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How to Spot Bogus Supplement Claims and Make Informed Decisions

How to Spot Bogus Supplement Claims and Make Informed Decisions

Science

By Awesome Supplements, Read time: 3 minutes

The supplement industry is booming, with promises of everything from miracle weight loss to boundless energy.

But the truth is, not all claims hold water, and some products can do more harm than good. At Awesome Supplements, we’re committed to evidence-based, evidence-dosed nutrition because we believe you deserve the truth.

Here’s how to navigate this often-murky world and ensure your choices genuinely benefit your health.

The Problem: A Rife Industry of Misinformation

Many supplement companies use sneaky and underhanded tactics:Bogus Claims: Promising quick fixes or extreme results without the science to back them.

Animal Research Extrapolation: Highlighting studies conducted on rats or mice as definitive proof for humans.

Under-Dosing: Adding trendy ingredients in amounts too small to be effective.

These practices leave consumers like you misled and often out of pocket. Let’s dive into how to avoid falling victim.

The Consumer’s Guide to Fact-Checking Supplement Claims

Here’s your go-to checklist for separating science from fiction:

1. Read the Research (or Lack of It)

A reputable supplement company will back their claims:

  • Look for human-based studies published in peer-reviewed journals. Animal studies might be interesting, but they don’t always apply to humans.
  • Beware of cherry-picked data. A single study isn’t enough; credible claims require multiple high-quality trials.
  • Trust brands, like Awesome Supplements, that provide direct links to the studies supporting their ingredients.

2. Check the Dosage

An ingredient is only effective at the right dose.

Many products use “pixie dusting” - adding tiny amounts of trendy ingredients to make the label look impressive without providing enough for a therapeutic effect. Compare the label to research-backed dosages.

For example:

  • Creatine: 3-5g daily for performance benefits.
  • Omega-3: Effective doses typically start at 1-3g of combined EPA/DHA.

If the label doesn’t match the science, move on.

You can check out both the research and the effective dosages by searching for the ingredient at examine.com.

3. Beware of Proprietary Blends

Proprietary blends allow companies to hide the exact amounts of ingredients. While this might sound like a trade secret, they often conceal under-dosed formulas. A truly trustworthy company will list exact ingredient amounts because they prioritise your results over “secrets.”

Transparency builds trust, not mystery

4. Avoid Claims That Sound Too Good to Be True

“Lose 10 pounds in a week!” or “Cure your insomnia overnight!” These are red flags. Supplements can support your health, but they’re not magic pills. Claims should align with realistic, evidence-backed outcomes.

5. Demand Transparency

A trustworthy company will be clear about their:

  • Sourcing: Where do the ingredients come from?
  • Formulation: Are the doses clinically effective?
  • Testing: Do they use third-party testing to ensure quality and safety?
  • Ingredient Quality: Do they disclose the quality of ingredients?
  • Reputation: Do they engage in education, to empower informed choices?

Why Transparency Matters

At Awesome Supplements, we’re not just here to sell you a product. We want you to understand what you’re buying and why. That’s why we:

  • Publish Research: We explain the science behind our formulas and use clinically effective doses.
  • Third-Party Testing: All our products are rigorously tested for quality and safety.Education: We provide resources to help you make informed decisions, whether or not you choose our products.
  • Transparent Labels: You’ll always know exactly what’s in our products and in what amounts.

Your Health, Your Responsibility

The supplement industry doesn’t need to be a minefield if you arm yourself with the right knowledge. Here’s how you can take action:

  • Ask Questions: Contact companies directly if something is unclear. A good company will have nothing to hide.
  • Stay Skeptical: Use your checklist to evaluate claims critically.
  • Choose Integrity: Support brands that prioritise your health over profits.

Demand More from Your Supplements

Your body is your most valuable asset. Don’t let flashy marketing and false promises undermine your health.

Armed with the tools above, you can confidently navigate the supplement world and choose products that deliver genuine results.

Ready to demand better? Check out our transparent, science-backed range and start making informed decisions today.

Awesome Supplements
by Awesome Supplements