Evidence Standards

Our editorial and scientific standard for grading health supplement efficacy.

1. The Evidence Hierarchy

We weigh clinical data according to its reliability. Not all studies are equal.

Tier AMeta-Analysis & Systematic Reviews

The gold standard. Synthesized results from multiple high-quality human trials.

Tier BRandomized Controlled Trials (RCTs)

High-quality human studies with placebos and double-blinding.

Tier CObservational & Cohort Studies

Shows correlation but not necessarily causation.

Tier DAnimal or In-Vitro Models

Preliminary data. Often fails to translate to human results.

2. Dosage Adequacy

A supplement can have the right ingredient but the wrong dose. We compare "Label Dose" vs. "Clinical Effective Dose." If a supplement uses "window-dressing" (a tiny amount of an expensive ingredient), it is penalized in our scoring system.

3. Bioavailability & Forms

The chemical form matters. For example, Magnesium Oxide has ~4% absorption, while Magnesium Glycinate is highly bioavailable. We prioritize supplements that use the most absorbable forms.

4. Safety Audit

  • Upper Limit (UL) Checks: Ensuring doses don't exceed established safe limits.
  • Heavy Metal Risk: Identifying ingredients (like certain herbs) with historically high risk of contamination.
  • Drug Interactions: Explicitly noting where supplements interfere with common medications.

Independent & Unbiased

We do not accept payments from supplement brands for rankings or reviews.

Learn more about us →