls & Warnings

September 10, 2021

FDA Warns Ten Sellers of "Diabetes" Supplements

On September 7, 2021, the FDA issued warning letters to 10 supplement companies that made drug claims by promoting products to treat diabetes and/or lower blood sugar. Five of the products were sold on Amazon as well as on company websites. The products were promoted with statements such as

News Release

February 25, 2023

Top-rated Vitamin and Supplement Brands and Merchants for 2023 Based on Consumer Satisfaction

White Plains, New York, February 25, 2023 — Each year, ConsumerLab.com surveys its free e-newsletter subscribers about the vitamins and supplements that they use. The results below are based on 8,600 responses collected in November/December 2022.

News Release

November 10, 2022

Best Probiotic Supplements Identified by ConsumerLab Tests

  White Plains, New York, November 10, 2022 — Probiotic supplements can be helpful in preventing or treating constipation, diarrhea, flatulence, vaginal infections, and other conditions, but with so many different products on the market, choosing the best one is no easy task.

Recalls & Warnings

February 22, 2024

Herbalife Shake & Protein Drink Mix, Aloe, Linked With Case of Liver Injury

A 13-year-old boy in Texas developed liver failure and hepatitis-associated aplastic anemia after consuming two Herbalife products and an aloe vera beverage over a period of months, according to a report published on February 12, 2024 in the Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and ...

News Release

September 18, 2020

Analysis of CBD Products Shows Price Drop and Lower Levels of THC

White Plains, New York, September 18, 2020 — The recent analysis by ConsumerLab of CBD and hemp extract products revealed a 70% drop in the lowest cost to get CBD since 2018 as well as fewer products containing detectable amounts of THC, a psychoactive compound in hemp.

Recalls & Warnings

February 02, 2018

Seller of Vitamin D, Omega-3's, Whey Protein & More Warned for Drug Claims

On January 24, 2018 the FDA issued a warning letter to Young Health Products, LLC following a review of the company's website which found promotional statements and testimonials made about the certain products, including Lugol's Solution 2%, Liquid Vitamin D3, Probimune, Flax Seed & Omega ...

Recalls & Warnings

September 08, 2011

FDA Warns Several Supplement Manufacturers Not Following Good Manufacturing Practices

In recent weeks, the U.S. FDA has sent warning letters to several supplement manufacturers regarding deficiencies identified during audits of their facilities and not adequately corrected. Use the links below to access the Warning Letters on the FDA website.

Recalls & Warnings

March 29, 2013

Prescription Drugs Found In Prostate and Sexual Enhancement Supplements

October 24, 2012 the FDA issued a warning letter to USA Far Ocean Group Inc./ Health & Beauty Group Inc. because a number of the company's dietary supplements were found to contain pharmaceutical drugs, or were promoted with statements that constitute drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

October 24, 2012

FDA Seizes Many Supplements from New York Company Due To Drug Claims

On October 23, 2012, U.S. Marshalls, acting on behalf of the FDA, seized dietary supplements and unapproved drugs from Confidence, Inc., a supplement manufacturer in Port Washington, N.Y. The products included dietary supplements Dr.

Recalls & Warnings

March 09, 2021

CBD Seller Warned for Drug and COVID-19 Claims

On March 1, 2021, the FDA issued a warning letter to Cannafyl following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about the company's products Balance CBD Drops, Relief CBD Drops, Relax CBD Drops and Relief CBD Salve to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

December 15, 2020

Mushroom Supplement Seller Warned for Drug Claims

On December 4, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Desert Alchemist LLC following a review of the company's website, social media, and Etsy.com store (www.etsy.

News Release

July 26, 2016

36% of Meal Replacement Powders and Shakes Fail ConsumerLab.com's Tests of Quality

White Plains, New York, July 26, 2016 — [Note: This review has been archived and is no longer available online. For ConsumerLab's most recent tests of meal replacement shakes, drinks and mixes, please see our Protein Powders, Shakes, and Meal Replacements Review.

News Release

November 06, 2015

Some Surprising Results from Tests of 43 Probiotic Supplements and Kefir Drinks

White Plains, New York, November 6, 2015 — How many beneficial organisms are in probiotic supplements and kefir drinks? Are any contaminated with pathogens, such as E. coli, and do those labeled as "gluten free" or "99% lactose-free" live up to their claims? To find out, ConsumerLab.

