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.

12/09/2012

Extra Protein Improves Strength

Whether you are trying to add muscle or just maintain it, a new report suggests that additional protein leads to further gains from resistance-type training. The analysis of 22 clinical studies shows that both young and old individuals who received additional protein from supplements or high-protein foods experienced significantly greater increases in muscle mass and strength than those not getting additional protein. Get the details, as well as our tests and reviews of protein powders and drinks, in the updated Protein Powders and Drinks Review (Including Sports, Nutrition, and Diet Products). More >>

11/18/2012

Caution with Energy Drinks

The FDA has released reports showing deaths and other serious adverse events associated with the use of energy drinks like 5-hour Energy. As ConsumerLab.com reported in September, these small "shot" drinks can pack more caffeine than 2 cups of regular coffee. While the caffeine can keep you alert, there are a number of concerns to bear in mind and suggestions on how to more safely use these drinks. Learn more in the update to our B Vitamins and Energy Drinks Review. More >>

11/01/2022

Protein & Nutrition Bars -- Watch Out for Weight Gain

Protein and nutrition bars can be a convenient way to get protein, fiber, and other nutrients, but they can lead to weight gain according to a recent study. The details are in our Protein and Nutrition Bars Review.

11/24/2015

Cocoa for Wrinkles?

A study in older women found that drinking a high-flavanol cocoa drink each day increased skin elasticity. And while wrinkles deepened among those drinking a placebo, they stayed stable in the cocoa-drinking group. For details about the amount of cocoa consumed (and its flavanol content), as well as our tests of flavanols (and contaminants) in popular cocoa powders and chocolates, see the Cocoa Powders, Dark Chocolate, Extracts, Nibs, & Supplements Review >>

11/17/2014

Keep Energy Drinks Away from Kids

It was reported this week that 40% of calls to poison centers for "energy drink exposure" involved children under age 6, many of whom experienced serious side effects. For more about this and other concerns with energy drinks, as well as our test results for popular products, see the B Vitamins & Energy Drinks Review >> 

2/16/2019

Energy Drinks & Aggression

Are people who frequently consume energy drinks (like 5-hour Energy) more likely to be aggressive or have mental health problems? Learn what a new study found, and learn more about the pros and cons of energy drinks in the Energy Drinks section of the B Vitamin Supplements Review.

6/21/2022

Drinking Water & PFAS

The EPA indicated last week that it intends to slash the amount of PFAS that can safely be in drinking water. Get the details in the Drinking Water section of our CL Answer about PFAS. Also see our information about water filters to remove PFAS.

2/09/2024

Sweeteners for Cold Drinks

If you're trying to avoid sugar, see our top 2 sweeteners for cold drinks in our article about sugar substitutes, which also includes our top choices for hot drinks and for baking.

2/10/2021

Energy Drinks and Blood Pressure

Which people are more likely to have cardiovascular side effects from energy drinks? Find out what a new study showed in the Energy Drinks & Shots section of our B Vitamins Supplements Review.

7/21/2013

Soy Protein to Prevent Prostate Cancer?

Prostate cancer occurs less frequently in parts of the world where people eat more soy. So researchers recently gave a soy protein drink, or a placebo drink, to men who previously had prostate cancer to see if it reduced the risk of the cancer recurring. Learn what they found in the updated Protein Powders and Drinks Review >>

10/08/2014

Energy Drinks: Athletic Performance & Side Effects

A recent study found that a caffeinated energy drink improved athletes' self-perceived muscle power, but also increased insomnia and nervousness. Get the details in the update to the B Vitamin Supplements and Energy Drinks Review >> 

4/19/2024

How to Avoid Counterfeit Supplements: Deva Nutrition

We've added information about how to safely purchase Deva Nutrition products. Get the details for Deva, and 62 other popular supplement brands, in our article: Where to Safely Buy Real Vitamins and Supplements.

