In essence, here you’ll have the possibility to request a review on any supplement in existence. Anything you’d like to know more of, anything you assume is good, but would like to get more details of.
There are no limits to this. Absolutely any supplement that is of your interest or has been on your mind, I’ll be happy to, to the very least, provide all of the key information and analysis on.
My only ask to you is to leave a comment below this post and share the three things below.
What Is The Supplement That You Want The Review On?
Here try to be as specific as possible – add its full name, drop a link to Amazon, or any other major online reseller. Make sure that I can exactly pinpoint the supplement that you want the review on.
Many times there are seemingly very similar supplements that do, however, have some significantly diverse additives (classically, it’s the case when comparing tablet version and capsule version).
Other times you can also find differences between essentially the same supplements, but one is of 60 capsules while the other 120 capsules.
And there can be other seemingly insignificant variations of the supplement that although are small, yet change everything. So, just be aware of this. And let me know.
Here’s the second one.
Where Are You From?
In regards to this one, I don’t want your specific address or anything. All I’d like is that you give us a general idea of where you’re from. Because I would love to learn more about the specific audience most involved with our mission.
You can give your residing city or country, or both. If you’re okay with doing that, I’d highly appreciate it. But do what feels most appropriate to you at this time.
Meaning, if you’re uncomfortable with just that, feel free to just name your residing continent. And I’ll take it as well. :)
And here’s the last one.
Why You’re After A Review On This Specific Supplement?
Everything will work here. Just be honest.
My father uses this, I’d like to know more; my spouse bought this for me yesterday; I have been thinking about buying it; I’d like to give this to someone for his/her birthday; I’ve heard it’s good, but I’d like to know more in-depth about it; I got this for free at a local store; I’ve been taking this for years now, I’d like to know if it’s actually good for me; and so on.
There are no ridiculous or foolish reasons. Make up a name for yourself if that puts you more at ease (which feel free to do anyway if that’s more appropriate for you).
You are also extremely welcome to share a story of yours on why you’d like a certain supplement review if you feel like it. All are truly welcome, the more involved you’ll be with the why – the more involved I’ll be.
The only other thing is that since my time is not unlimited, I will be prioritizing and typically creating full in-depth reviews that have search volume. Which essentially just means that I will be focusing on those supplements that other people are seeking extended information on, too.
As for all the rest, generally (but exceptions can happen), I will do my best to cover just the most important, deciding, key aspects with my answer to the comment. And another thing I can absolutely promise is that I will get back to 100% of the comments left.
So, which supplement would you like to get a review on and why?
Hi Matiss,
Here are some Omega-3 products I’m hoping you can review. This is my second review request! I’m asking because I’ve tried all of these products and am not sure which is best. I’m curious to know how these stack up against the supplements you have in your fish oil list.
1. NutraSea liquid fish oil.
2. Freshfield vegan DHA supplement.
3. Minami Nutrition’s MorEPA optimal DHA/EPA.
I’m also wondering which Omega-3 supplement you would recommend for pre-/post-natal purposes.
Thank you!
Hey, Michelle!
There is not a doubt in my mind that all of these fall below the very best fish oils I’ve listed.
The NutraSea one I had a feeling I’ve gone over but turns out I probably haven’t. Because it’s not third-party tested in the first place. Neither of those three is.
Hence, I wouldn’t recommend taking any of those. Ever.
Generally speaking, anything that the best of list lists is a safe bet. Pregnant and postnatal (except right after giving birth) both typically need even more Omega-3 than people generally. Helps with babies’ brain development and has been proven to help the babies sooner learn to talk and do so better than their peers without proper fish oil.
If you’re thinking Liquids, I probably wouldn’t go over their respective suggested use. With capsules, plus one very likely wouldn’t hurt.
Cheers, and have a Great One, Michelle!
Matiss
Hi Matiss,
I’m trying to research saffron oil supplements used in treating ADHD as an alternative to Ritalin and Adderall.
I cannot use Ritalin or Adderall because of it’s effects on the heart.
There are studies of saffron oil showing promising results.
There are saffron oil products on the market, I’d like to know how they rank, pros and cons.
Here’s some information that I found that may be useful.
I sincerely appreciate your feedback.
Paghat
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9573091/
https://www.phillyintegrative.com/post/saffron
Hi Matiss,
I’m from Canada, and I’m wondering if you can review the Smoky Mountain Nutrition’s DIM+BioPerine supplement?
I have been taking this supplement with the goal of balancing hormones to reduce acne.
Thank you!
Hey, Michelle!
It’s been taking me a while to respond. Sorry about that. I hope you’re well.
Yeah, I can get to that. But that will take some time. I feel there are other more immediate goals I have to attend to at the moment.
Other than that, as far as I can initially tell, the ingredients are lovely. To the very least, it shouldn’t be anything but beneficial. And I reckon it should help with acne.
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Matiss
First let me say I’m usually skeptical of these “review” sites because oftentimes, they are sponsored by some supplement company to use their brand, so it’s hard to find a genuine, honest, non-biased site like yours. I’m very impressed with your knowledge and integrity of getting people the correct information with no agenda. Thank you. Over the years I have been told that Dr. Mercola’s supplements are some of the best on the market. I would love to hear your review of them. They are a bit pricey so I’d like to know if my money is being well spent. I take his multivitamin and his beef bone broth collagen. Mercola.com.
