None work. All claim to work. How can there be an entire industry based on pure horseshit? I'm a very profreedom libertarian on many things, but how can this be allowed? How is GNC not closed down?
PS, I don't need to hear about the one in 10,000 exception.
The US congress led by Sen Hatch (R) of Utah, backed legislation to
insure supplement companies could avoid full disclosure .
http://www.hatch.senate.gov/public/index.cfm/2014/10/hatch-marks-20th-anniversary-of-the-dietary-supplement-health-and-education-act-dsheaThe above link is only one example of this, but the trend has moved to keep GOV out of inspecting most supps.
In my opinion, without some form of inspection, the industry becomes the wild west and buyer beware.
Imagine the meat and poultry industry without GOV meat inspectors?! Talk about run away disease and illness!
Obviously, there were some pros and cons of this kind of "hands off" , buyer beware policy.
1. I now buy most of my supplements at big box , discount stores, like Wal-Mart or Target.
They tend to offer the best prices and are big enough to avoid useless gimmick supps .
If a start up/new supplement brand is found fraudulent, it likely won't make much noise in the media.
That's why Gorilla Balls mass powder can be total fake crap. BUT, it still can cash in with meatheads, then folds without much trouble.
2. I stick with basic, proven stuff and avoid gimmicks when possible. I use:
Body Fortress or Six Star Whey Isolate protein, avg Wal-Mart price is around 18-20 bucks per 1.5 lbs and it tastes good.
Fish Oil tabs ( burp free) , Vit/min tabs , Various thermogenic (tabs and or powders)
BPI - Vortex is sold at Wal_mart, mixes easy , tastes good and gives me a pre workout lift.
I also use Glucosimine/Chondrotin tabs for joints.
If a supp doesn't help, I simply stop buying it and chalk it up to experience.
3. For my testosterone levels , I am on prescribed Androgel and have been for the past decade.
Test levels stay in the 600's mg/dl and no side effects and decent levels on my 20 indicator annual blood work.
Supplements were meant to be just that, a SUPPPLEMENT to add a bit more to an existing good diet.
FOOD in the form of quality lean meats, dairy grains , fruits and veggies is still the most important aspect of your nutrition.