9/12/2024

Matcha for Sleep?

Does taking green tea matcha powder before bedtime improve sleep? Find out what a recent study showed in the Sleep section of our Green Tea Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among matcha powders and other green tea products.

5/29/2025

"Forever Chemicals" In Green Tea?

Testing by a separate research group identified detectable levels of PFAS ("forever chemicals") in one-third of popular brands of green tea, according to a recent report. Get the details, and see our take on the evidence, in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Green Tea Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for green tea bags, matcha powder, and green tea supplements.

3/10/2020

Staying Safe With Green Tea

If you use a green tea extract (alone or as part of a supplement formula), it is important to take it with food according to several reports, as explained in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks for green tea in bags, loose, as matcha powder, and in other forms.

6/18/2016

Green Tea & Cognition

Green tea consumption has been associated with a lower prevalence of cognitive impairment in older adults. However, a recent study evaluating the effects of a green tea powder on older adults with Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia failed to show a benefit. For more information, see the "What It Does" section of the Green Tea Review >>

10/27/2018

Cleaner Green Tea

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.)

3/11/2022

Green Tea and Colon Polyps

Can taking green tea extract reduce the recurrence colon polyps? See what a recent study found in the What It Does section of our Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks among green tea extracts, tea bags, loose tea, and matcha powders.

See our answer to the question: Which supplements help reduce the risk of colorectal cancer?

5/19/2025

Lead in Matcha Green Tea

An independent group recently tested 9 matcha green tea powders and reported that levels of lead and other heavy metals far exceeded "Action Levels." Get our take on this and how the results to compare our own in our Green Tea Review, which includes our Top Picks for matcha and other green teas.

7/09/2014

Chlorella Lowers Cholesterol and Triglycerides

A daily dose of chlorella (an ingredient included in some "greens" and whole foods supplements) significantly reduced total cholesterol, "bad" VLDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels in men and women with mildly elevated cholesterol. Get the details, including the dosage used, plus our tests and comparisons of supplements containing chlorella and other "greens" in the updated Greens and Whole Foods Powders and Pills >> 

9/19/2024

Lowering Cholesterol With Alfalfa?

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

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

8/09/2016

Spirulina Lowers Cholesterol

Spirulina, a common ingredient in greens and whole foods supplements, was found to lower total and "bad" LDL cholesterol, but only in certain people. Get the details, plus our tests of products containing spirulina, in the Greens and Whole Foods Powders, Drinks and Pills Review >>

1/28/2022

B-12 From Chlorella and Spirulina?

A reader asked if chlorella and spirulina are good sources of B-12. The answer is both "yes" and "no," as explained in our Greens and Whole Foods Powders and Pills Review, which includes our recent tests result and Top Picks for chlorella and spirulina supplements.

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.

1/20/2013

Toxin in Algae Supplements

A recently published study found that supplements containing a certain type of algae were all contaminated with a toxin that is a potential carcinogen and can cause liver damage. Get more details in the recent update to the Greens and Whole Foods Powders Review >>

3/15/2017

Anti-Inflammatory Effect of Juice Plus+?

Chronic systemic inflammation is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and cancer. A recent clinical trial assessed the product Juice Plus+ for its ability to reduce this inflammation in obese men and women. The abstract of the published study indicates that it works, but the results tell a different story. For details, see the "What It Does" section of the Greens and Whole Foods Powders, Pills, and Drinks Review (which includes our tests of products) >>

8/31/2021

Spirulina for Type 2 Diabetes?

Does taking spirulina help control blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes? See what a study found in the What They Do section of our Greens and Whole Food Powders and Capsules Review.

9/16/2024

Green Tea & Iron Deficiency

Severe iron-deficiency anemia was recently reported after regular consumption of green tea. Get the details in our Green Tea Review, which includes our Top Picks for green tea.

Also be aware that drinking green tea may significantly affect blood levels of a common beta-blocker, as well as statins, blood-thinners, and thyroid medication. See the Concerns and Cautions section of our Green Tea Review.