And sorry, not trying to be greedy but other than Mercola supplements, I take a multivitamin and vitamin d from a company called True Nutrition. They have a good reputation and you can’t not purchase in a big box store (usually a good sign in terms of the quality of the company). Any feedback is greatly appreciated. Thanks and keep up your good work!
True Nutrition Whole Food Multivitamin.
True Nutrition Vitamin D3 5000IU Capsules.
Hey, Mario!
I feel you. I actually kind of felt the same way before I started Health Knight. Since then, I haven’t researched others too much.
But it really puts a smile on my face hearing your kind words. I would lie if I were to say that messages like yours are not something that helps me keep going and continue to pursue the mission. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for letting me know. I appreciate you, Mario.
As for the Mercola supplements, yeah, definitely. I would love to look into the multivitamin for you. The beef bone broth collagen too sounds to align well with my current attempts at dissecting Collagen supplements.
Few initial thoughts; the multivitamin seems to be really quality. I might have dismissed it in the past for the list of the best multivitamins for men according to 100% Daily Values due to some of the values going too far above. But I might have been too quick in that judgment. I’m definitely having second thoughts about adding it to that list. As for that Collagen, it looks very decent as well. Personally, I would prefer more Collagen per scoop (actually 2-4 times more) but this too can definitely work.
As for True Nutrition, rest assured, I don’t see that as being greedy at all. I’ll look into that stuff as well. Can’t promise on when though. But, again, a few initial thoughts.
I’m definitely not that keen on their multivitamin. A couple of pretty bad mineral forms (Calcium Carbonate, Magnesium Oxide, Zinc Oxide – arguably the worst for each respective mineral), some not as great vitamin forms as well (vitamin B6, B9, B12), and some purely terrible ones, potentially borderline toxic (vitamin D2). Some questionable nutrients to add to a multivitamin (Sodium, Chloride). And above all, additives or that Pharmaceutical Glaze in particular. As I’ve recently learned, it’s something that can be built out of questionable ingredients. So, if they don’t specify what ingredients exactly, probably best to avoid.
As for vitamin D of True Nutrition, personally, not a fan. As I see it, 5000 IU daily is arguably too much unless you’re aware that you are vitamin D deficient. Then it’s perfectly fine. Still, in that case, personally, I would prefer NOW Foods 5000 IU over this one (here’s also a review I’ve done on it). Just better and higher quality additives. And cheaper. And manufacturing at least as good or better.
I hope that helps,
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Matiss
Thank you so much for the quick reply, your response has helped me a lot and I am very grateful for that. Keep up the good work buddy!
Hey, Mario!
My pleasure. I’m happy to hear that. <3
Will do! :)
Matiss
Hi Matiss,
Your website has saved me. Not only I learned so much more about vitamins supplements, it helped me to make educated choices. Thank you.
I’m wondering if you would look into some of the protein supplement at all. I do not eat meat and while I have always thought I’d been fine, I recently found that taking plant protein in the morning kicks off the day nicely – no need for tea/ coffee, no aches and pains after exercise. To be honest, I’m wondering if it’s as good as it sounds in a long run. Is it harmful? Any differences in each brand? I’ve read your review on Nutrilite Double X vitamins and got me thinking because I’ve been taking Nutrilite plant protein.
All the best.
Luna
Hey, Luna!
Aww, that’s so nice to hear. I appreciate you letting me know. <3
Generally speaking, I would say that there is no reason why a proper plant protein supplement should be anything but beneficial in the long run.
As for the differences, there likely is a ton of minute ones that ultimately make all the difference. So, I can't say for sure as I haven't immersed myself in the product category yet. But I plan to in a rather near future.
As for any initial thoughts on Nutrilite Plant Protein, I'd say it generally looks okay, however... And that's a big "however"... However, it seems to me that the soy present in it might be of GMO sources. I mean, they don't indicate anywhere that it's Non-GMO. I mean, they mention other free-of stuff like Dairy-free, Lactose-free, Cholesterol-free, but forget this one. And so, it seems that it may likely be GMO. Even more so, considering that most soy, I mean, soy almost by default is GMO.
I haven't done that much research on soy itself, but soybean oil... Uff, that's something truly inflammation-promoting. Especially if GMO-sourced.
Better alternatives? Well, again, I haven't researched this too in-depth, however, remotely knowing that Garden of Life Whey Protein is at least somewhat busted. I looked into their Plant Protein, and it seems to be amazing. Non-GMO Project Verified, USDA Organic. And just overall solid ingredients. I mean, it seems legitimately busted as well.
And if we compare the prices, it's only slightly more expensive. To which end, I feel the price difference is beyond worth it. I mean, I would take that any time of the day.
I hope that helps!
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Matiss
Hi Matiss,
Sorry to ask but what does “busted” mean? Does it mean good, or bad?
It is like that word “Bombed”. In the USA Bomb is like Bombshell so it is good. In UK Bomb is like a detonation so it is bad.
Incidentally, I love your reviews, I enjoy reading them, and it really helped me to pick out Live Conscious Collagen Peptides.
