Product Reviews and Information for Post-Surgery Recovery
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Product Review
L-Arginine Supplements Review
Choose the Best L-Arginine Supplement. Find Out Which L-Arginine Supplement Passed CL's Tests.
Product Review
Muscle & Workout Supplements Review (Creatine and Branched-chain Amino Acids)
Do Creatine and BCAAs Really Improve Strength and Recovery?
CL Answer
Which supplements are important after bariatric surgery (i.e., weight loss or stomach-reducing surgery)? Are there any I should avoid?
Find out which supplements may help after weight loss or stomach reducing surgery, including iron and calcium, and which should be avoided.
CL Answer
Do vitamin patches, such as for B12 or multivitamins, really work? How about those from PatchMD?
Do vitamin B12 Patches like PatchMD really work? Can you absorb vitamin B12 through patches?
CL Answer
I do moderate exercise for about an hour a few times a week. Which supplements might help me, and which should I consider avoiding?
Info on what supplements are best for work out & exercise regimens, including electrolytes, protein, creatine, and BCAAs.
CL Answer
What supplements should I stop taking before surgery?
Info on which supplements to avoid before surgery due to increased risk of bleeding or interference with anesthesia.
CL Answer
OmegaXL Review: Does It Really Work for Joint and Muscle Pain?
Read our in-depth review of OmegaXL to see if it really helps with joint and muscle pain.
CL Answer
Do any supplements help prevent or reduce eye floaters?
Find out eye floaters (vitreous floaters) be treated with supplements like vitamin C, lutein, ginkgo, milk thistle, collagen or hyaluronic acid, or with products such as VitreousHealth.
CL Answer
Do any supplements help prevent or improve cataracts?
Find out which supplements may help with cataracts, including selenium and vitamins A, B1, B3, C, and E.
CL Answer
What are the health effects of turkey tail mushroom and is it safe?
Learn about the possible health effects of turkey tail mushroom, including its use as adjuvant treatment for cancer and for boosting immune function, plus get information about possible side effects and find out why ConsumerLab has not yet tested turkey tail products.
CL Answer
Do arnica pills, gels, creams, or sprays reduce bruising, pain, or swelling?
Find out if arnica pills, gels, creams, or sprays can reduce bruising, pain, or swelling, help with varicose veins, or muscle pain after exercise.
CL Answer
What is the best protein supplement for vegetarians and vegans?
Find out which protein supplements for vegetarians and vegans are best, including those made from whey, casein, soy, rice, pea, and hemp. ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
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.
CL Answer
Do any supplements help treat or reduce the pain of plantar fasciitis (heel pain)?
Plantar fasciitis causing heel pain has, in rare cases, been reported as a symptom of vitamin D deficiency. Other supplements that have been proposed to help include vitamin C, zinc, curcumin (from turmeric), bromelain, collagen and glucosamine. Find out what the evidence shows, and what other treatments may help.
CL Answer
Can bloodroot or "black salve" treat skin cancer? Is it safe?
Bloodroot salve and black salve made from bloodroot and zinc - are they effective and safe treatments for skin cancer? ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
Can vitamin C reduce the pain of shingles?
Can taking vitamin C for shingles help reduce pain and post-shingles pain, otherwise known as post-herpetic neuralgia? ConsumerLab.com's answer explains.
CL Answer
Does collagen taken as a supplement help with arthritis? I'm seeing it in products for joint health.
Learn more about collagen supplements, including evidence from clinical studies on arthritis and muscle strength and safety.
CL Answer
What is graviola? Can it really help fight cancer?
Learn more about graviola, if it can really help fight cancer, and its safety.
CL Answer
Are enteric coated supplements better than non-enteric coated ones?
Learn about the pros and cons of enterically coated supplements, including ingredient absorption,safety and price.
News Release
June 08, 2023
Best Muscle and Workout Supplements With Creatine or BCAAs, According to ConsumerLab Tests
White Plains, New York, June 8, 2023 — Creatine supplements are promoted to increase muscle size, strength, and endurance, while supplements with branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are promoted to improve exercise recovery.
News Release
July 20, 2022
Best Electrolyte Drinks for Hydration? Note: Some Contain 20 Times More Sodium Than Others
White Plains, New York, July 20, 2022 — It's important to stay well hydrated, and electrolyte products can help.
