When purchasing supplements, your best resource is the label. It lets you know precisely what you’re introducing into your body. Yet most people get perplexed by supplement labels with all the numbers, percentages, and scientific terminology. Don’t fret—this guide will educate you on how to read supplement labels like a pro so that you can make wiser decisions for your well-being.
1. Begin with the Serving Size
All supplement labels start with a serving size. This indicates the amount of product that constitutes one dose. Always read serving size before you compare various products.
2. Consider the Active Ingredients
This part lists the primary nutrients or chemicals in the supplement. Look at the ingredients that address your health or fitness target.
3. Examine the Amounts and Percent Daily Value (%DV)
– Amount indicates how much of the nutrient is contained in a serving.
– %DV indicates how much of your 2,000-calorie-per-day requirement it fulfills.
Something that is 100% DV is your entire day’s requirement.
4. Be Aware of Proprietary Blends
Certain supplements use a “proprietary blend” without specific measures. This implies you do not have an idea of how much of each ingredient you are receiving.
Watch out—select brands that are honest with their ingredient quantities.
5. Notice Other Ingredients
Labels also list inactive ingredients such as fillers, sweeteners, coloring, or preservatives. If you desire clean supplements, select products with fewer extra additives.
Last consideration: Be an Informed Consumer
Learning to read supplement labels saves you money and protects you from low-quality products. Always check serving size, ingredients, and certification before purchasing.