What to Look For When Choosing a Supplement

If you are a frequent flier here at Practical Nutrition podcast, you already know how much we love food over supplements - if you’re new here…now you know. However, there’s no denying that supplementation is still a huge part of the American population’s routine - it’s estimated 3 out of 4 people are taking supplements. 76% of Americans report using a vitamin and mineral supplement, 40% report taking some kind of specialty supplement, 39% herbs and botanicals, 28% sports nutrition supplements, and 17% weight loss supplements. Do you fall into one of these categories? If you do, listen up!

There are certainly times when supplements are necessary, and we want to help you choose as safe and high quality of an option as possible. If you are curious if your non-prescription supplementation is necessary, contact us! Today, we are going to talk you through what to look for when choosing a supplement.

Take yourself through these 7 questions to screen the supplement for safety. Answer yes or no to the following questions.

1. Are any one of the 3rd-party certification seals on the product label? (GMP, NSF, BSCP, Informed Choice, etc)
2. Are there less than 6 ingredients on the Supplement Facts panel?
3. Is the Supplement Facts panel free of the words proprietary blend, matrix, or complex?
4. Can you easily pronounce the name of each ingredient?
5. Is the amount of caffeine listed on the label 200 mg or less per serving?
6. Is the label free of “quick fix” claims?
7. Are all the % Daily Values less than 200%?

If you answered no to 4 or more of these questions - then the product is a “no-go”. If you answered yes to 4 or more of these questions, then the product is okay.

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