Before You Trust “Clinically Proven,” Ask Four Questions

By Mark J Kaylor

You’ve heard it in an ad, maybe more than once: “clinically proven.” It sounds like the matter is settled. Sometimes it is. But no one checks that claim before it goes on the label. Regulators can step in later, and that can take years.

The good news is that four quick questions can tell you a lot.

Who paid for it? Most supplement research is funded by the companies that sell the product, and some of it is excellent. Funding is a reason to look closer, not to dismiss a study.

How many people were in it? A study of 20 people can hint at something. A study of 2,000 can tell you much more.

Was it published in a peer-reviewed journal? That means other scientists examined the methods before it went public. It isn’t a guarantee, but an “internal study” that was never published should raise an eyebrow.

Has anyone else found the same thing? One study is a promising start. When independent researchers repeat it and get similar results, you’re on firmer ground.

These questions help you spot weak claims, and they also help you recognize the companies that did the work. Those companies are usually glad to show you.

So when you see “clinically proven,” ask: proven by whom, in how many people, and has anyone else found it?