ConsumerLab.com (CL) provides indepen-dent test results and information about health, wellness and nutrition products, which are published on its website and in its book ConsumerLab.com's Guide to Buying Vitamins & Supplements. In the past five years, CL has evaluated more than 1,200 products (from more than 250 companies) that fall into the following categories: health and nutrition products (herbs, vitamins and minerals), supplements, sports and energy products, functional foods, foods and beverages and personal-care products. The charts of the test results make it easy to understand and compare various brands and products.

In addition, companies may voluntarily submit their products to be tested for inclusion on its Approved Quality list. These products bear the CL Seal and have met the following criteria:
• Identity: The product meets recognized standards of quality and the level of quality claimed on the label.
• Strength: The product contains the amount of the ingredient claimed on the label.
• Purity: the product is free of contaminants.
• Availability: The product breaks apart properly so that it may be used by the body.

Consumers also may join as members for access to additional information, such as an extensive natural-products encyclopedia of herbs, supplements, conditions, drug interactions, alternative therapies, functional foods and homeopathy. Subscribers also can log in to learn about recalls and warnings, as well as pitfalls to avoid when buying products. Membership costs a mere $27 a year.

Self-advocacy and education are two important keys to living a healthy lifestyle. Always speak to your medical professional about the vitamins, supplements and other products that can best benefit you. Then visit ConsumerLab.com to arm yourself with the knowledge you need to purchase the best product.