Greetings!
I just found your website in the search for a multivitamin for myself and my spouse. We are both 52 and it is difficult to get her to take ANY vitamins…much less multiple servings per day. Based on my research, the Pure Encapsulations O.N.E. product appears to be the best single daily dose…are there others you recommend? Also, I have begun taking Life Extension Magnesium L-Threonate at the direction of my doctor and am considering adding Super Bio-Curcumin by Life Extension based on what I read on your site.
Thanks so much for your consideration and your truly impressive website.
Best regards,
ARJ
Hey, Arthur!
I really appreciate the kind-hearted words. They mean to me more than I could ever properly express in the English language.
I feel it all depends on what nutrient amount approach you more subscribe to – the Daily Values or the best practices for nutrient amounts.
I would personally choose the Thorne Research Basic Nutrients 2/Day (even if it has to be just one capsule) over the Pure Encapsulations O.N.E. every time. However, if you’re more into Daily Values, I believe the latter can work wonderfully.
As for the very best in that category, I haven’t researched that yet. So, I can’t say for sure. But I would like to think that both of these would be at least near the top (in each respective category).
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Carpe minutam/Seize the moment,
Matiss
Hi Matiss,
I am hoping you can help with a question about Liposomal Vitamin C. I recently began taking the ‘Core Med Science’ brand but am worried it is not a good product. Mostly because all the online reviews are from the company or amazon, and so may not be legit. Do you have any advice on what would be the best liposomal vitamin C supplement? I ask because liposomal vitamin c is part of a regimen I’m trying to follow to fight Covid-19. Please let me know if you get a chance.
Thank you,
Mya
Hey, Mya!
Yeah, I think you’re right. It’s not a legit one. I mean, for short-term use it would probably be fine. Long-term might not be the case of all due to Potassium Sorbate, as well as maybe Natural Flavors. I mean, I personally wouldn’t go for it.
As for the best ones, quite honestly, I haven’t been too involved with vitamin Cs yet. Until like half an hour ago Liposomal Vitamin C was something I was absolutely not unaware of. That said, I did come up with a couple of decent ones. More like what I imagine to be decent ones based on the ingredients they use (most, as I came to know, are likely not the greatest when it comes to additives).
This Zenwise I liked a lot. It basically doesn’t have any additives. And it’s third-party tested. I liked this as well. And this looks somewhat decent as well. Not sure about going with the most basic vitamin C form but additives are solid.
I hope that helps, even if just a little bit, Mya!
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Carpe minutam/Seize the moment,
Matiss
Hi Matiss, Im from the USA, came across your site and i am very impressed with your research. Thanks for the time you put into these reviews.
I wanted to ask you if you had heard of Extend Life Vitamins. They are made in Switzerland and are enteric coated. Supposedly this helps to digest in the lower intestine and much more of the vitamins and minerals are absorbed.
Wanted to get your input on this when you have a chance.
Thanks again and keep up the great work!
Hey, Larry!
I’m sorry I haven’t managed to get back to you sooner. I hope you and your loved ones are doing well.
Quite honestly, I haven’t been too involved in that notion. So, I feel, my knowledge as regards this is pretty superficial.
That said, I reckon this could help better absorb it. However, if I remember this correctly, it was a trade-off not worth taking. At least, I’ve personally seen it always that way.
The thing about those supplements is the exact reason why I haven’t added any of them to the very best of the multivitamins list.
Meaning, it’s all about the additives they use. Hence, while they may be managing to achieve somewhat higher absorption and all that, the additives I wouldn’t consider the greatest, healthiest, or least potentially harmful. And with that, despite their fancy enteric coating, I don’t see them as a great option. I mean, I reckon they could certainly be viable. But that’s just not the trade-off I would take or I would recommend other people take.
Other than that, I really appreciate the kind words, Larry! And we’ll do. :)
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Carpe minutam/Seize the moment,
Matiss
Hello Matiss,
my name is Luis and I am from Bogotá, Colombia.
Ive been struggling with ADHD and was looking for a multivitamin to get my nutrition right and see if it helps. I found this one called Solgar Male Multiple, https://www.misvitaminas.com.co/male-multiple-60-tabletas-solgar
I would love to read your thoughts on it.
Hope you are doing well!
Also what a great site you have put together, congrats!
Hey, Luis!
This is perfect, man! I was actually thinking the other day that I haven’t done any multivitamins in a while. And that I should find one to do soon.
Hence, I’d love to get this one done for you.
Give me a few days, I’m doing an article right now, which I’ll hopefully publish in the next couple of hours. And then I’ll switch to this.
I hope you’re doing well, too, Luis! And I appreciate the kind words!
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Carpe minutam/Seize the moment,
Matiss
Hi Matiss,
Tam from the US.
I stumbled upon your website when looking for a new woman’s daily vitamin. I can gladly say I ditched my Olly Multivitamin for Garden of Life Vitamin Code. Thank you for the time and effort you place on vitamin research.
I was hoping to obtain a review on the following supplement below.
As opposed to taking multiple supplements it seems this particular item tackles all of them. However, I’d like to obtain your feedback.
Papillex.
Hey, Tam!