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 >>

5/27/2013

Probiotic Reduces Abdominal Fat

A study found that giving overweight people a strain of probiotic as part of a milk drink led to reductions in abdominal fat over 12 weeks. Those receiving the drink without the probiotic had no improvement. Get details in the updated Probiotic Supplements 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.

8/19/2015

Cocoa Increases Blood Flow to Brain

A small study found that drinking a cocoa drink high in flavanols significantly increased blood flow to the brain, which, the researchers propose, might have potential cognitive benefits. Get the details, including dosage, plus more about cocoa and memory, and our tests of popular products, in the Cocoa Supplements and Dark Chocolate Review >>

7/12/2014

Whey Protein for Blood Sugar Control?

Drinking a whey protein shake before a meal improves blood sugar and insulin response in men and women with type 2 diabetes, according to a new, preliminary study. Get more details, plus our tests of protein supplements, in the updated Protein Powders and Drinks Review >>

12/14/2017

Danger from Too Much Vitamin B6

A women who was consuming large amounts of an energy drink as well as a B-vitamin complex developed symptoms of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) toxicity (which may not be reversible), according to a recent report. Get the details in the "B6" section of B Vitamin Supplements Review >>

CL has long warned that energy drinks and shots often contain large amounts of B6 and other B vitamins.

8/27/2019

Whey Protein for Muscle Gain and Fat Loss?

Did drinking whey protein after resistance exercise help prevent muscle loss and reduce body fat in obese women? See what a recent study found in the Building and maintaining muscle section of the Protein Powders, Shakes and Drinks Review. Also see our Top Picks for protein powders and shakes.

9/04/2020

Coffee and Cholesterol

Drinking large amounts of coffee daily can increase cholesterol levels, according to a recent analysis. Get the details in our answer to the question: Is drinking coffee good or bad for heart health?

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 >> 

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.

3/21/2020

When to Eat Protein

Some evidence indicates that it is best to distribute protein across meals throughout the day to maximize protein production in muscle. A recent study suggests that there is one meal when protein intake could be higher for nearly everyone, and there is another meal when older people particularly fall short. For details see the When to Take section of the Protein Powder and Drinks Review. Also see our Top Picks for protein powders and drinks.

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.)

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.

10/06/2020

Can Whey Protein Control Hunger?

Can drinking a whey protein shake help control hunger in people who are overweight? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of our Protein Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among protein powders, shakes and drinks.

12/07/2021

Can Warm Coffee Trigger Burning Mouth Syndrome?

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

1/16/2021

Coffee and Prostate Cancer Risk

Is drinking coffee associated with prostate cancer risk? Find out what a recent study suggests in our updated answer to the question: Does drinking coffee increase or decrease the risk of cancer? Can it slow cancer progression?

5/01/2021

Does Kefir Lower Cholesterol?

Can drinking kefir that contains probiotics, decrease LDL cholesterol or triglyceride levels in people with metabolic syndrome? See what a new study found the Cholesterol-Lowering section of our Probiotic Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among probiotic supplements and drinks.

7/22/2022

Electrolytes for Hangovers?

Electrolyte drinks are often recommended to reduce hangover symptoms after drinking alcohol, but do they really help? Find out in our new answer to the question: Do electrolyte supplements, like Pedialyte, help with hangovers?

3/04/2022

Protein Shake for Weight Management?

Can drinking a protein and fiber shake improve weight management in overweight people when used along with diet and exercise? Find out what a recent study found in the Weight management section of our Protein Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among protein powders, shakes and drinks.

11/18/2022

Is Chamomile Tea Safe?

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

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.

4/11/2023

PFAS in Drinking Water

The EPA recently proposed federal limits on PFAS, chemicals with potentially negative health effects, in drinking water. Get the details in our updated answer to the question: How can I avoid PFAS in dental floss, food, water, and other products?

4/16/2024

PFAS Toxins in Drinking Water

Separately, the EPA recently finalized limits on PFAS in drinking water, but this gives water districts until 2029 to take corrective action. Learn more and see our Top Pick water filter pitcher for removing PFAS.

