In an era where health and wellness are at the forefront of our minds, supplements have become an integral part of many people’s daily routines. Whether you take vitamin C, probiotics for gut health, or drink a protein shake, supplements are pervasive and highly visible, as many influencers are paid to promote their favorites. But with a wealth of information comes the inherent risk of some of it being false or not reliable. How do you know which supplement companies you can trust? How can you tell the difference between a trustworthy, scientifically proven product and the rest of the fads? And ultimately, how do you pick the supplements that you actually need?
One of our Homewood personal trainers, Jesse Mendel, faces these questions from her clients regularly. As a certified personal trainer and fitness lover, she is no stranger to using or recommending supplements to support her fitness goals. This is a guide from Jesse to choosing a reliable supplement company, her top 3 companies she buys from and recommends to clients and her advice on how to choose the supplements that best fit your goals.
What to look for in a supplement company
When it comes to selecting a supplement company, making an informed choice is paramount. With the myriad of options available on the market today, knowing what to look for in a supplement company can be the difference between achieving your health goals and investing in products that fall short of their promises. The right supplement company doesn't just offer products; it provides solutions that are rooted in quality, transparency, and efficacy.
Quality and purity standards
The hallmark of an outstanding supplement company is its commitment to quality. Quality control measures, such as third-party testing and certifications, are non-negotiable aspects that indicate a company's dedication to delivering safe and effective products. Third-party testing by reputable organizations ensures that the supplements meet high standards for purity and potency. Look for certifications from bodies such as the U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention (USP), NSF International, or ConsumerLab, which verify that the products contain exactly what is stated on the label and are free from harmful levels of contaminants.
The sourcing and manufacturing practices of a supplement company are also important to consider. Ethically sourced ingredients that are non-GMO and free from unnecessary additives reflect a brand's commitment to both the environment and the consumer's health. Additionally, manufacturing practices should comply with the Current Good Manufacturing Practices (CGMPs) set forth by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), ensuring that the products are produced in a safe, clean, and well-regulated environment.
Transparency and education
A trustworthy supplement company operates with a high level of transparency. This means full disclosure of all ingredients, including the source and purpose of each component in their supplements. Companies that provide detailed information about their formulations, including the science and research backing their products, empower consumers to make educated decisions. This openness is crucial for individuals with dietary restrictions, allergies, or those simply seeking to avoid artificial additives.
Beyond merely selling products, the right supplement company acts as a partner in your wellness journey. It invests in educating its customers through scientifically backed resources, such as articles, webinars, and consultations with healthcare professionals. This educational approach aligns with the philosophy that well-informed consumers are better equipped to make choices that align with their health and wellness goals.
Customer experience and satisfaction
Exceptional customer service is a cornerstone of any reputable supplement company. A company that values its customers demonstrates this through responsive customer support, clear return policies, and money-back guarantees. Such policies not only reflect the company's confidence in its products but also its commitment to customer satisfaction and trust.
Finally, take the time to read user reviews and testimonials. While individual experiences can vary, a pattern of positive feedback is a good indicator of the company’s reliability and the effectiveness of its products. Reviews can also provide insights into the company’s customer service and product efficacy, helping you make a well-rounded decision. Word-of-mouth is another powerful form of advertising—ask your friends, family, or personal trainer for recommendations of supplements that they trust.
Choosing the right supplement company is a crucial step in your wellness journey. It involves careful consideration of the company's quality standards, transparency practices, and commitment to customer satisfaction. By prioritizing companies that adhere to stringent quality control measures, provide clear and comprehensive product information, and support their customers through education and excellent service, you can feel confident in your supplement choices.
Jesse’s recommendations
As a personal trainer and avid fitness lover, Jesse understands the importance of finding reliable supplements for her client's health and wellness goals. When her clients ask her about supplements, a few specific companies stand out to her in terms of quality and the variety of products they offer. This list is not comprehensive, but these are the companies Jesse buys from and recommends to her clients.