News Release

October 08, 2013

ConsumerLab.com Reports Problems and “Top Picks” Among Bars for Energy, Fiber, Protein, Meal-Replacement, and Whole Food

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — October 8, 2013 — Which nutrition bars provide the best combination of nutrition and taste, and are accurately labeled? ConsumerLab.com recently set out to answer this question by purchasing popular bars in the U.S.

News Release

July 12, 2011

ConsumerLab.com tests menopause supplements and creams: Most are "Approved," but some found contaminated or lacking claimed amount of ingredient

White Plains, New York — July 12, 2011 — Women looking for relief from hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms often turn to supplements containing estrogen-like isoflavones (from soy or red clover), the herbal remedy black cohosh, or creams containing progesterone.

News Release

December 02, 2010

ConsumerLab.com Finds Lower-priced Resveratrol Supplements Pass Tests While Some Higher-priced brands flunk

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — DECEMBER 2, 2010 — ConsumerLab.com reported today that tests of supplements containing resveratrol — a compound promoted as "life-extending" — revealed that two products provided only 43.4% and 86.

News Release

January 13, 2009

ConsumerLab.com reports largest test of CoQ10 and ubiquinol supplements -- Most supplements provide claimed ingredient, but large variation in dosage and forms may confuse consumers. ConsumerLab.com provides guidance.

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — JANUARY 13, 2009 — A report by ConsumerLab.com on supplements containing the anti-oxidant CoQ10 shows the difficulty for consumers in determining an appropriate dosage.

News Release

September 17, 2008

ConsumerLab.com's tests of menopause supplements reveal wide range in strength and quality; mislabeling and contamination discovered -- Soy and red clover isoflavones, black cohosh, and progesterone products tested

WHITE PLAINS, NY — September 17, 2008 — Risks associated with traditional hormone therapy for symptoms of menopause have increased public interest in alternative treatments, particularly dietary supplements. But a report today of recent tests by ConsumerLab.

News Release

August 12, 2008

ConsumerLab.com finds improvements in labeling of nutrition bars but potential pitfalls exist -- New report compares 20 bars, including those for protein, fiber, energy and whole food

WHITE PLAINS, NY — August 12, 2008 — Labeling on nutrition bars has become more accurate, according to a new report by ConsumerLab.com.

Recalls & Warnings

April 18, 2022

Moringa Concern: Blood Clots

A 63-year-old woman in New York with type 2 diabetes developed a blood clot in the lungs (i.e. pulmonary embolism) that her physicians suspect may have been caused by the use of a supplement containing Moringa oleifera extract (Ebhohon, Int J Emerg Med 2022).

Recalls & Warnings

March 15, 2013

Maker of Liquid Supplements Warned For Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims

On January 31, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Liquid Health, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

July 15, 2019

Mislabeled Green Tea Supplement Recalled

On July 11, 2019, DaVinci Laboratories of Vermont issued a recall of 256 bottles of the weight management supplement Dim Plex because they may undeclared fish allergens. 

News Release

July 01, 2008

Tests of ten red yeast rice supplements by ConsumerLab.com reveal significant statin levels, but some pills contaminated -- Popular cholesterol-lowering supplements compared in new report

WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — JULY 1, 2008 — ConsumerLab.

News Release

March 29, 2006

ConsumerLab.com reports on 29 popular melatonin sleep supplements

WESTCHESTER COUNTY, NEW YORK — MARCH 29, 2006 (UPDATED APRIL 7, 2006) — ConsumerLab.com announced test results today from its new Product Review of Melatonin Supplements covering 29 products.

News Release

July 10, 2002

Pharmavite dietary supplements receive ConsumerLab.com approval — Vitamin E, SAM-e, St. John's Wort, Ginkgo and others merit approved quality products ranking

WHITE PLAINS, NY — July 10, 2002 — ConsumerLab.