News Release
January 15, 2014
Problems Found with the Quality and Labeling of Some "Muscle Enhancement" Supplements -- Review of Creatine and Branched-chain Amino Acid Supplements Published by ConsumerLab.com
White Plains, New York, January 15, 2014 — Athletes often turn to supplements such as creatine and branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) to enhance muscle strength and recovery. These supplements may also benefit people with muscular diseases and those recovering from knee surgery.
Recalls & Warnings
November 30, 2023
Discover Health, LLC Warned for Promoting CBD Products for Cancer, Epilepsy, & More
On November 16, 2023, the FDA issued a Warning Letter to Discover Health, LLC d/b/a Discover CBD and Strain Snobs following a review of the company’s websites that found statements about the company’s Active CBD Oil – Full Spectrum Distillate Cartridge, Active CBD Oil – ...
News Release
October 26, 2010
ConsumerLab.com reports deficiencies in some B-complex supplements and more caffeine than expected in "shot-sized" B vitamin "energy" drinks
White Plains, New York — October 26, 2010 — Tests of B vitamin supplements, including B-complexes and shot-sized energy drinks, revealed problems with the quality of 4 out of 18 products selected for review by independent testing organization ConsumerLab.com.
News Release
May 05, 2010
Tests of protein powders and drinks show some lead contamination but no melamine -- New report covers whey, soy, and rice protein supplements for body building, endurance/recovery, meal-replacment and dieting
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — MAY 5, 2010 — New tests by ConsumerLab.com found most protein powders, shakes and drinks to meet their nutrient claims, but two products were contaminated with lead (6 to 18 mcg per day) and a third product contained four extra grams of sugar.
News Release
August 20, 2007
ConsumerLab tests products in booming nutrition drink market — most deliver what's promised but extra cholesterol found in some — New report covers drinks and powders for endurance/recovery, body building, meal-replacement and dieting
WHITE PLAINS, NEW YORK — AUGUST 20, 2007 — A new report from ConsumerLab.com finds most nutrition powders, shakes and drinks meet their nutrient claims, but three products — two sports drinks and a meal supplement — contained more cholesterol than claimed.
News Release
November 16, 1999
Only three quarters of Ginkgo Biloba supplements contain proper ingredients. ConsumerLab.com posts first of its dietary supplement product tests.
WHITE PLAINS, NY, November 16, 1999 — Consumers have a one out of four chance of buying a Ginkgo Biloba product that may not deliver the ingredients they are seeking. This is the finding of an independent analysis of products conducted by ConsumerLab.
Recalls & Warnings
May 27, 2025
Lactoferrin Supplement Recalled Due to Undeclared Milk
On April 25, 2025, My Life Inc recalled 65 bottles of Lactoferrin as Apolactoferrin 60 vegetarian capsules, 300 mg per serving which were sold in the U.S. because they contain undeclared milk.
Recalls & Warnings
March 22, 2023
Of Concern: The Daily Post and Hiya
White Plains, New York, March 22, 2023 — An "advertorial" for Hiya Kids Daily Multivitamin appearing on the website "The Daily Post" provided misinformation and suggested that ConsumerLab.com recommended this product, which is completely false.
Recalls & Warnings
April 24, 2023
Terry Naturally and EuroMedica B Vitamins Recalled Due to Allergen Risk
On April 21, 2023, EuroPharma, Inc. issued a voluntary recall of 4 lots of its Terry Naturally BioActive Vitamin B 60 count and 3 lots of its EuroMedica Active B Complex 60 count products due to undeclared milk. No illnesses have been reported to date.
Recalls & Warnings
May 22, 2023
Nature’s Energy Children’s Colostrum Recalled Due to Undeclared Milk
On May 18, 2023, Nature’s Energy issued a recall of six lots of Children’s Chewable Colostrum products due to undeclared milk.
Recalls & Warnings
December 01, 2021
FDA Warns Seller of Saffron Supplements
On November 18th, 2021, the FDA issued a warning letter to Saffron Health Sciences following a review of the company's website, social media, and Amazon product listings, which found statements made about the company's products Crocin Rich, Crocin Rich II, and Crocin Rich ...
Recalls & Warnings
July 14, 2022
FDA Warns Company Selling Supplements with Dangerous Steroid-like Substances
On July 6, 2022, the FDA issued a warning letter to Elite Supplement Center LLC and Elite Supplement Training Facility LLC for selling the following products labeled as containing steroid-like substances known as selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs), which are not permitted in dietary ...