9/19/2023

Protein After Hospitalization

Does a protein drink like Ensure Protein help with recovery after hospitalization? See what a study showed in the Recovery section of our Protein Review, which includes our Top Picks among protein powders and drinks.

8/18/2023

Brand Change at Walgreens

Walgreens has rebranded its "Finest Nutrition" supplements. Get the details in our B Vitamins Review.

7/25/2023

Tooth Erosion & Foods

Find out which foods and drinks are associated with tooth erosion in our article about toothpastes and other dental products.

8/15/2023

Coffee & Bone Health

Does drinking coffee decrease bone density or worsen symptoms of arthritis? Find out in our article about coffee and bone health.

4/28/2020

Early Sign of Thiamin Deficiency

Thiamin (vitamin B1) deficiency can cause lasting neurologic damage and affect heart function. It can occur with poor nutrition and as a result of taking certain diuretics. A recent case highlighted an early sign of thiamin deficiency that involves the eyes. We've added this information to the Thiamin section of the B Vitamin Supplements Review. Also see our Top Pick for thiamin and B complexes that contain thiamin. You can also get thiamin from a good multivitamin.

10/17/2023

Avoiding Counterfeits: 5 Brands Added

We've added information about how to purchase authentic products from Ancient Nutrition, Double Wood, KAL, Kyolic, and Twinlab to our article How to Avoid Buying Counterfeit Vitamins and Supplements, which now covers 27 brands.

12/08/2023

Calcium from Plant Milks?

There is growing research showing that the calcium in some plant-based milks is not absorbed quite as well as the calcium in cow’s milk. Learn more in the Key Differences with Plant-based Milks section of our Plant-Based-Milks Review, which includes our Top Picks for nutrition and for taste.

11/03/2023

Avoiding Counterfeits: 5 Brands Added

We've added information about Bluebonnet Nutrition, Culturelle, GNC, New Chapter, and One A Day to our article Where to Safely Buy Real Vitamins and Supplements. The article now covers 44 brands.

1/10/2023

More Vitamin D in Cereals

Be aware that more vitamin D can now be added to breakfast cereals and nutrition bars based on a recent FDA ruling. Get the details in the What to Consider When Buying section of our Vitamin D Supplements Review.

4/14/2023

Many Prenatal Multis Found Lacking

As ConsumerLab has pointed out in the past, many prenatal supplements don't contain the right amounts of key ingredients. A recent analysis by nutrition experts of over 400 products on the market in the U.S. came to the same conclusion. Get the details in our Multivitamin/Multimineral Supplements Review, which includes our Top Pick prenatal multivitamin as well as our Top Pick overall multi and Top Picks by age and gender.

6/14/2022

Zinc Carnosine: A Better Zinc Source?

Is zinc carnosine more bioavailable than other forms of zinc? Find out what an expert nutrition panel recently concluded in our updated CL Answer about zinc carnosine.

5/23/2023

Concern With Kombucha?

A recent study suggests a dental concern with drinking kombucha. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Probiotics Supplements Review.

Also see our Top Picks among probiotic supplements.

6/27/2023

Should you worry about fluoridated drinking water?

A recent study showed an increase in dental fluorosis in children in areas with fluoridated water. Should you be concerned? Learn more in the Fluoride section our article about toothpaste and other dental products.

5/05/2023

Do Water Filter Pitchers Really Remove PFAS?

In many parts of the U.S., drinking water exceeds proposed limits for potentially toxic PFAS compounds. How well do water filter pitchers remove PFAS? Find out in the PFAS section of our Water Filter Pitchers Review.

Also see our Top Picks for water filter pitchers.

5/09/2023

Filtering Out PFAS

We’ve added information about an add-on to Brita filters that claims to remove potentially dangerous PFAS from drinking water. See the PFAS section of our Water Filter Pitchers Review.

Also see our Top Picks among water filter pitchers.