12/17/2019

Green Tea and Breast Cancer Risk

Is there a relationship between green tea consumption and breast cancer risk? Learn what a large recent study showed in the Cancer Prevention section of the Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks for green tea -- including brewable green tea (from bags and loose tea) and green tea drinks.

6/03/2015

Green Tea for Weight Control?

Many studies have looked at whether green tea can help with weight management. The results have been mixed. A recently published study used a high-dose green tea extract. Although the researchers concluded it worked, a closer look suggests otherwise, and points to a potential risk. For details, as well as the results of our tests of green tea supplements, beverages, and brewable green tea, see the Green Tea Review >>

4/13/2014

Does Green Tea Improve Memory?

This week, news sources reported that a study found green tea helps working memory. While green tea may have benefits, a closer look at this study suggests the news was exaggerated and misleading. For details about the study (and information about other effects of green tea and our tests of green tea supplements, teas, and drinks) see the update in the Green Tea Supplements, Drinks and Teas Review >> 

8/25/2015

Are Green Tea Pills Safe?

Studies have suggested that extracts of green tea can reduce the risk of certain cancers, improve memory, shrink uterine fibroids, and even help with weight reduction. However, liver toxicity has been a concern with green tea extracts. A large, government-funded study recently found that pills of green tea extract can be safe for many people, but some may experience adverse reactions, including elevated liver enzymes. Get the details in the "Concerns and Cautions" section of the Green Tea Review, along with information about what green tea does and our tests of green tea extracts, brewable teas, and beverages >>

1/06/2025

Green Tea Interaction for Men

Green tea may significantly increase blood levels of a common medication for men. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Green Tea Review, which includes information about many other green tea interactions, including with statins and blood-thinners.

Also see our Top Picks among green tea beverages and supplements.

8/27/2020

Is Expired Green Tea Safe?

We were asked if it is safe to use green tea past its "best by" date and if its flavor or health benefits would be diminished. See our answer in the How to Use section of our Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks for green tea — including tea bags, loose tea, matcha, and green tea supplements.

6/30/2020

Getting the Most from Green Tea

Our Green Tea Review shows that matcha green tea provides higher amounts of healthful catechins than regular green tea. This week, we added information about why this is as well as the results of a new study showing which type of matcha provides the highest levels of polyphenols (i.e., catechins). For details see the What to Consider When Buying section of the review. Also see our Top Picks among green tea products.

4/02/2019

Green Tea and Breast Cancer

Drinking green tea has been associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer recurrence. But what effect does high-dose green tea extract have? See what a major study found in the What It Does section of the Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks among green tea products.

3/27/2018

Green Tea and Ovarian Cancer

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.)

8/09/2015

Green Tea May Inhibit Starch Absorption

A study recently found that taking a green tea extract along with a starchy meal (corn flakes) significantly reduced carbohydrate absorption. This may help explain why green tea may help modestly with weight management. Details about this study, including dosage, along with our tests of green tea supplements and teas, are found in the Green Tea Review »

1/18/2014

Green Tea "Blocks" Beta-Blocker

A new study shows that drinking green tea can drastically reduce the amount of a beta-blocker (nadolol, Corgard) absorbed into the bloodstream. Beta-blockers are typically taken to lower blood pressure, raising concern for people using green tea along with this beta-blocker and, possibly, related medications. Get the details, along with our tests of green tea drinks and supplements, in the update to the Green Tea Review >>   

If you take a beta-blocker (which includes the popular drugs metoprolol (Lopressor, Toprol) and propranolol (Inderal)), be aware that chromium and CoQ10 may offer benefits.