Recalls & Warnings
January 04, 2014
Beware of Supplements Claiming to Treat Brain Injury, FDA Warns
On December 31, 2013, the FDA warned consumers to avoid dietary supplements promoted to prevent, treat or cure concussions and other traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
Recalls & Warnings
October 08, 2015
FDA Warns Seller of Omega-3 "Concussion" Supplement for Drug Claims
On October 1, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to MPH Nutrition, LLC, following a review of the company's website which found statements made about Re:Mind Recover, a supplement promoted for recovery from concussions, to be drug claims which are not permitted for supplements.
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
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.
Recalls & Warnings
December 15, 2020
FDA Warns Seller of Evening Primrose Oil and Beta Glucan
On December 2, 2020, the FDA issued a warning letter to Smoky Mountain Naturals, LLC following a review of the company's website, which found statements made about the company's products Evening Primrose Oil and Beta Glucan to be drug claims.
Recalls & Warnings
March 05, 2020
Protein Powder Recalled Due to Undeclared Milk
On March 3, 2020, New Capstone, Inc. issued a recall of ReStructure Vanilla Protein Powder because it may contain undeclared milk.
Recalls & Warnings
October 05, 2019
Advocare to Pay $150 Million to Settle Charges of Operating a Pyramid Scheme
AdvoCare International, the marketing company that sells Spark energy drink, as well as other nutrition products and supplements, has agreed to settle FTC charges that it operated an illegal pyramid scheme.
Recalls & Warnings
July 28, 2020
Iron Supplements Recalled Due to Undeclared Allergen
Between July 23 and 24, 2020, two companies issued recalls of iron supplements because they may contain undeclared milk.
Recalls & Warnings
April 09, 2018
Muscle and Recovery Supplements Recalled Due to Undeclared Milk
On April 6, 2018, AdvoCare International issued a recall of two lots of Muscle Strength and four lots of Nighttime Recovery dietary supplements because they may contain undeclared milk.
Recalls & Warnings
December 26, 2017
Seller of Fish Oil, Vitamin D, Whey Protein and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations
On December 19, 2017, the FDA issued a warning letter to Maine Natural Health, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
January 30, 2013
Seller of Omega-3 and Emu Oil Supplements Warned For Drug Claims, Misbranding
On November 19, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Emu Products & Management, Inc. after a review of the company's website found statements that promoted the dietary supplements Multi-Omega Gel Caps, Recovery Gel Caps, ARP Gel Caps and the topical skin products Extreme Cryo Gel, F.A.C.E.
Recalls & Warnings
September 10, 2012
Maker of Concussion Recovery Supplement Warned For Making Drug Claims
On August 28, 2012, the FDA issued a warning letter to Trinity Sports Group, Inc. after a review of the company's websites found statements about Neuro Impact Concussion Response Formula constituted drug claims not permitted on supplements.
Recalls & Warnings
September 13, 2013
Metagenics Warned For Misbranding of Medical Foods and Drug Claims
On August 13, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Metagenics, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
March 10, 2015
Maker of Magnesium, Calcium, Zinc, B Vitamins and More Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims
On January 8, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Complete H2O Minerals, following a facility inspection which found the company's products, including Sulfur Concentrate, Copper, Extra Strength Copper, Extra Strength Magnesium, Extra Strength Zinc, Platinum, Gold, Indium, Molybdenum, ...
Recalls & Warnings
June 27, 2017
Seller of Alpha Lipoic Acid, Cinnamon Supplements and More Warned For Manufacturing Violations
On May 1, 2017 the FDA issued a warning letter to Nature's Vision, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
February 13, 2019
Supplements Promoted for Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Sell "False Hope," Warns FDA
On February 11, 2019, the FDA warned consumers to beware supplements promoted to prevent or treat Alzheimer's disease or dementia.
Recalls & Warnings
November 28, 2014
Seller of Herbal Extracts Warned for Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims
On November 3, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Avena Botanicals, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
July 06, 2018
Prescript-Assist Probiotic Recall Expanded
On July 6, 2018, LL's Magnetic Clay, Inc., expanded its original recall of Prescript-Assist, a "broad spectrum probiotic and prebiotic" supplement, because it may contain undeclared almonds, crustaceans, dairy, casein, eggs, and peanuts.
Recalls & Warnings
June 29, 2018
Prescript-Assist Probiotic Recalled
On June 29, 2018, LL's Magnetic Clay, Inc., issued a recall of certain lots of Prescript-Assist, a "broad spectrum probiotic and prebiotic" supplement, because they may contain undeclared almonds, crustaceans, dairy, casein, eggs, and peanuts.
