Every supplement review on this site follows the same 5-step research methodology. This process typically takes several hours of research per product and is designed to give readers the most complete, evidence-based picture possible.
We compile the complete ingredient list and search PubMed and Cochrane Library for peer-reviewed clinical studies on each ingredient. We record the strength of evidence (systematic review/meta-analysis > RCT > observational study > in vitro), the doses studied, and the outcomes measured. Only human clinical studies are cited in our reviews — animal and in vitro studies are noted but not used as primary evidence.
We assess the quality of evidence for each ingredient using a modified GRADE framework. Cochrane systematic reviews receive the highest weight, followed by randomized controlled trials with adequate sample sizes (n>30), followed by observational studies. We note effect sizes, study durations, and population characteristics to determine how applicable the evidence is to the intended supplement users.
We evaluate what the manufacturer discloses: Are ingredient dosages listed on the label? Is the manufacturing facility verifiably FDA-registered and GMP-certified? Are claims made consistent with supplement regulations (no disease cure claims)? Is the refund policy clearly stated and honored? Transparency gaps — particularly undisclosed dosages — are explicitly noted in every review.
We analyze verified customer reviews from multiple sources. We specifically look for: reported timelines to benefits, side effect patterns, customer service experiences, and refund experiences. We deliberately include negative and mixed reviews in our summaries — a review page that shows only positive outcomes is not representative of real-world results.
We compare the product against its leading alternatives using factual, publicly available information. We use neutral descriptive language rather than biased scoring (no "✓ Excellent / ✗ Poor" comparisons that could mislead readers). We explicitly state that no head-to-head clinical trials exist between the compared products.
This website earns affiliate commissions on products we review. This is disclosed prominently on every page. Our conflict of interest policy: (1) Scoring criteria are applied identically to all products regardless of commission rate. (2) If we identify a significant quality concern with an affiliated product, we publish it. (3) We do not accept payment from manufacturers to alter our published scores or remove negative content. (4) We do not accept free products in exchange for positive reviews.
Reviews are updated: when product formulas change, when significant new clinical evidence is published, when pricing or guarantee terms change, or at minimum annually. All pages display a "Last Updated" date.