Not sure if we’re looking at the same supplement. The Papillex I’m seeing is a highly specialized supplement with only so many vitamins and minerals (is this the one you meant?).
As I see it, in its essence, it seems to be a great supplement. I love the fact that they provide certificates of analysis. Also, the ingredients it does have seem very solid. And the additives are nice as well. However, I wouldn’t consider it a viable/full-on replacement for a multivitamin. I mean, you could couple it with a multivitamin, however, it’s not a replacement.
I will drop a more elaborate piece on this when I get a chance.
Above all, I’m happy to hear the reviews have been helpful. And I appreciate you recognizing the effort and time it takes. <3
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Matiss
Hi Matiss,
I hope this message finds you well. I was hoping to obtain a new review, if you don’t mind – Ritual Women’s Multivitamin.
Thank you,
Tam
Hey, Tam!
I hope you’re doing well, too.
It’s actually something I’ve listed under the Bull*hit supplements (worst and misrepresented supplements of other best-of lists) in this article.
Check out that one and if you need any further input on anything, just let me know.
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Matiss
What are your thoughts about the Vitabiotic’s Wellman multivitamin?
Hey, Ahmed!
I don’t think it’s a good one! And there’s a couple of reasons for that.
First, men don’t need Iron in their supplements (unless it’s for vegetarians or vegans but the supplement is for neither). In the short-term, it might be okay. However, in the long run it might be profoundly detrimental.
Second, the supplement forgets to add a couple of crucial minerals like Boron, Molybdenum, Vanadium, Calcium. There’s also no vitamin K.
Third, it goes by the cheapest and pretty much the worst forms for a number of nutrients, especially minerals. For example, Magnesium Oxide, Zinc Sulphate, Ferrous Fumarate, Manganese Sulphate, Copper Sulphate, Sodium Selenate, and others. These won’t be well-absorbed and thus, they’ll be of very questionable benefit.
Now, forth is the biggest no-no. As I see it, cheap and potentially very hazardous additives. For example, Titanium Dioxide, Talc, Iron Oxides, Maltodextrin, DL-Alpha Tocopherol. Also, I’m not a fan of Sucrose or Corn Starch.
Fifth, given that they use Soy but don’t have a Non-GMO certification, it’s likely GMO. And that can just be truly stupid. Truly stupid in how it negatively impacts health.
And finally, a more advanced one. Sixth, it doesn’t add Mixed Carotenoids, Inositol, or Choline.
The added beneficial substances like Co-enzyme Q10, Citrus Bioflavonoids, and Amino Acids are great but they don’t rectify it as a choice. And I think this sums it up nicely…
If I were offered a lifetime supply of the supplement for free, I wouldn’t take it.
Moreover, I wouldn’t take it even if people offered to pay me if I did.
I hope that helps!
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Matiss
Hello, Matiss. Out of these two 2-a-day pills which would you prefer for a male? Douglas Laboratories Ultra Balance III or Thorne Research Basic Nutrients 2/Day.
I like that the Ultra Balance III has copper but heard iron isn’t really needed for males, not sure if that amount of iron is harmful or not in the long run.
I also take vitamin A retinoids and zinc by themselves so it’s not a big deal if either is lacking in those two.
Hey, Elliot!
Sorry, it took me a while to get back to you. I hope you’re doing well.
Generally speaking, I feel both are really good choices. However, I personally would prefer the Thorne Research option.
While it may not contain as much of the added substances (or almost any), in my mind, it gets a much better kick out of the B vitamins. Also, generally speaking, the Basic Nutrients 2/Day brings better nutrient forms to the table but it has to be said that the ones of Douglas Laboratories are not bad at all most of the time either.
As for the Iron, I reckon it might be okay for some time. But ideally, I agree, it shouldn’t be a long-term approach.
I hope that helps!
All the best,
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Matiss
Hi, Matiss!
What do you think the best men’s 1 a day multivitamin is? I know they aren’t as great as the 3-4 a day ones but I can’t pay that much for those as they are pretty darn expensive. Heh.
Hey, James!
I feel you, man! And apologies for not managing to get back to you sooner.
Generally speaking, in the past, I have recommended the Thorne Research Basic Nutrients 2/Day as one among the best 1 a day ones (though it’s actually two a day) and I stand by that. I’m well aware it might not be the absolute best in that category, however, it’s definitely up there, and I’ll only be able to tell for sure when I do some profound research in this that will likely also be an article at some point.
That said, I do feel it highly depends on what philosophy of nutrient amounts you subscribe to. If you’re an equal-to-or-reasonably-above-100%-Daily-Values-type of guy, I would recommend looking into No. 8 of this list. Whereas if you’re someone who rather goes by the best practices for nutrient amounts, Thorne Research Basic Nutrients 2/Day would be the choice (it’s also available globally). And that’s true even if it has to be 1 a day of this one instead of two.
Alternatively, Now Foods Adam can also work. It also goes by two a day (but you could alter it to 1 a day if it must be). It prices about equal but there’s twice as much in it. But be that as it may, yes, overall, there are some definite advantages of it like Choline and Inositol (brain-boosting stuff), or Saw Palmetto for sexual health, or CoQ10 for cells, or Carotenoids and Grape Seed extract for antioxidant properties and a number of other potential benefits. Still, overall I personally would prefer the Thorne Research one.