6/20/2014

Green Tea and Liver Toxicity

Green tea extract was listed as one of the most common dietary supplements linked to liver injury in a newly published guideline for diagnosing and treating drug-induced liver injury. Find out what one of the authors of the guideline had to say about the catechin content of some green tea supplements, and get our test results showing the amounts of catechins in green tea supplements in the Green Tea Supplements, Drinks and Brewable Teas Review >>   

2/03/2023

Green Tea & Heart Disease

Find out how many cups of green tea per day is associated with lower risk of heart disease in the What It Does section of our Green Tea Supplements Review, and see our Top Picks for green tea.

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.

7/25/2023

Green Tea for Fibroids?

A preliminary clinical study showed that EGCG from green tea extract may help shrink uterine fibroids. New research suggests why. For details, see the Fibroids section of our Green Tea Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among green tea supplements and teas and find out how much EGCG they contain.

8/22/2023

Green Tea and Blood Sugar

A laboratory study showed how green tea might help control blood sugar. Get the details in the Blood Sugar Control/Diabetes section of our Green Tea Review, which includes our Top Picks for green tea.

Also see: Which supplements and foods can help lower or control blood sugar?

9/01/2023

Green Tea Interactions

Drinking green tea can affect the absorption of many drugs, as was most recently shown with raloxifene (Evista), a medication used to treat osteoporosis and reduce breast cancer risk. Learn about these interactions (including those with certain statins, beta-blockers, and blood thinners) in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks among green tea products.

9/12/2023

Green Tea for Cold Sores?

Does green tea help prevent or treat cold sores? Find out what research suggests in our Green Tea Review, which includes our Top Picks for green tea.

Also see: Can any vitamins or minerals help prevent or reduce canker sores or cold sores?

11/07/2023

Are "Greens" Autoimmune Triggers?

Spirulina, chlorella, and alfalfa -- popular ingredients in greens supplements – have been reported to cause, or worsen autoimmune diseases such as lupus, and dermatomyositis. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Fruits, Veggies, and Greens Review. Also see our Top Picks among fruits, veggies, and greens supplements.

3/12/2024

Green Tea & Blood Sugar

Does green tea reduce fasting blood sugar levels? See what a recent study showed in the Blood Sugar Control/Diabetes section of our Green Tea Review, which includes our Top Picks for green tea.

3/22/2024

Lower Cholesterol with Green Tea

Drinking green tea can lower cholesterol or triglyceride levels, as was recently shown. See the details in the What It Does section of our Green Tea Review, which includes our Top Picks for green tea.

11/21/2023

Green Tea for Blood Cancer?

Does supplementing with green tea improve biomarkers in patients with leukemia, lymphomas or other blood cancers? Find out what research has shown in the Cancer Treatment section of our Green Tea Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for brewable tea and green tea supplements.

9/12/2020

Green Tea and Cholesterol

Can green tea help lower cholesterol levels? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks for green tea.

9/29/2020

Green Tea for Memory?

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

1/16/2015

Another Use for Green Tea?

A recently published study found that rinsing with green tea reduced plaque-forming bacteria in the mouth just as well as a prescription mouthwash. Get the details, including the form and dose of green tea used, in the Green Tea Supplements, Drinks and Brewable Teas Review >>   

6/18/2014

Does Green Tea Really Help With Weight?

A new study found that a popular green tea extract did not cause a reduction in weight compared to placebo, despite the fact that some previous studies have shown a benefit. Get more details, including which green tea extract was used, in the update to the Green Tea Supplements, Drinks and Teas Review >>   

4/22/2015

Green Tea Extract and Prostate Cancer

A new study, funded by the National Institutes of Health, showed that fewer men with pre-cancerous lesions developed prostate cancer if given a daily green tea extract supplement, although the results were not statistically significant due, in part, to the small size of the study. However, a somewhat similar study found a significant benefit. Learn more about these studies, and see our test results for green tea supplements, teas, and drinks, in the Green Tea Review >>

7/11/2015

Green Tea for Weight Management?