4/04/2023

Coffee’s Effects on Heart Rhythm, Sleep

Does drinking caffeinated coffee cause heart palpitations, or reduce sleep? See what a recent study found in our updated article about coffee and heart health.

11/08/2022

Potassium Added to Starbucks Coffee?

A competitor of Starbucks claims that Starbucks is adding potassium to some of its coffee. Get the details obtained by ConsumerLab in our article: Is drinking coffee good or bad for heart health?

10/11/2022

Removing Radium From Water?

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

1/06/2023

Coffee, Milk, and Kidney Stones

Does drinking coffee, or adding milk to it, increase the risk of kidney stones? Find out in our CL Answer about foods, supplements, and kidney stone risk.

2/28/2023

Kombucha for Blood Sugar?

Drinking kombucha (a fermented beverage containing probiotics) with a high-carb meal may blunt the rise in blood sugar after the meal, according to a recent study. Get the details in the What It Does section of our Probiotic Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among products.

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

2/23/2022

Coffee and Heart Health

Drinking moderate amounts of one type of coffee, but not another, was linked to a reduced risk of heart attack and stroke in a recent analysis. Get the details in our updated article about Coffee and Health.

5/10/2022

Whey Protein & Blood Pressure

Older people may experience a dip in blood pressure after consuming whey protein, according to a recent study. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Protein Powders, Shakes, and Drinks Review.

3/04/2022

Whey Protein From a Lab

Laboratory-produced whey protein is now hitting the market. How does it differ from milk-based whey protein? Find out in the ConsumerTips section of our Protein Supplements Review. Also, see our Top Picks among protein powders, shakes and drinks.

4/07/2022

Pickle Juice for Muscle Cramps?

Can drinking pickle juice help relieve muscle cramps and are there safety concerns? Find out in our updated article about Supplements for Muscle Cramps.

8/16/2022

Water for Dry Eye?

Does drinking extra water help with dry eye? Find out in our updated article about dry eye -- which includes information about supplements and lifestyle habits than can help.

11/14/2023

Aluminum Exposure from Coffee?

Does drinking coffee made from aluminum capsules or in aluminum pots significantly increase aluminum exposure? Find out what research suggests in the Other Concerns with Coffee section of our article about coffee.

11/23/2023

Headache, Alcohol, and Quercetin

Quercetin may put one at risk for headache and facial flushing when drinking alcohol, according to recent research. Quercetin is also known to interact with many prescription drugs. See the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Quercetin and Rutin Supplements Review.

12/15/2023

Cricket Protein and Kidneys

Cricket protein may be more environmentally friendly than animal sources of protein, but people with impaired kidney function may want to avoid consuming large amounts. Learn why in the Cautions and Concerns section of our Protein Supplements Review. Also see what we found when we tested cricket powders, and see our Top Picks for whey, soy, and other protein shakes and drinks.

1/12/2024

L-Theanine for Fatigue?

Did drinking a beverage containing L-theanine, with or without CBD, reduce fatigue? See what a recent study showed in the Stress, sleep and cognition section of our L-Theanine Review, which includes our Top Picks for L-theanine.

Also see: Which supplements help to improve energy and decrease fatigue?

1/19/2024

Risks with Plant-Based Milks for Young Children

Learn why young children should not exclusively drink plant-based milk instead of dairy milk in the Concerns and Cautions section of our Plant-Based Milk Review, which includes our Top Picks among plant-based milks.

1/23/2024

Chamomile and Bleeding Risk?

Does drinking chamomile tea increase bleeding risk? Find out in the chamomile section of our article about supplements for sleep.

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.

1/27/2024

Licorice & Blood Pressure

Eating black licorice, or drinking tea that contains it, can increase blood pressure and cause heart issues. Get the latest details in our article about licorice.

1/30/2024

Ulcerative Colitis

Find out if drinking coconut water or taking psyllium helped people with active ulcerative colitis in recent studies. Also see our Top Picks among coconut waters and psyllium supplements.