But do consider both and pick that which feels more right or is more appropriate to you at this time, James.
I hope that helps!
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Carpe minutam/Seize the moment,
Matiss
Hello Matiss, I see that you really like the Douglas Laboratories Ultra Preventive X multivitamin but have you looked into the cheaper Douglas Laboratories – Ultra Balance III – Comprehensive Vitamin/Mineral/Trace Element Formula?
The Preventive X is pretty expensive to import here and the Ultra Balance III is just 1 pill a day and costs a lot less to get, also how would you compare it to the cheaper Naturelo One Daily Multivitamin? Right now I’m eyeing both of these.
Thanks.
Hey!
My apologies, Steve, for not managing to get back to you sooner. :)
I looked into it, and to me, the Ultra Balance III looks very good. It seems that it could be even the very best of the best multivitamins worthy if one went with 6-8 tablets. I mean, oddly enough, Douglas Labs don’t list it on their global website. It seems that only Canada gets that.
But either way, I feel it could work pretty great with just one pill (though two would be at least 5 times better) if you’re hunting for a supplement that’s more or less into 100% Daily Values (meaning, one that follows the standard of equal to or reasonably above 100% Daily Values, instead of the best practices for nutrient amounts). And to that end, it’s a ridiculous price for value. Plus, you’re avoiding all the import fees and everything.
If I had to compare, I would prefer the Ultra Balance III over Naturelo One Daily Multivitamin at any time of the day. It clearly beats it in terms of B vitamins. It adds both crucial forms of vitamin A (Retinoids and Carotenoids) instead of just one. It’s I feel overall also better as far as minerals go, especially if you’re doing two tablets. The added beneficial substances of Naturelo One Daily Multivitamin (like the Organic Fruit and Vegetable blend) while sounds nice, won’t do nearly as much as brain-boosting substances (Choline and Inositol), Citrus Bioflavonoids, PABA, Betaine, L-Glutamic Acid, L-Cysteine, N-Acetyl-L-Cysteine, and L-Methionine of the Ultra Balance will.
So, yes, definitely the Ultra Balance III over Naturelo One Daily Multivitamin.
If there are any other ideas you feel like running by me, just let me know, Steve. I’m all here for you.
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Carpe minutam/Seize the moment,
Matiss
HI- I reside in Missouri. I am looking for a good vitamin for my picky eating toddler. I just read your review on the Women’s Olly vitamins and was shocked. I almost bought Olly kids multi + Probiotic vitamin gummies – Berry Punch 1– ct. I would like to hear your thoughts on these. Greatly appreciate your advice. Thanks!
Hey, Jen!
Sorry, I haven’t found time to get back to you sooner.
In short, very similar to its parent supplement. Terribly scarce when it comes to vitamin and mineral diversity, and likely extremely harmful due to the kind of sugar forms it uses when it comes to its additives.
I personally go with the Garden of Life Mykind Organics Kids (Multi Gummies) for my two-year-old daughter. This one might supposedly fall short on some crucial minerals but I do believe the added organic blends should more than make up for all that.
Alternatively, I feel it’s definitely worth considering also the Naturelo Whole Food Vitamin Gummies for Kids.
The best part about both of these is the fact that neither of them uses harmful sugar forms (or have the harmful effects of sugar just overall). Instead, they do Stevia, which is like one of the best natural sweetening options out there (the other being Monk Fruit).
As for why I feel the Garden of Life option is slightly more better, it’s because of Natural Flavors that the Naturelo one utilizes. This is not to say that Natural Flavors is something inherently bad. Not at all, if done through proper manufacturing, they can actually be quite beneficial, which when it comes to the Naturelo I’m, however, not 100% sure they’re as great as they could be.
Other than that, I will schedule doing the article sometime soon for more insight.
Cheers, and have a Wonderful Day!
Carpe minutam/Seize the moment,
Matiss
Dude, your site is amazing, and will only get better with time!
I have an ALS diagnosis, which means no treatment, so the patient is on their own.
If you use this as a starting point, that’s an awful pile of pills for someone with swallowing issues.
While looking for a comprehensive solution, I came across Nature’s Plus Brainceutix Multi which seems to be a high-quality one, that covers most of the bases, together with Nature’s Plus Brainceutix Boost.
Since I live in Serbia, iHerb and products under 50 euro are my only options, unless I want to pay almost double for customs.
Can’t wait for your opinion and/or suggestions/alternatives :)
Hey, Zarko!
The truth is I couldn’t possibly answer the question in a short fashion. It took well over 2.7k words. So, I decided to put up a separate article around that. Mostly because I believe that anyone else seeking potential solutions for ALS, may be interested in what I shared. And keeping it here in the comment section is a short fire way for them to never see it. Hence, a separate article.
I hope you don’t mind.
For the time being, I have changed out your name in that article (though the answer there was tailored for you). And I haven’t linked it back to this article for now. Mainly because I’m not sure if you’re okay with me using the name you provided for the comment section (likely your real name).
So, please, do let me know. Cause I can switch it out also here or if it’s okay, I’d much rather prefer using the name you already provided also in that article.
So, here’s the article with my full thoughts on battling ALS.