Green tea has been touted for weight management, but a recent study with a green tea extract casts doubt. More details are found in the "What It Does" section of the Green Tea Review >>

9/28/2013

Green Tea to Treat Fibroids

A new study suggests that green tea extract may help shrink uterine fibroids (common in women of childbearing age) and reduce symptoms. For details, as well as test results and comparisons of green tea extracts and brewable teas and drinks, see the updated Green Tea Review >>

12/23/2013

Liver Toxicity with Supplements, Including Green Tea

An increase in cases of liver toxicity associated with dietary supplement use has recently been reported. In an article about the findings, The New York Times reports that bodybuilding supplements and products containing green tea extracts are among those associated with such cases. For more information about green tea extracts and toxicity, see the Concerns and Cautions section of the Green Tea Supplements Review >> 

7/20/2018

Green Tea as a Prebiotic

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).

1/30/2019

Getting the Most from Green Tea

If you drink green tea to get beneficial compounds like EGCG, learn about a recent study that suggests that the type of water you use to brew tea drastically affects the amount of EGCG you get. Get the details in the How to Take section of the Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks for green tea.

3/30/2019

Green Tea for Lowering Blood Pressure

Drinking green tea can help lower high blood pressure — and even reverse ventricular hypertrophy, according to a new study. For details, including the amount and brand of tea used, see the What It Does section of the Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks for green tea.

3/07/2018

Statins and Green Tea

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.

10/16/2018

A Caution With Green Tea

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.)

9/24/2019

Does Green Tea Prevent Cognitive Decline?

Does drinking green tea reduce the risk of cognitive decline and, if so, how much do you have to drink? A multi-year study addressed this question. See the results in the Memory and Cognition section of the Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks for green tea.

3/16/2016

Don't Take Green Tea With Iron?

A study shows that iron can bind to a key flavanol (EGCG) in green tea, causing it to lose its anti-oxidant activity. Should you avoid iron-containing foods when using green tea? Find out in the "What to Consider When Using" section of the Green Tea Supplements and Teas Review >>

7/06/2016

Lower Risk of Death With Green Tea

A long-term study of men in China found that those who regularly drank green tea — particularly larger amounts — were less likely to die during the study and had lower risks of dying from cardiovascular disease or cancer, compared to non-green tea drinkers. Get the details in the "What It Does" section of the Green Tea Review >>

8/17/2019

Green Tea and Blood Sugar

Can drinking green tea reduce the rise in blood sugar after a meal, and if so, is the effect greater in the morning or evening? See what a new study found in the What It Does section of the Green Tea Review. Also see our tests and Top Picks among green tea supplements, and brewable and bottled teas.

11/25/2017

How Hot Should Green Tea Be?

Drinking green tea may reduce the risk of certain cancers, but its effect on gastric (stomach) cancer may depend on the temperature at which you drink it, according to a new study. Find out what the best temperature seems to be in the "What It Does" section of the Green Tea Review >> (Also see how brands of green tea, including matcha, stack up in our tests.)

11/12/2019

Green Tea & Stroke

Studies have found green tea consumption to be associated with a decreased risk of stroke. However, a recent study found this to be the case for only for one gender. For details, see the What It Does section of the Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks for green tea.

3/20/2019

Hot Tea & Cancer

Drinking very hot tea increases the risk of developing esophageal cancer. How long should you wait after brewing to drink tea? Find out what recent studies are showing in the What It Does section of the Green Tea Review. Also see other tips for the best way to prepare brewable green tea, and our Top Picks among green tea products.

4/16/2019

Problems With Green Coffee Bean

A recently published analysis found that many green coffee bean extract supplements provided much lower amounts of key compounds than listed – a finding consistent with ConsumerLab's own Review. For details, see the ConsumerTips section of the Green Coffee Bean Extract Supplements Review.

2/07/2017

Colon Polyps and Green Tea

A study of middle-aged men and women found that those given green tea extract after colon polyp removal were much less likely to develop additional polyps than those who did not take the extract. For details about the extract and dose, see the "What It Does" section of the Green Tea Supplements Review (which includes our tests of supplements and teas) >>

11/14/2017

How Much Tea Is Safe?