Recalls & Warnings

July 18, 2017

FDA Warns Seller of "Quick Slim with pure Hoodia Gardonii" and "Diabalance Herbal Blood Sugar Balance"

On July 11, 2017, the FDA issued a warning letter to Black Seed Herb, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

May 10, 2013

Seller Of Sexual Enhancement and Hormonal Balance Supplements Warned For Manufacturing Violations

On April 26, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Pristine Bay, L.L.C.

Recalls & Warnings

December 29, 2020

FDA Warns Five Sellers of CBD for Claims of Treating Arthritis, Alzheimer's and More

On December 22, 2020, the FDA issued warning letters to five sellers of CBD following reviews of the companies' websites, which found statements made about the companies' products to be drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

May 12, 2018

Seller of Maca Powder Warned for Drug Claims

On April 18, 2018, the FDA issued a warning letter to Herbs America, Inc. following review of the company's website, and the company's Maca Magic store on www.amazon.

Recalls & Warnings

December 02, 2020

Seller of Vitamin C, Elderberry, Silver, and More Warned for COVID-19 Claims

On November 10, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Sage Woman Herbs, Ltd.

Recalls & Warnings

June 20, 2020

FTC Warns 30 More Companies for Coronavirus Claims

On June 18, 2020, the FTC announced that it sent warning letters to 30 companies for selling products such as immune system boosters, colloidal silver, vitamin C, and CBD with unsupported claims that they can treat coronavirus (COVID-19).

Recalls & Warnings

November 24, 2018

Dangerous Drug In Supplements for Pain and Anxiety

On November 20, 2018, the FDA announced it has issued warning letters to two companies for the illegal marketing of products labeled as dietary supplements that contain the opioid-like drug tianeptine.

Recalls & Warnings

January 16, 2016

Seller of Liver, Lung Support Supplements Warned for Drug Claims

On January 4, 2016, the FDA issued a warning letter to Tibetan Herbal Balance, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

October 18, 2017

FDA Warns Seller of Arthritis, Blood Pressure, Diabetes Supplements For Making Drug Claims

On August 15, 2017, the FDA issued a warning letter to Years to Your Health, Inc., following an inspection of the company's website which found a number of their products to be misbranded, as they contained drug claims.

Recalls & Warnings

August 29, 2017

FDA Warns Seller of Supplements for Allergies, Joint Pain, Bone Health, and More

On August 16, 2017, the FDA issued a warning letter to Total Nutrition, Inc.

Recalls & Warnings

September 25, 2012

Whey Protein Supplements Recalled Due To Undeclared Allergens

On September 21, 2012, Maine Natural Health, which also sells supplements under the brand name Stronger Faster Healthier, issued a recall of several Whey Protein Concentrate products because the labels do not list the allergens milk, shellfish and coconut.

Recalls & Warnings

June 27, 2013

Two Weight Loss Supplements Found To Contain Undeclared Drugs

On June 27, 2013, the FDA warned consumers not to use or buy two dietary supplements for weight loss which were found to contain the undeclared sibutramine and/or phenolphthalein.

Recalls & Warnings

May 13, 2015

Amberen Weight Loss Claims Not Supported by Evidence, Says FTC

On May 12, 2015, the FTC announced it filed a complaint to stop Lunada Biomedical Inc. from advertising that its product Amberen is clinically proven to cause substantial weight loss in women over 40.

Recalls & Warnings

February 01, 2013

DMAA Supplement Linked to Runner's Death

The cause of death of London marathon runner Claire Squires has been ruled by the investigating coroner as cardiac failure due to extreme exertion, complicated by DMAA toxicity.

Recalls & Warnings

October 05, 2007

FTC Charges Progesterone Cream Sellers with Making Unsubstantiated Claims

On October 5, 2007 the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced complaints against seven online sellers of alternative hormone replacement therapy (HRT) products, alleging that they made health claims for their natural progesterone creams without supporting scientific evidence.

Recalls & Warnings

June 04, 2004

FTC Charges Marketers of Two Supplements with False Claims to Cure Range of Diseases

On June 3, 2004 the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) charged marketers of two dietary supplements with falsely claiming that their products can prevent and cure cancer and other diseases. According to the FTC’s complaint, Boston-area marketers Direct Marketing Concepts, Inc. (DMC), ITV Direct, Inc.