1st Phorm
1st Phorm International brands itself as “the premier supplement line in the industry,” and they believe so strongly in their philosophy that they offer a 110% money-back guarantee, no questions asked, for all of their products. They pride themselves on excellent customer service and products that work. The company is NSF-certified and offers a variety of greens, protein, and other fitness supplements like creatine - you can even shop the website based on your specific goals. Jesse likes their micronized creatine monohydrate, their protein powders, and their BCAAs (branched-chain amino acids), which increase muscle protein synthesis and muscle growth and help prevent muscle fatigue.
Thorne
Founded in 1984, Thorne promises to “bring your health to new heights.” They have conducted extensive clinical research to ensure that their supplements work, and they are also NSF-certified. New customers can take a quiz to understand the supplements that best fit their needs, and they have a magazine/podcast called Take 5 Daily with educational resources. Along with supplements, Thorne offers various health tests to determine how to improve gut health and sleep habits, manage weight, and reduce stress. Jesse likes Thorne’s creatine, their amino complex (EAAs + BCAAs), and their whey protein.
RYSE
RYSE was founded in 2017, and their mission is “to fuel your greatness, no matter how gritty, long, and challenging your rise to success may be.” Their products are manufactured in the USA and they do not offer proprietary blends - they are fully transparent about all their ingredients. RYSE has partnered with celebrities, sports teams, and nationwide retail partners, like CVS and Walmart. They offer a stack & save promotion with their supplements, which vary from protein to pre-workout and many products in between. Jesse likes both of the different creatines RYSE offers: their creatine monohydrate, and their loaded creatine, which also contains magnesium, potassium, and calcium. She also recommends their BCAA powder, which also contains 3g of EAAs with every 5g of BCAAs, and their loaded protein with 25g of whey.
How to choose which supplements are right for you
With the vast array of options available, determining which supplements are best for you and your specific goals can seem like a daunting task. But there are a few steps you can take to ensure you pick the supplements that best fit your lifestyle, needs, and wellness routine.
Identify your goals
The first step in choosing the right supplements is to have a clear understanding of your health, fitness, and overall wellness goals. Are you looking to boost your immune system, improve cardiovascular health, enhance cognitive function, or support joint health? Your objectives will guide your choices, as different supplements serve different purposes. For instance, omega-3 fatty acids are known for their heart health benefits, while probiotics can support gut health.
Consult with healthcare professionals
Before adding any supplement to your regimen, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional. A doctor, personal trainer, nutritionist, or dietitian can help assess your health status, identify potential nutrient deficiencies, and recommend supplements that can effectively address your needs. They can also advise on appropriate dosages and any potential interactions with medications you may be taking, ensuring your safety and the efficacy of the supplement.
Research scientific evidence
The quality of a supplement should be backed by scientific evidence. Look for products that have been subject to clinical trials and studies demonstrating their benefits. Reputable companies often provide references to such studies on their websites or product packaging. Additionally, resources like PubMed and the National Institutes of Health (NIH) offer access to a wealth of research articles and clinical trial findings.
While supplements are generally considered safe, it's important to be aware of any potential side effects or contraindications. Reading labels carefully, adhering to recommended dosages, and choosing products from reputable companies that adhere to regulatory standards, like the ones we discussed, can help mitigate risks.
Monitor needs and adjust
Your health and wellness goals are likely to evolve over time, and so should your supplement regimen. Regular check-ins with healthcare professionals can help you assess your current health status and adjust your supplement intake accordingly. This ensures that your choices remain aligned with your evolving health needs and goals.
Finally, after starting any new supplement, it’s important to monitor your body’s response. If you experience any adverse effects, consult with a healthcare professional immediately. They may recommend adjusting the dosage or trying an alternative supplement that better suits your body’s needs.
Choosing the right supplements is a highly personal decision that depends on your unique health needs, goals, and lifestyle. By understanding your health objectives, consulting with professionals, researching potential supplements, and opting for quality products like the ones we’ve listed, you can create a personalized supplement regimen that supports your journey toward optimal health. Remember, supplements should complement, not replace, a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. With the right approach, you can navigate the world of supplements with confidence, making choices that empower you to achieve your wellness goals. We always encourage our clients at EW Motion Therapy to only use supplements as an addition to a healthy, balanced diet, not a replacement. Our personal trainers and nutrition specialists can provide recommendations on supplements for your specific goals. If you would like to learn more about which of our programs may be right for you, click the button below to answer the questions in our self-selection tool.