Green and black teas contain fluoride, which helps build teeth and bones, but excessive intake of teas can cause teeth and bones to become brittle ("fluorosis"). How many cups of tea are safe? Find out now based on recent tests of fluoride in green, black, and herbal teas in the "Concerns and Cautions" section of the Green Tea Review >>

2/27/2018

Matcha Green Tea for Memory & Cognition?

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.

4/24/2018

Avoiding Green Tea Toxicity

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.

10/06/2017

Green Tea & Prostate Cancer

A recent study investigated the effects of green tea extract in men with pre-cancerous changes of the prostate. Find out if it helped in the "What It Does" section of the Green Tea Supplements and Drinks Review >>

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 >>

9/25/2011

Green Tea Extract and Weight Loss

A new study using a high dose of green tea extract showed it to help sedentary overweight men lose weight, while those taking placebo gained weight. This is not the first study to show this potential benefit of green tea extract. The effect may be due to the compound EGCG. Get the facts, including how much EGCG was in the product, in the Weight Loss Supplements Review.  More >>

10/21/2014

Green Coffee Bean Study Retracted

Evidence for this popular supplement's effect on weight diminished recently when the authors of a clinical study admitted that the data was unreliable. The study had been funded by the maker a popular type of green coffee bean extract. For details, as well as our tests of these products, see the update in the Green Coffee Bean Supplements Review >>

1/27/2024

Green Tea Interaction With Medicine

Drinking green tea may significantly affect blood levels of a common beta-blocker, as well as statins, blood-thinners, and thyroid medication. Be aware of these interactions. See the Concerns and Cautions section of our Green Tea Review.

8/04/2023

Chemical Solvents in Tea?

Are chemical solvents used to decaffeinate green tea? Find out in our Green Tea Review, which includes our Top Picks for green tea. Also learn about solvents in coffee.

4/21/2025

Be Careful With AG1

We recently learned that AG1, a popular “greens” supplement, can potentially contain significant amounts of lead and other heavy metals. For details, see the Update in our Greens and Whole Foods Review, which includes how much we found in AG1, and our Top Picks among greens supplements.

12/13/2024

Liver Concern With Athletic Greens AG1

There have been many reports linking the supplement AG1 by Athletic Greens with liver injury – although these do not prove cause-and-effect. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Fruits, Veggies, and Other Greens Supplements Review, which includes our et the details in the Top Picks among products.

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

3/14/2023

Are Plastic Tea Bags Okay?

Are plastic (nylon) tea bags okay to use? There are two potential problems, as we explain in the ConsumerTips section of our Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks for green tea.

9/02/2022

Black Tea for Heart Health?

Drinking green tea has been linked with reduced risk of death due to heart disease, but how about black tea? See what a recent study found in the Cardiovascular Disease section of our Green Tea Supplements and Drinks Review.

3/31/2022

Spinach for Muscle Strength?

Can supplementing with spinach extract improve muscle strength in older adults? Find out what a recent study showed in the What They Do section of our Greens and Whole Food Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among greens and whole foods products.

2/21/2024

Forever Chemicals in Tea?

A recently published study found an association between intake of "unsweetened" tea and higher blood levels of PFAS ("forever chemicals"). Should you be concerned? See the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Green Tea Review, which includes our recent Top Picks among products.

Also find out if "plant-based" plastic tea bags may be less likely to release microplastics than regular plastic or nylon tea bags.

A new video explaining how to choose the best green tea is also now available.

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.

10/17/2023

Spinach and Weight

Can supplementing with a compound derived from spinach help decrease body weight or improve weight maintenance? Find out in the What They Do section of our Greens Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among fruits, veggies, and greens supplements.

1/13/2025

Plastic from Tea Bags

A small study suggested that some plastic tea bags release much larger amounts of nanoplastics than others. For details, and how to avoid nanoplastics from tea bags, see our Green Tea Review, which includes our Top Picks for green tea.