2/02/2024

Lower Blood Sugar with Aloe?

Does drinking aloe juice right after a high-fat meal reduce spikes in blood sugar and blood fat levels? Find out what a recent study showed in the What It Does section of our Aloe Vera Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks for aloe.

9/22/2023

Cacao Flavanols for Mood?

Did drinking a beverage containing cacao flavanols improve mood in a recent study? Find out in the Mood and Stress section of our Dark Chocolates and Cocoa Powder Review, which includes our Top Picks for dark chocolate and cocoas.

8/11/2023

Kombucha for Diabetes?

Does drinking kombucha help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes? Find out what a recent study showed in the Kombucha section of our Probiotic Supplements Review.

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

6/30/2023

Fluoride Supplement?

Should people who drink water that has little fluoride take a fluoride supplement? Find out in the Fluoride section of our CL Answer about toothpaste and other dental products.

8/22/2023

Brita Lawsuit

A recently filed lawsuit alleges that Brita products do not live up to claims of removing hazardous contaminants from drinking water. Learn more and ConsumerLab’s take on the suit in our Water Filter Pitchers Review, which includes our Top Picks among products.

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.

2/06/2024

Coffee for Brain Health?

Find out if drinking coffee improves cognitive function and memory, affects the risk of Alzheimer's disease, and more in our article about the brain health benefits of coffee.

2/09/2024

Coffee & Blood Pressure

Does drinking regular coffee increase blood pressure in people taking blood pressure-lowering medication? See what a recent study showed in our article about coffee and heart health.

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.

3/08/2024

Sweeteners and the Heart?

Is there a higher risk of atrial fibrillation in people who drink artificially sweetened beverages? Find out what a recent study found in our article about sugar substitutes.

3/15/2024

Coffee and Brain Bleed?

Does drinking coffee increase the risk of brain bleeds? Find out what research suggests in our article about coffee and heart health.

11/11/2021

Sleep, Drink, and COVID Hospitalization Risk

Lack of sleep and frequent consumption of certain beverages may each increase the risk of being hospitalized if you get COVID-19, according to a recent study. Get the details in our updated answer to the question: How are you staying healthy during the coronavirus pandemic?

8/10/2021

Coffee and Arterial Stiffness

Does drinking coffee increase arterial stiffness, a predictor of heart disease? Find out what research shows in our updated answer about Coffee and Heart Health.

12/17/2021

Lemon Juice and Kidney Stones

Drinking lemon juice daily may help prevent kidney stones but there is a downside, according to a recent, two-year study. Get the details in our updated answer about Juices That May Reduce Kidney Stone Risk.

12/21/2021

Apple Cider Vinegar for Better Mood?

Can drinking apple cider vinegar or taking an apple cider vinegar tablet improve mood? See what a new study found in the What It Does section of our Apple Cider Vinegar Review. See our Top Picks for apple cider vinegar.

10/15/2021

How Coffee Helps the Heart

A recent study may help explain how moderate coffee consumption reduces the risk of heart disease. Get the details in our updated answer to the question: Is drinking coffee good or bad for heart health?

10/29/2021

More Toothpaste Tips

Find out if you need fluoride in toothpaste if you already get it from your drinking water or other sources, if people prone to tooth sensitivity should avoid tartar control toothpaste, and whether xylitol in toothpaste helps prevent cavities.

7/31/2021

Coffee And Fatty Liver Disease?

Can drinking coffee help prevent fatty liver disease and liver fibrosis (scarring)? Find out what research suggests in our CL Answer about supplements and diets for fatty liver disease.

8/03/2021

Coffee and Dementia?

Can drinking coffee increase or decrease the risk of dementia? A cause-and-effect relationship has not been established but some striking associations were recently found based on consumption levels. We've added the details to the Safety section of our article about Coffee and Heart Health.

3/17/2021

Does Coffee Consumption Lower Cardiovascular Risk, or Is It the Other Way Around?

