How We Evaluate Supplements
Every article on this site follows a structured research process. We believe you deserve to know not just what we conclude, but how we get there.
What Makes Us Different
Most supplement sites exist to sell you something. We exist to help you understand what science actually says — in language you can use.
No Affiliate Influence
Our evaluations are never influenced by product sales or affiliate relationships. We assess the compound, not the brand.
Transparency Over Authority
We show our reasoning, not just our conclusions. If the evidence is mixed, we say so. If we're uncertain, we say that too.
Science for Everyone
Other sites write for scientists. We write for people who want to make informed decisions about their health without needing a PhD.
Limitations Disclosed
Supplements are not medicine. We clearly state when evidence is preliminary, when studies have limitations, and when you should talk to a doctor.
Our 5-Step Process
Literature Search
We search PubMed, Cochrane Library, and major journals for randomized controlled trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses on each supplement.
We prioritize human clinical trials over animal or in-vitro studies. Observational data is noted but weighted lower.
Study Quality Assessment
Each study is evaluated for sample size, methodology, funding source, and potential bias. Industry-funded studies are flagged and weighed accordingly.
We look for double-blind, placebo-controlled designs with adequate sample sizes (n > 30 for most outcomes).
Evidence Synthesis
We combine findings across multiple studies to form a complete picture. A single study — no matter how impressive — is never the whole story.
Meta-analyses and systematic reviews carry the most weight, followed by large RCTs, then smaller trials.
Plain Language Translation
Complex statistical findings are translated into clear, actionable guidance. We tell you what the evidence supports, what it doesn't, and where uncertainty remains.
Every claim links back to its source. We never overstate results or hide limitations.
Ongoing Updates
Science evolves. We monitor new publications and update our content when significant new evidence emerges. Every article shows its last update date.
Major updates are noted in the article. We don't silently change conclusions.
How We Grade Evidence
Not all evidence is equal. We use a four-tier system to help you understand how confident science is about each claim.
Strong
Multiple large RCTs or meta-analyses with consistent results
Examples: Creatine for strength, Vitamin D for bone health in deficient populations
Moderate
Some RCTs with positive results, but more research needed
Examples: Ashwagandha for cortisol reduction, Omega-3 for depression (EPA-predominant)
Emerging
Preliminary evidence from small trials or animal studies
Examples: NMN for longevity, Magnesium L-Threonate for cognitive function
Insufficient
Not enough quality evidence to draw conclusions
Examples: Many social media supplement trends without clinical backing
Ready to Read the Evidence?
Every article follows this process. Start exploring.