3/17/2025

Plastic in Numi Tea Bags?

We asked Numi if their tea bags contain plastic. See their response in the Concerns with Plastic Tea Bags section of our Green Tea Review, which includes similar information for other tea brands. The Review also includes our Top Picks among green teas and supplements.

2/27/2025

Lead & Tea

Although some teas are contaminated with lead (as we have shown), a recent study demonstrated that tea can also remove lead from the water in which is it brewed or steeped. Get the details in the Brewing section of our Green Tea Review, which includes our Top Picks among green teas.

3/10/2025

Plastic in Twinings or Tazo Tea Bags?

We asked Twinings and Tazo if their tea bags contain plastic. See their responses in the Concerns with Plastic Tea Bags section of our Green Tea Review, which includes similar information for other tea brands. The Review also includes our Top Picks among green teas and supplements.

2/24/2025

Plastic in Bigelow Tea Bags?

Due to concern over microplastics, we asked Bigelow if their tea bags contain plastic. It turns out that some do and some don’t, as we explain in the Concerns with Plastic Tea Bags section of our Green Tea Review, which includes similar information for other tea brands. The Review also includes our Top Picks among green teas and supplements.

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.

3/31/2025

Plastic in Tetley Tea Bags?

Find out if Tetley tea bags contain plastic in the Concerns with Plastic Tea Bags section of our Green Tea Review, which includes information about plastics in tea bags from Bigelow, Numi, Republic of Tea, Tazo, Trader Joe’s, and Twinings.

Also see our Top Picks for green tea (including tea bags, loose leaf tea, bottled teas, matcha, and supplements).

5/12/2025

AG1 Formula Change

Find out what’s recently changed in the popular greens supplement AG1, including a significant increase in a particular vitamin that could potentially cause a side effect. Get the details in our Fruits, Veggies, and Greens Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among products.

6/16/2025

Bigelow Tea False Claim

A jury recently awarded consumers of certain Bigelow teas $2.3 million after finding a "Manufactured in the USA" claim to be false. Get the details in our Green Tea Review, which includes our Top Picks among popular green tea bags, loose tea, matcha tea, and bottled tea.

1/14/2020

Tea & Heart Disease

Another study shows that people who drink tea are less likely to suffer from cardiovascular disease. Find out how much and what type of tea was associated with benefits in the Cardiovascular disease section of the Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks for green tea.

4/27/2019

No Ginseng In Ginseng Tea?

A popular maker of bottled teas is being sued for allegedly not putting ginseng in its ginseng green tea. For details, see the Quality Concerns section of the Ginseng Supplements Review. Also see which ginseng products were Approved by ConsumerLab (and see our tests of various Green Teas).

10/01/2019

Microplastics in Tea

A new study found that brewing tea with certain tea bags can release a large amount of microplastics into the liquid. For details, see the Brewing section of our Green Tea Review. Also see our Top Picks among green tea products.

3/06/2015

Green Lipped Mussel Oil Reduces Pain and Inflammation After Exercise

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

10/14/2024

Rooibos Tea?

What are the potential health benefits of rooibos tea, how does it compare to black and green tea, and is it safe? Find out in our article about rooibos tea.

10/21/2024

Benefits of Mullein Tea?

What is mullein tea and does it really reduce coughing, or help ward off the flu or other viruses? Find out in our new article about the potential health benefits and safety of mullein tea.

Also see our Green Tea Review, including our Top Picks.

2/10/2025

Avoiding Microplastics from Tea Bags

Recent studies have raised concerns about microplastics released from plastic tea bags. To avoid plastic tea bags, see the Results table in our Green Tea Review, which lists the type of tea bag (paper, plastic, or mixed) for each of the bagged teas we’ve tested. Also see our Top Picks among brewable teas and a list of tea companies that state they do not use plastic in their tea bags.

