Supplements
How to Read a Supplement Facts Label
A practical guide to serving sizes, ingredient amounts, forms, blends and health-claim red flags on supplement labels.
Health note: This page is educational and does not diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. Supplements can interact with medicines and may not be appropriate for everyone. If you use glucose-lowering medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a medical condition, discuss supplements with a qualified health professional.
Start with serving size
Serving size determines how much of each listed ingredient the label amounts refer to.
Look for specific amounts
When amounts are disclosed, you can compare the marketed dose with doses studied in research. Proprietary blends can make that harder.
Ingredient form matters
Botanical species, extract standardization and mineral forms can affect whether research is applicable.
Do not confuse a label claim with FDA approval
FDA says structure/function claims on supplement labeling are not pre-approved as proof of efficacy and must use the required disclaimer when applicable.
Sources & further reading