Other than that, if you have anything else to add, feel free to drop it here below.
Best of Luck, Zarko! All the best to you!
Cheers, and have a Great One!
Carpe minutam/Seize the moment,
Matiss
I am from Singapore, saw your reviews on multivitamins which are all very interesting. I wonder why in Singapore my friend keeps showing me USANA Essentials is the best multivitamin in the world 2019 with their reference to a book called “Comparative Guide to Nutritional Supplement”. Their brands seem to not be found in your list of review. Did I miss something here?
Hey, Jacky!
Yes, a fascinating supplement, indeed, eh? And such a spot-on question! :)
But, no, you did not miss a thing. The USANA Essentials nutrients (Vita Antioxidant & Core Minerals) I have not listed among the very best multivitamin supplements.
Here’s why.
First, it doesn’t exactly fall in line with either the approach following 100% Daily Values (I refer to it as the conventional approach) or the best practices for nutrient amounts (the unconventional one).
Meaning, it’s neither one or the other. Or to be more exact, it’s way too potent when considering 100% Daily Values because there’s 1000% of vitamin B1, 880% of vitamin B2, 800% of vitamin B6, etc. And you don’t want that much if going by this approach.
Whereas when considering the best practices for nutrient amounts it’s way too scarce in regards to most nutrients. For example, according to the best practices you should strive for 25-50 mg of vitamin B1 (15 mg is not enough), or 25-50 mg of vitamin B2 (again, 15 mg is not enough), or 25-50 mg of vitamin B6 (here 16 mg but that’s still insufficient), as well as there are a bunch of other such examples.
Second, the list of additives. In particular Organic Maltodextrin.
In the past, I have written of the dangers associated with it in numerous of my articles. Here are some excerpts.
“Maltodextrin is yet another form of sugar. Some even do consider it one of the worst forms of hidden sugar. Furthermore, among other adverse sugar-related effects it also can cause sudden headaches, itching, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, rash, bloating, as well as it can weaken the immune system among other adverse effects.” – Digestive Advantage Probiotics Review (visit the article for the full list of references).
“Yes, organic maltodextrin. The fact that it’s organic does not automatically make it healthy. [..] Maltodextrin is, in essence, a sugar – a carbohydrate with zero nutritional value, which raises blood sugar levels much faster than your typical table sugar. Some even go as far as referring to maltodextrin as one of the worst hidden sugars [..]. While being a sugar, Maltodextrin can be the potential root cause of everything from heart disease to cancer, including obesity, eating disorders, diabetes, depression, learning difficulties, hyperactivity, as well as it can just flat out make you stupid.” – Nature’s Way Turmeric Review (visit the article for the full list of references).
So, yeah, I guess needless to say… I’m not for that. I don’t like that.
Third, I wouldn’t call the nutrient forms exactly the best possible. For example, in the USANA Essentials, you’ll find Pyridoxine Hydrochloride (HCl) for vitamin B6, Folic Acid for Folate (vitamin B9), or Cyanocobalamin for vitamin B12. Neither of these forms is the best form possible for any respective vitamin.
For vitamin B6 that will be Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate, for vitamin B9 it’s L-Methylfolate (5-MTHF), whereas for vitamin B12 those will be Methylcobalamin and Adenosylcobalamin.
That said, sure, you have to respect that it provides Mineral Ascorbates for vitamin C or Mixed Tocopherols for vitamin E (most multivitamins don’t do that). However, those alone are not enough to make it a superior multivitamin. Moreover, there are other examples of not exactly the best forms when it comes to nutrients. Which I feel shouldn’t be regarded as the ideal or optimal approach.
I hope that sheds some light into my reasoning. If something needs any further explanation on my part, Jacky, just let me know. I’ll be happy to provide that for you.
Cheers, and have an Awesome Day, ahead!
Carpe minutam/Seize the moment,
Matiss
Hello Matiss! My name is Patrizio Biondo and I’m from Rochester, NY. I’m super thankful for your splendid research and honest dedication to this very important topic of nutrition. This comment is for my benefit, my family member, and for generating overall health awareness.
I am currently taking the men’s rainbow light multi vitamin that you reviewed earlier this year, but I’m in transition to upgrade to Thorne EN as soon as financially possible. However, I also take an amino acid supplement, and about 20 drops of pure CBD oil sublingually, daily. I don’t hear you mention much of amino acid supplementation much on your site; are you presuming that by taking a multi vitamin, a nutritious diet, and practicing overall wellness, that we can obtain the necessary amount of amino acids? Finally, are taking these three, the multivitamin, the amino acid, and the cbd oil sufficient, or is there some other supplementation that I am lacking for optimal health?
By way of request, one my family members who is also keen on health would like some advice on some of her own supplements. Her holistic doctor recommended that she take this Alpha Base formula:
As well as the Metagenics: D3(as cholecalciferol) 10,000 IU and K(as MK-4 and MK-7) 90 mcg supplement. Are these two in competition with one another or a women’s multi? She’s also wondering if you think that supplements, in general, should be blood type specific? Lastly, she’s taken a blood derived food allergy test. Though she’s never experienced problems with eating almonds her entire life, her test showed that almonds come up as an extreme allergen. She’s wondering your opinion on how much trust she should place into the results of those tests, and if any, the relationship between allergens and supplementation?