New study results may undermine the association between moderate coffee consumption and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Find out in our updated answer to the question: Is drinking coffee good or bad for heart health?

5/15/2021

Misleading Kefir Claims

Recent testing of several popular kefir beverages in the U.S. found that none contained their claimed amount of live probiotic cells -- although a popular yogurt did. See the results, by brand, in the Kefir section of our Probiotic Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks among probiotic supplements and drinks.

5/22/2021

Possible Toxin in Straws

Potentially toxic compounds known as PFAS occur in some brands of dental floss and a variety of other products. A new report indicates that PFAS are also in certain drinking straws. Find out more.

6/27/2021

Whey vs Rice and Potato Protein

Whey, rice and potato proteins were found to have different effects on blood sugar and insulin levels in a recent study. Find out how they differ. You can also learn more about these and other protein sources in the ConsumerTips section of our Protein Powders, Shakes and Drinks Review. Also see our Top Picks among protein powders.

1/11/2022

Soy Versus Whey Protein

Can soy protein help increase muscle mass and strength as well as the same amount of whey protein? See what a recent study showed in the Soy section of our Protein Powders and Drinks Review, which includes comparisons of whey, casein, soy, rice, pea and other forms of protein. Also see our Top Picks among protein supplements.

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.

10/27/2020

Protein During Dialysis?

People on dialysis (for kidney failure) may lose protein, but do all dialysis patients benefit from protein supplementation? Find out what studies are showing in the What It Does section of our Protein Supplements Review. Also see our Top Picks for protein powders, shakes and drinks.

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.

1/07/2020

When to Eat Protein

The timing of protein intake during the day was associated with greater reductions in abdominal fat and BMI (body mass index) among people engaged in exercise programs in a recent study. The timing of protein intake can also improve the likelihood of muscular benefits. For details, see the When to Take section of the Protein Powders and Drinks Review. Also see our Top Picks among protein products.

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.

9/28/2019

Who's Not Getting Enough Protein?

A recent study among older Americans identified groups that are not getting enough protein. Find out who's not getting enough protein in the What It Does section of the Protein Powders and Drinks Review. Also see our Top Picks among protein products.

10/05/2019

Extra Protein During Chemotherapy?

Is taking extra whey protein during chemotherapy helpful to malnourished cancer patients? Learn what a study found in the What It Does section of the Protein Powders, Shakes, and Drinks Review. Also see our Top Picks among protein powders.

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.

2/29/2020

Breast Cancer & Milk Consumption

Is drinking milk – dairy or soy – associated with breast cancer risk? Find out what a new study found in our answer to the following question: Are there vitamins or supplements that can reduce my risk of breast cancer? Do any increase cancer risk?

7/17/2018

Too Much Coconut Water?

Drinking too much coconut water can be dangerous, particularly for certain people. Get the details in the Concerns and Cautions section of the Coconut Waters Review. (Also see our tests and comparisons of popular coconut waters.)

8/18/2018

Extra Protein Can Help Older People

Increasing protein intake can help older people maintain and build muscle — but it's not that simple. Get the details, and read about the latest studies, in the Building and maintaining muscle mass section of the Protein Supplements Review. (Also see our Top Picks among protein shakes and drinks).

10/27/2015

Whey Protein and Muscle

As noted in our Protein Review, many studies show that extra protein can help build more muscle and increase strength when resistance training. But, as shown in a recent study in postmenopausal women, just eating extra protein without exercise provides no benefit. Get the details in the Protein Powders and Drinks Review >>

11/07/2015

Triglyceride-Lowering with a Probiotic

Studies with probiotics have demonstrated modest lowering of LDL ("bad") cholesterol, but the evidence has been mixed regarding triglycerides. A recent study in which a probiotic was added to a kefir drink showed a 17% reduction in triglycerides along with a modest reduction in LDL — effects not seen with the kefir alone. Details are found in the Probiotics and Kefirs Review >>

7/02/2017

Extra Protein Enhances Training

Even among untrained, middle-aged men, adding protein supplementation to resistance training leads to greater improvements in lean body mass (i.e., more muscle) than the training alone, according to a new study. Find out how much protein helped in the "What It Does" section of the Protein Supplements Review. The Review includes our test-based, quality ratings and comparisons of popular protein powders and drinks.