2/13/2025

Juice Plus for Cognition?

Did taking Juice Plus+ improve cognitive function in a recent study? Find out in the What It Does section of our Fruits, Veggies, and Other Greens Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among products.

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

3/27/2025

Plastic in Trader Joe's Tea Bags?

We asked Trader Joe's if there is plastic in its green tea bags. See Trader Joe's response as well as those of Bigelow, Numi, Republic of Tea, Tazo, and Twinings.

4/21/2025

Are Plastics in Tea Bags Safe?

A plant-based plastic known as PLA is used in some tea bags, but a new study in animals suggests ingesting PLA might have adverse effects. Get the details in the Concerns With Plastic Tea Bags section of our Green Tea Review, which identifies which tea bags include plastic, and which tea companies state they do not use plastic, and see our Top Picks among brewable teas.

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.

8/25/2023

Supplements for Memory

Find out if ingredients such as apoaequorin (found in Prevagen), ashwagandha, coffee extract, ginger, green tea, phosphatidylserine, or vitamin E, help improve memory and cognition in our article about supplements and foods for memory.

5/03/2014

Does Fish Oil Help During Pregnancy?

A recent study shows that, at age 4, children born to women given DHA-rich fish oil during pregnancy do not fare better cognitively than other children. Other positive effects around the time of birth, however, suggest that supplementation may be worthwhile. For details, as well as our tests of fish oil supplements, see the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>   

6/07/2014

Fish Oil May Reduce Risk of Blood Clots

A study of more than 20,000 people found that those who ate fish several times per week had a reduced risk of venous blood clots, and that getting additional fish oil from supplements reduced the risk even further. Get the details, including our tests of fish oil and other omega-3 supplements in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>   

11/11/2015

Fish Oil Freshness

50% of omega-3 fatty acid supplements recently purchased by researchers in Canada failed tests for freshness, exceeding limits for oxidation. Although the study raises some important issues, it also had significant shortcomings. Get the details in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>

11/21/2015

Genetically-engineered Salmon: How it Compares

This week the FDA approved a genetically-engineered, farmed salmon as safe for consumption — but how do amounts of omega-3's and hormones compare with non-genetically engineered salmon? Get the details in the update to the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>

10/05/2019

L-Theanine for Sleep and Cognition?

Several studies have evaluated whether a single dose of L-theanine (found in green tea) can reduce stress and anxiety. A new study has evaluated the effect of L-theanine when taken daily for several weeks. See the results in the What It Does section of the L-Theanine Supplements Review. Also see our top choices for L-Theanine.

3/18/2017

Tea Drinking Associated with Less Cognitive Decline

A new study found tea drinkers to have significantly less cognitive decline than others. Read the details in the "What It Does" section of the Green Tea Supplements Review (which includes our tests of teas) >>

3/28/2017

Toxin in Algae Supplements

Some Spirulina supplements and many A. flos-aquae supplements were found to be contaminated with microcystin toxin — a liver toxin, according to a recently published study. For details, see the "Concerns and Cautions" section of the Greens and Whole Food Supplements Review >>

7/16/2014

Fish Oil May Prevent Cognitive Decline

A study of older individuals found that cognitive function and brain volume (size) were better preserved among those who reported using fish oil supplements than those who did not. The effect, however, was only seen in certain groups of people. For more about the study, and our tests and comparisons of fish oil supplements, see the updated Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >> 

7/16/2014

DHA for Periodontitis (Inflammation Around Teeth)

A new study found that giving DHA (from algal oil) along with low-dose aspirin led to greater reductions in local inflammation and pocketing around teeth than aspirin plus placebo. For more about the study, including dosage, and our tests and comparisons of algal oil supplements, see the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >> 

6/24/2015

Problem with Too Much Krill Oil

Researchers recently gave overweight men a very large daily amount of krill oil (with a smaller amount of fish oil) with the hope it would improve their insulin sensitivity. Unfortunately, the opposite happened, suggesting that the oil could increase the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Details about the study, including dosage, are found in the "Concerns and Cautions" section of the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>

1/17/2016

Omega-3's and Cognition

Studies in older individuals have shown that omega-3 fatty acid intake from fish oil may improve certain areas of mental functioning and reduce age-related cognitive decline. Benefits have also been found in younger individuals.