Recalls & Warnings
February 04, 2013
Protein Supplement Recalled Due To Undeclared Soy and Milk
On January 30, 2013, R-Kane Products, Inc. issued a recall of Z PRO HIGH PROTEIN SUPPLEMENT after an FDA inspection found the potential allergens soy and milk were not listed on individual packet labels of the supplement.
Recalls & Warnings
December 02, 2005
Steroids Detected In Supplement
On November 30, 2005, The Washington Post reported that a dietary supplement marketed to fitness and health enthusiasts on the Internet and in body-building shops contains anabolic steroids, according to a prominent researcher.
Recalls & Warnings
August 03, 2018
Vanilla Almond Breeze Almond Milk Recalled
On August 2, 2018, HP Hood LLC issued a recall of half-gallon (1.89 L) cartons of refridgerated Vanilla Almond Breeze almond milk because the product may contain milk, an allergen not listed on the label.
Recalls & Warnings
April 29, 2010
Vitamin D Overload in Supplement Sickens Users
On April 28, 2010, the New York Post reported that Gary Null, a nutrition promoter, was apparently sickened by his own product, Gary Null's Ultimate Power Meal, due to a manufacturing error that caused an excessive amount of vitamin D to occur in the product.
Recalls & Warnings
April 29, 2014
Seller of B Vitamins, CoQ10, Amino Acids and Other Supplements Warned for Manufacturing Violations and Drug Claims
On April 1, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Bio-Recovery, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
February 13, 2014
Maker of Cholesterol and Workout Supplements Warned For Manufacturing Violations, Drug Claims and Unapproved Ingredient
On January 31, 2014, the FDA issued a warning letter to Exclusive Supplements Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
January 04, 2014
Smoking Cessation and Anti-Inflammatory Supplements Contain Unapproved Ingredient
On December 13, 2013, the FDA issued a warning letter to Star Scientific, Inc. after the agency noted that the company's smoking cessation supplement CigRx and anti-inflammatory supplement Anatabloc contain anatabine, a chemical not currently allowed in dietary supplements.
Recalls & Warnings
November 18, 2015
Seller of "Hangover" Supplement Warned for Manufacturing Violations & Drug Claims
On September 17, 2015, the FDA issued a warning letter to Life Support Development Ltd, following a facility inspection which found the company's product, including Life Support Hangover Relief to be adulterated because they prepared, packed, or held under conditions that violate ...
Recalls & Warnings
August 04, 2015
Whey, Casein and Colostrum Products Recalled
On August 3, 2015, Nutrition Resource Services, Inc. issued a voluntary recall of certain Just Be Natural (JBN) and Gifted Nutrition powders containing whey concentrate, whey isolate, casein, and colostrum because they contain undeclared milk.
Recalls & Warnings
May 05, 2003
FDA Reports False Claims by Maker of HGH Supplement
On April 30, 2003, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) announced that Nature's Youth, LLC, of Centerville, Mass., has completed its voluntarily destruction of approximately 5700 boxes (each containing a 30-day supply) of its misbranded product, "Nature's Youth hGH.
Recalls & Warnings
January 27, 2003
FTC Charges Dr. Clark and Related Companies with Making Unsubstantiated Health Claims
The Federal Trade Commission has charged a Switzerland-based company and its U.S. counterpart with making numerous unsubstantiated efficacy claims for a variety of dietary supplements and devices that they sell on the Internet.
Recalls & Warnings
June 15, 2003
FTC Alleges "Heartbar" Made Deceptive Claims About Effectiveness
On June 12, 2003, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced that Unither Pharma, Inc. and United Therapeutics Corporation have agreed to settle FTC charges that they made deceptive claims in advertising for their HeartBar product.
Recalls & Warnings
November 28, 2017
Seven Arrested for Selling Fake Olive Oil in Greece
On November 26, 2017, Greek police arrested and charged seven individuals for fraudulently selling large quantities of sunflower oil as olive oil, as reported in the National Post.
Recalls & Warnings
April 19, 2007
Recall of Another Sex Enhancement Supplement
On April 17, 2007 the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) website posted an announcement that Jen-On Herbal Science International, Inc. is conducting a voluntary nationwide recall of the company's supplement product sold under the name H S Joy of Love. Jen-On Herbal Science International, Inc.
Recalls & Warnings
March 30, 2011
More Protein Supplements Recalled for Salmonella Risk
On March 29, the U.S.
