For information, not medical advice. Supplements are not FDA-approved to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. Talk to a qualified health professional before taking a supplement.
Start with the serving
Find the serving size and servings per container before comparing amounts. A label may describe two capsules, not one; the nutrient amounts apply to that stated serving. Divide the current price by the number of servings, rather than comparing bottle counts alone.
The manufacturer's suggested serving is not a personal prescription. A clinician or dietitian can help decide whether a supplement and its amount fit your needs.
Read the facts panel and daily values
The Supplement Facts panel identifies dietary ingredients and their amounts per serving. Percent Daily Value (%DV), when listed, is a general reference, not a target tailored to you. More is not automatically better: nutrients from food, fortified drinks, and other supplements can add up.
A proprietary blend lists its combined amount, but may not disclose how much of each ingredient it contains. That makes comparisons less precise. Some powders are labeled as foods and use a Nutrition Facts panel instead.
Check the rest of the label
Read the other-ingredients list for flavorings, sweeteners, capsule materials, and ingredients you avoid. Check allergy information, the suggested use, expiration date, storage instructions, and the company contact details. Ingredient lists can differ by flavor or formulation.
A third-party seal can help you evaluate quality, but certification programs test different things. Verify the exact product and certification with the certifier; a seal does not guarantee effectiveness or that a product is safe for everyone.
Treat front-of-pack promises as a starting point
Phrases such as ‘supports wellness’ do not tell you whether a product will solve a particular problem. Supplements are not approved by the FDA before marketing as drugs are, and they are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Before starting, especially if you take medication, are pregnant or nursing, or are shopping for a child, discuss the complete label with a qualified health professional.
Frequently asked questions
Does a high %DV mean a supplement is better?
No. %DV is a general reference, and excess amounts of some nutrients can be harmful. Consider your full diet and other supplements, and ask a clinician about your needs.
Does a third-party seal mean a product works?
No. A quality seal can address aspects such as label accuracy or contamination, depending on the program; it does not establish effectiveness for your goal.
Sources and further reading
Explore the original guidance for more detail.