1/05/2019

Is Protein Best Before or After a Meal?

A new study showed that the timing of protein supplementation around a meal can determine the effect on blood sugar in people with insulin resistance. Find out the best timing in the update to the Protein Powders, Drinks, and Shakes Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products.)

5/15/2018

Too Much Vitamin B6

Be aware that you can get too much vitamin B6 from supplements and energy drinks. This can result in nerve damage and other adverse effects, as has been recently reported. For details, see the B6 section of the B Vitamin Supplements Review.

2/02/2019

Whey Protein When Bedridden?

Does substituting whey protein for other sources of protein help bedridden people retain muscle mass and strength? Find out what a new study showed in the What It Does section of the Protein Powders & Drinks Review. Also see our Top Picks for protein powders.

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.

12/09/2018

When to Take Protein

Supplementing with protein can increase muscle mass and strength more than resistance exercise alone, but the timing of protein consumption can make a difference if you are also trying to improve metabolism and reduce body fat. Get the details and find out what a new study showed in the What It Does section of the Protein Powders, Shakes & Drinks Review. (Also see our Top Picks among products).

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.

10/11/2019

Risk from Reusing Plastic Water Bottles

Repeatedly opening and closing plastic water bottles can pose a risk, according to a new study. Get the details in our updated answer to the question: Is it true that there are bits of plastic in drinking water and specialty salts? How concerned should I be?

3/20/2018

Does Extra Protein Help?

What effect does giving older men a daily protein supplement and/or a weekly testosterone shot have? Find out in the What It Does section of the Protein Powders, Shakes, and Drinks Review. The section also provides information about the effects of extra protein in other populations. (Also see our Top Picks among protein supplements.)

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.

5/31/2019

Licorice Tea Caution

Be careful with licorice tea because it can cause serious side effects, as recently happened to a man who drank one to two cups daily. Get more details in our answer about licorice tea.

6/08/2019

Avoiding Microplastics in Bottled Water

There is increasing evidence of microplastics appearing in water -- including a study of popular bottled water brands. See the results in our answer to the question: Is it true that there are bits of plastic in drinking water and specialty salts? How concerned should I be?

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.

7/06/2019

Casein Peptides for Better Sleep?

People with difficulty sleeping were given a casein hydrolysate to see if it would help them sleep. Find out if it worked in the Casein section of the Protein Powders, Drinks and Shakes Review. Also see our Top Picks among casein and other protein products.

7/31/2019

Beetroot Juice for Raynaud's?

Does drinking beetroot juice daily reduce symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon? Learn what a recent study found in our answer to the question: Which supplements help with Raynaud's phenomenon?

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) >>

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) >>

7/19/2014

High-Dose Niacin with Statins Not Worth It

Further evidence was published this week showing that the addition of high-dose niacin (vitamin B-3) to cholesterol-lowering treatment with statin drugs provides no worthwhile benefit and appears to increase the risk of adverse side events. For details, see the Review of B Vitamin Supplements and Energy Drinks >> 

8/27/2017

Does Lithium Prevent Dementia?

A new study found the risk of developing dementia to be significantly lower in areas with higher levels of lithium in the drinking water. This finding is consistent with a study that found low-dose lithium to stabilize patients with Alzheimer's disease. Details about these studies are in the "What It Does" section of the Low-Dose Supplements Review, which includes our Top Picks among low-dose lithium supplements.

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 >>

2/10/2016

Extra Protein Helps During Exercise & Dieting

A study among obese young men found that giving extra protein during a period of dieting and intense exercise caused them to lose more fat and gain more muscle than men to whom additional protein was not provided. Several other recent studies in both young and old individuals have shown significant benefits from additional protein – but only when combined with exercise. Get the details in the Protein Powders and Drinks Review >>

12/16/2017

Tea & Iron Absorption

A surprising number of foods and beverages, including tea, can interfere with the absorption of iron. When you drink your tea can make a big difference, according to a new study. Get the details in the Iron Supplements 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.