Thanks a ton Matiss!!
Hey, Patrizio!
You’ve no idea how much I appreciate the kind words of yours. Thank you! <3
As for upgrading the supplement of yours, a quick heads up. I will be putting out a new updated list of the best multivitamin supplements. This will hopefully be by the end of this year. I have the list already established but it takes some time to actually put it all into an article. The list will also include supplements that are of similar expense as the Rainbow Light Men’s One.
A sneak peek so you can look into it right away – try switching up the multivitamin with the Optimum Nutrition Opti-Men. It may cost a little more up front but the cost per serving is essentially the same as it is for the Rainbow Light Men’s One. It does also get into amino acids. It might not be as abundant as the mentioned Lori’s Complete Amino, but it’s certainly there.
In that regard to the first question – a resounding yes! I do presume that there are a nutritious diet and overall practices of wellness in place. I have not produced many if any articles in this regard yet, but it’s what I genuinely believe in and it’s the message I’m trying to spread, mostly visible in the comment section.
All in all, in regards to amino acids I tend to give much value to the supplements that also provide them as they just are so incredibly important. Thus, the additional amino acid supplement is much to your own preference but either way will be (and is) a good addition. The CBD Oil is also really nice, glad you’re aware of its existence. :)
As for the general supplementation (vitamins, minerals, Choline, and Inositol), generally, it really depends on the multivitamin you’re taking. It’s best to always try to go with one that is the closest to the PDVs and then just add through various supplements that which is lacking. Will be updating the article on PDVs soon as well, but the nutrient amounts (vitamins, minerals, Choline, and Inositol) will not change.
In regards to the Rainbow Light Men’s One, I do believe it’s actually too complicated to be adding everything. But don’t sweat it. It can also work very well despite it not fully subscribing to the PDVs (the Optimum Nutrition Opti-Men would work much better though). So essentially it’s not the ideal case, but it can work.
In that regard, I do believe that it would be much more beneficial for you to not focus on all the nutrients, but rather single out few of the most important ones that you could add at this time. Those would be an Omega-3 and vitamin D.
A proper Omega-3 supplement is incredibly important. In that sense, I do strongly believe that a proper multivitamin and Omega-3 supplement are two the most important supplements for one’s health. Period. Omega-3, especially the one derived from fish oil is absolutely crucial for the health of our brains and it creating new connections (everything learning-related, memory etc.). There are numerous studies done on the incredible benefits of this substance.
So if the finances demand of this, I would highly suggest switching that amino acid supplement for an Omega-3 supplement. It will be much more beneficial to your health overall.
A great third option (primary option to strive for), again, if the finances allow is a proper probiotic supplement. This rings especially true if you are aware that your current diet is not the most perfect one.
The importance of this one is due to the fact that it improves gut health and the microbiome of the gut. All of which is extremely beneficial when it comes to the body being able actually to absorb the nutrients you’re taking. And there are also many other benefits to this for the general health as most health issues in truth start in the gut and are only further magnified by the unhealthy gut microbiome.
As regards the inquiry of one of your family members – that Alpha Base Formula is an awesome supplement. And those two of Metagenics are badass as well. As for their compatibility, I’m very sure they’re completely compatible and not disrupting each other in any way. She can easily take them simultaneously.
As for supplements being blood type specific – I do not believe it matters significantly enough if at all for there to be any sort of need to be taking that into account. Surely, there might be some stuff I’m not aware of, but if we’re going that deep, then I do believe the micro-biome of your gut matters infinite times more.
And now to the blood-derived food allergy test – I’m not really sure how accurate that is. I’ve heard that they’re decently accurate but for sure I can’t tell. In our modern-day and age, there is, however, one test that is just purely by nature and very essence of it way more superior than the blood test. It’s the micro-biome test. And these from what I’ve been told are very dead on. And that is only magnified by the fact that the micro-biome is the stuff that is actually responsible for one’s digestion of the food (and in that food allergies).
In this regard there is a company called Viome, which I can only say good things about.
Other than that, I reckon she could also try not eating almonds for about 6-8 weeks and then having a few days where she would eat some almonds every single meal. And evaluate how she feels, meaning determining if she’s feeling any worse when she is having almonds. It should give pretty good insights.
As between allergens and supplementation, it’s a good idea to make sure that one’s supplement does not contain the allergens that that one might be sensitive to. But overall, does an allergen mean you need less or more of a certain nutrient (any vitamin or mineral)?
It is believed there might be some correlation (purely because of the composition of one’s microbiome), but at this point, as far as I know, the science is largely not sophisticated enough to reliably tell us that yet.
I might be wrong though as Viome might have figured this out and I’m just not being up-to-date.
All in all, it is no secret that we all are slightly different in regards to the actual nutrients and their amounts we need for acquiring the best health possible for oneself (purely determined by the composition of micro-biome). However, PDVs are always and especially for the time being a great place to start.
I hope that helps.
If you have any further questions, just let me know, I’ll be more than happy to get back to you as soon as I can.
Have an Awesome Day, Patrizio!
Cheers, and Take Care.