A study has been underway which evaluates the effects of krill oil in adolescents with lower educational performance. It was recently reported that baseline testing (before starting krill) of the students showed a positive association between levels of EPA + DHA in their blood and performance on some, but not all, measures of cognitive performance. Get the details in the Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >>

7/10/2014

Don't Be Fooled by "Good Source of Omega-3s" Claim

Over the years, ConsumerLab.com has pointed out that products sometimes claim to provide a percentage of the Daily Value (DV) of omega-3 or -6 fatty acids, even though no such Daily Value has been established. Now, the FDA has prohibited certain related statements on omega-3 supplement and food labels that could mislead consumers into thinking a product provides some percentage of this imaginary amount. Get the details, including what to watch out for on labels, plus our tests of fish oil and other omega-3 fatty acid supplements, in the updated Fish Oil and Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplements Review (Including Krill, Algae, Calamari, Green-lipped Mussel Oil) >> 

1/13/2025

Protein Powder Contamination

Recent tests of protein powders by a separate group showed that certain forms of protein were more likely than others to be contaminated with lead and cadmium. For details, see our Protein Powders Review, which includes our Top Picks for protein powders and shakes.

1/23/2024

Is Protein Powder Ultra-Processed?

All protein powders can be considered ultra-processed food, which has pros and cons, as discussed in our Protein Powders Review. Also see our Top Picks among protein powders and shakes.

4/21/2020

Does Protein Powder Affect Blood Flow?

Does supplementing with whey protein isolate affect blood flow through the aorta and to the brain? Find out what a recent study found in the What It Does section of the Protein Powders & Drinks Review. Also learn what effects protein powder has on building and maintaining muscle and see our Top Picks for protein powders.

1/19/2024

How to Store Protein Powder

Learn how to properly store protein powders in the ConsumerTips section of our Protein Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among protein powders.

12/05/2024

Remineralizing Tooth Powder?

Is Remineralizing Tooth Powder by Living well With Dr. Michelle better than a toothpaste? Find out what research suggests in the Toothpaste vs. tooth powder vs. toothpaste tablets section of our article about finding the best toothpaste, which includes our Top Picks for cavity prevention, desensitization, bleeding gums, whitening surface stains, dry mouth, and bad breath.

1/19/2024

Protein Powder Allergy?

It is possible to be allergic to a protein powder, and some potential allergens need not be disclosed as allergens on labels. Learn more in the Cautions and Concerns section of our Protein Powders & Shakes Review.

6/30/2023

Protein Powder vs. Bar

Is protein better absorbed from a drink made from protein powder or a protein bar? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of our Nutrition Bars Review.

Also see our Top Picks among protein powders and drinks and Top Picks among nutrition bars.

5/28/2025

Powder Sunscreens – Do They Work?

Find out if powder sunscreens (including powder foundations with SPF) are recommended to protect from sun damage in our article about sunscreens.

2/23/2019

Allergic Reactions to Protein Powder

Be aware that allergic reactions to protein powders have recently been reported in people not normally allergic the protein sources of their supplements. For details, see the Concerns and Cautions section of the Protein Powders, Shakes, and Drinks Review. Also see our Top Picks for protein supplements.

7/31/2019

Fresh vs. Powdered Turmeric

When adding turmeric to your meal, do you absorb more curcumin from freshly grated turmeric or turmeric powder? And how do these compare to curcumin powder? Learn the surprising answer in the What to Consider When Buying and Using section of the Turmeric and Curcumin Review. Also see our Top Picks for turmeric and curcumin.

2/03/2018

Lead in Maca Powder

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.