4/29/2018

When to Take Protein

When is the best time of day to take a protein supplement if you want to gain muscle but lose fat? An analysis of over 30 clinical studies involving protein supplementation and resistance exercise recently addressed this question. Get the answer and details in the ConsumerTips section of the Protein Powders, Shakes and Drinks Review. (Also see our Top Picks among protein 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.)

5/20/2018

Protein for Exercisers

What happens when you give extra protein to women who regularly perform resistance exercise? Extra good things, according to a recent study. See the details (including dosage) in the What It Does section of the Protein Powders, Shakes, and Drinks Review. (Also see our Top Picks among protein products).

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.)

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.

2/27/2019

Many Men and Women Not Getting Enough Protein

A national study found that many older men and women don't get enough protein in their diets, including those in their 50s. For details, see the What It Does section of the Protein Powders and Drinks Review. Also see our Top Picks among protein supplements.

9/12/2015

Cardiovascular Benefits of Cocoa Flavanols

A drink rich in cocoa flavanols modestly improved certain measures of cardiovascular health in healthy, middle-aged men and women, according to a recent study. Get the details, including dosage, plus our tests of popular products, in the Review of Cocoa Powders, Dark Chocolate, Extracts, Nibs, & Supplements >>

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 >>   

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 >>   

2/21/2016

Gastrointestinal Side-Effects of Chlorella

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

4/20/2016

Diabetes Cured With Low Cal Diet

A recent study found that type 2 diabetes was reversed in 40% of people who followed an 8-week, very low calorie diet consisting mainly of a diet shake. Get details about the study in the "What It Does" section of the Protein Powders and Drinks Review – for Body Building, Sports & Dieting >>

6/08/2016

Whey Protein Improves Recovery After Hip Fracture Surgery

Whey protein improved strength and the ability to perform certain activities of daily living in older adults who underwent surgery for hip fracture, according to a recent study. Get the details, including dosage, and more about other benefits, in the Protein Powders and Drinks 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 >>

8/09/2016

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 >>

1/11/2015

More Cocoa Benefits

A recently published study showed that hot cocoa made with a flavanol-enriched powder resulted in improvements in cognitive performance as well as reductions in blood pressure and cholesterol, and improved glucose metabolism. The study was conducted in people ages 65 to 80 who drank the cocoa each morning. More details, as well as our tests of cocoa powders, are found in the Cocoa and Dark Chocolate Review >> 

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 >>   

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 >>

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 >>

4/14/2013

Concern Over Carnitine Causing Cardiovascular Disease

Intake of L-carnitine from supplements (and from red meat) may foster atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), according to new research. Once ingested, L-carnitine is converted in some people to a compound which reduces the normal clearing of cholesterol from arteries.

For more details, see the updated reviews of B Vitamin Supplements & Energy Drinks and Protein Powders, as some of these products contain L-carnitine. The Acetyl-L-Carnitine Supplements review has also been updated because acetyl-L-carnitine is chemically similar to L-carnitine, suggesting a potential concern.

4/21/2023

Five More Water Filter Pitchers Tested

We tested five more water filter pitchers (Aquagear, Berkey, Brita, Kirkland, and LifeStraw) and found surprising results.

While all did an excellent job of removing the heavy metals lead, cadmium, and mercury, pitchers varied dramatically in their ability to remove chlorine, (which affects taste), fluoride, arsenic, total dissolved solids (TDS), and microplastic particles. Be aware that some pitchers actually increase the amount of microplastics in water after filtering!

See our Top Picks for:

• Removing Chlorine Taste
• Reducing Fluoride
• Removing Arsenic
• Reducing Earthy Taste (due to high TDS)