Matiss
Wow, what a lovely reply Matiss, and thank you for your warm and helpful words as well!
I appreciate your recommendations, and they will be ordered shortly through your links! :D
In fact, I’ll make a post on my facebook to help promote your website’s awareness!
If you could do me a favor, I uploaded my website so that you can offer any people you know of to these truly high quality CBD Oil products for their benefit! Maybe write a separate post in the future to help promote CBD awareness if you are feeling generous?!
Some small questions here as well, where do you hail from, and where is your name’s ethnicity derived from? It’s a beautiful name!
In any case, I really look forward to any future service that I can help provide for you! In due time I could contribute to any blog posts, articles, testimonials, or even prayers for you or your loved ones; whatever you need! May God Bless you Matiss!
Hey, Patrizio!
Thank you, I sincerely and deeply appreciate all the support for the website both through links and through awareness raising posts on social media. It really means and helps a lot. <3
And, yes, I can definitely do that for you, it is something I will genuinely need to cover anyway as there really is much to gain from proper quality CBC Oils. :)
I'm originally from and currently residing in Latvia, it's a small country in Europe next to the Baltic Sea. It's also a part of the European Union. The compliment is kindly appreciated.
To be completely honest, there are no words in English to convey how much I appreciate your kindness, Patrizio! <3
Same applies to you, my friend. If you ever need anything, just let me know.
Cheers and have a Great One, Patrizio!
Matiss
1. Basic Nutrients V by Thorne Research.
2. Surrey, UK.
3. You have listed “Extra Nutrients” by Thorne Research as the best multivitamin supplement and their products seem to rank high in your lists. I have been using Basic Nutrients V by them, I would like to hear your thoughts on them. If possible, could you tell me what is the difference between them? If you can, the difference between so many “foundational” supplements in Throne Research.
Hey, Nathan!
This is such an awesome request, yes, I’ll definitely cover it all, looking forward to that.
I will definitely create a separate article for the Basic Nutrients V, but I do feel that the difference between various Thorne Research “foundational” supplements will be largely visible from the updated article on the best multivitamin supplements I will be creating for the 2019 very soon.
If you’re interested, I’ll definitely give you a heads up in regards to that.
As for now, to sum up the difference between the two: Basic Nutrients V is a great choice of a supplement. But the Extra Nutrients is in whole a more sophisticated edition of that. The biggest differences are the added Trans-Resveratrol, Bilberry extract, Quercetin Phytosome, Nicotinamide Riboside Chloride as they can certainly help and improve one’s health even further, but are not in a way the prerequisite of that. On the other hand added Mixed Carotenoids and Iodine is extremely necessary for one’s best health.
There are also some rather minor differences in the amounts of the nutrients that also must be considered, but more into that in the article.
Cheers and Have a Great One!
Matiss
Supplement review request: 1) Garden of Life Vitamin Code Men 2) Megafood Men’s One Daily. Both are multivitamins. I’m from St. Louis, MO, US. I’d like to see how they compare to the other men’s multivitamins you’ve reviewed (in particular the overall assessment of the nutrients).
Hey, Matthew!
Thank you for the request. I’ll definitely get into those, but that will be in quite a bit.
I’m about to finish a major article, I hope to wrap things up in the next couple of days.
Then up next is Mark’s request, after that I desperately need an update for the article of the best multivitamin supplements.
After that I’ll gladly take on those you mentioned. To give you an estimate, realistically I’ll probably get to them in month or so as this is a passion of mine while I’m also working a full time day-job.
I’m sorry that I won’t be able to get to them sooner.
To give you a superficial idea of how they compare out of all supplements that are labeled as men’s multivitamins – Garden of Life Vitamin Code Men should be considered better than the rest (Megafood Men’s One Daily, Rainbow Light Men’s One, One a Day Men’s Health Formula, Centrum Silver Men 50 Plus).
However, if you’re looking for an awesome multivitamin, I would advise not to be considering only men’s multivitamins specifically. Their names surely are captivating giving away the impression that it’s the best stuff for men, however, in truth it rarely has to do with the actual nutrients in the supplements.
Ultimately, I would not consider Garden of Life Vitamin Code Men as an awesome supplement. It’s an okay one, but quite far from great. And there are so many supplements that will offer way more value for the price. The price difference is definitely worth the money. To check out some of the best multivitamins out there use this link (and as I mentioned earlier, I will update the article pretty soon).
Cheers and if you ever need something, just let me know, I’ll be more than happy to help you out!
Have a Great One!
Matiss
Supplement: Prime Labs Prime Test testosterone booster. Where am I: Monterey, California. Why: my friend swears this thing helps him sleep better. I think it sounds like snake oil.
Hey, Mark!
I couldn’t agree with you more that it does sound like snake oil. And the packaging of the supplement only adds to that.
Other than that though, based on a quick overview of the ingredients it does not look bad. In regards to additives it seems to be definitely okay. As for the other ingredients some I’ve never researched before, so I’ll definitely need to look into those before I can provide you with more information.
At the moment I’m working on a huge article much like the article on the best vitamin B12 supplements 2018. After that I will get into this one.
Cheers and have an Amazing Day, Mark!
Matiss
Request a review of alpha men complete multi vitamin thanks