Key takeaways
- Start with serving size.
- Check ingredient amounts.
- Understand proprietary blends.
- Read warnings and allergens.
- "Supports" vs "cures" claims.
A supplement label tells you a lot if you know where to look.
Parts of a supplement label
| Section | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Supplement Facts | Serving size, ingredients and amounts |
| Proprietary blend | Total weight; individual amounts not shown |
| Other ingredients | Fillers, flavors, allergens |
| Directions | How and how often to use |
| Warnings | Who should avoid it, interactions |
| Claims and disclaimer | "Supports" claims with FDA disclaimer |
| Manufacturer info | Name, address, contact |
Claims: what's allowed
Allowed
Structure/function claims, such as "supports healthy blood flow," with the FDA disclaimer.
Not allowed
Disease claims, such as "cures erectile dysfunction" or "treats low testosterone."
Red flags for men's products
- Promises to work "like a prescription"
- Instant results claims
- No ingredient amounts or list
- No company contact details
- Sold only through unofficial sellers
Reading Black Wood Tea's label
The Black Wood Tea pouch lists its key claims, "Supports healthy blood flow," "Helps elevate T-levels naturally" and "Improves energy levels & endurance," marked with an asterisk that refers to the FDA disclaimer. It contains 30 tea bags and is labeled as a herbal tea supplement.
Tip: bring the label to your doctor or pharmacist to check interactions with your medicines.
Sources
- U.S. FDA – "Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide."
- U.S. FDA – "Structure/function claims."
- NIH ODS – "Dietary supplements: what you need to know."
Common questions
What is a proprietary blend?
A mix listed by total weight without individual ingredient amounts.
What is a structure/function claim?
A claim that a product supports a body function, such as healthy blood flow.
Can supplements claim to cure ED?
No, disease claims aren't allowed on supplements.