Top 10 Supplement Brands Reddit Users Take: Our Verdict for Each

By Darius Kasiulynas •

Updated on July 16, 2024

Fact checked by Healthnews Research Team

Top 10 Supplement Brands Reddit Users Take And Their Effect — Image by Healthnews

Do the most popular supplement brands offer the most effective products?

That’s the question you may be asking yourself after seeing countless ads online or endorsements by social media influencers.

Supplements are becoming more popular, but it’s often not easy to determine if they actually work.

Many people seek knowledge through online communities such as Reddit. This popular discussion platform allows users to actively share their experiences, reviews, and recommendations.

In this article, you’ll learn what Reddit users are saying about the most popular brands and supplements, uncovering insights and trends that may guide your choices.

However, keep in mind that most of these reviews are anonymous and subjective, which means they don’t always reveal the supplement's true effectiveness and safety. If you decide to try any of these most recommended supplements, please consult with a healthcare specialist or pharmacist.

1. Thorne

Thorne is a reputable supplement brand focusing on people’s health through personalized health solutions.

Founded in 1984, Thorne started offering quality supplements and shaking up the traditional supplement industry. In addition to supplements, the company also provides customized health tests and educational resources.

Furthermore, Thorne’s supplements are NSF Certified, which means they undergo third-party testing for ingredient quality by independent laboratories. This certification guarantees that the products meet high-quality standards.

Thorne's strong reputation comes from working with professional athletes, such as Dwyane Wade, Jrue Holiday, and Daniel Ricciardo.

The supplements typically cost around $15 to $60 per bottle, depending on the type and specific formulation.

What do Reddit users like about the brand

Product quality and customer service. User feedback suggests the brand is reliable and performs thorough testing.

Thorne’s transparency and the customer team’s responsiveness, especially when it comes to providing extra information on dosage and potential side effects.

What do Reddit users don’t like about the brand

Some users have had less-than-stellar experiences with certain Thorne products, like the zinc bis-glycinate.

There are mentions of the l-glutamine powder not providing the expected digestive benefits and causing laxative effects.

A few users found the B complex stress formula underwhelming, saying it didn’t meet their expectations based on the label’s claims.

Some complaints were made regarding the brand’s reluctance to provide certificates of analysis.

Given the number of positive Reddit reviews, Thorne lives up to its reputation for high-quality supplements and excellent customer service regardless of the price. In our view, the main contributing factors that resonate with users the most are the brand’s comprehensive testing procedures and NSF certification. Some products, like the zinc bis-glycinate and l-glutamine powder, fall short of expectations. However, these user experiences can be found with any brand or product.

2. Life Extension

Life Extension is a supplement brand known for its focus on scientific research and top-quality products.

Founded in 1981, the company provides high-quality vitamins and supplements rooted in scientific research. This includes more than 400 products, such as probiotics, multivitamins, melatonin, and specialized supplements for cognitive health and memory.

What makes Life Extension special is its focus on customer service and education. The company offers free nutritional advice, tons of educational resources, and even a monthly magazine called Life Extension Magazine®.

Life Extension supplements are third-party tested and distributed by an NSF-certified facility. Each product also comes with a certificate of analysis, ensuring transparency and trust in quality measures.

The price of the supplements is usually around $10 to $50 per bottle, but there are also discounts and special offers.

What do Reddit users like about the brand

Many users think Life Extension is one of the best supplement brands in the US, comparing it with other top-tier brands like Thorne.

The testing process of every batch of products for purity or concentration.

Users like the fact that the supplements contain research-backed ingredients.

Educational resources are considered to be a useful addition.

What do Reddit users don’t like about the brand

Some users are worried about the company's ownership change, expressing concerns over Life Extension’s takeover by a Chinese firm, which might affect the quality of their products.

A handful of users believe the company isn’t NSF-certified despite being recommended by Consumerlabs, which raises some concerns.

One particular discussion raised concerns about the brand’s potential illegal activities in the past.

Life Extension's focus on scientific research and high-quality supplements earns it high marks from Reddit users. Extensive testing and research-backed ingredients are the most appreciated factors. Some concerns exist about ownership changes and past controversies. If ethics play an important part in your decision-making, this may be worth considering. Despite this, the brand's educational resources and consistent quality maintain its positive reputation.

3. Pure Encapsulations

Pure Encapsulations offers hypoallergenic supplements that may be suitable for people with dietary sensitivities or allergies.

The brand focuses on minimalistic formulations, using only the best ingredients backed by scientific research. Each product is free from common allergens, unnecessary additives, and artificial colors or sweeteners, aiming to ensure you get exactly what you need for your health without any unwanted extras.

Whether you are looking for additional support for cognitive function, eye health, or gut motility, Pure Encapsulations has a wide range of products that might meet your needs.

Pure Encapsulations holds NSF-GMP and GMP certifications, and many of its products are GFCO-certified gluten-free. The brand also conducts third-party testing using accredited laboratories, to ensure the quality of its supplements.

The price of the supplements is typically between $10 and $100, with most in the $20 to $50 range.

What do Reddit users like about the brand

Certified and quality-tested supplements with an extensive selection of products.

Although some users find the products pricey, they believe the quality and consistency justify the cost.

The O.N.E. Multivitamin and magnesium glycinate are frequently recommended for their perceived effectiveness.

What do Reddit users don’t like about the brand

Some users are concerned about the brand being owned by Nestle and whether it impacts product quality.

Others feel the pricing might not be justified given the purity levels compared to other brands.

Reddit users highly regard Pure Encapsulations for its hypoallergenic and high-quality supplements, including products like the O.N.E. Multivitamin and magnesium glycinate. As with Life Extension, there are concerns about high pricing and Nestlé's ownership. However, this is a subjective matter that should be considered individually by every user. We recommend you do your own research or consult with a healthcare professional.

4. Gaia Herbs

Gaia Herbs offers supplements with natural ingredients. Every product is thoroughly tested for pesticides, microbes, and heavy metals. DNA testing is performed to ensure that its herbs are exactly what they claim to be.

To support transparency, the brand provides detailed testing results and certificates of analysis for its products. With ISO-17025 certification, it maintains high standards in the quality assurance processes.

Plus, there’s a strong commitment to organic and fair trade practices for ingredients sourced from around the globe.

Gaia Herbs supplements are normally priced between $10 and $100, depending on the product and formulation, with most in the $20 to $50 range.

What do Reddit users like about the brand

Users appreciate the high quality and potential effectiveness of Gaia Herbs’ products, with many mentioning that the brand’s standards justify the cost.

Products like Rhodiola Rosea and Vitex Berry are particularly praised for their perceived benefits.

Many users recommend Gaia Herbs, citing their commitment to growing their own herbs and maintaining high quality.

What do Reddit users don’t like about the brand

Some users find Gaia Herbs’ mushroom supplements to be overpriced compared to other brands, particularly when considering the concentrations of bioactive compounds and dosage recommendations.

Reddit users appreciate Gaia Herbs’ commitment to quality and natural ingredients. On the other hand, there are some who find the prices high, especially for mushroom supplements. What makes the brand stand out is transparency, which includes sharing certificates of analysis. This is one of the main factors justifying the cost for many users.

5. Nootropics Depot

Nootropic Depot offers supplements designed to support brain performance, including memory, focus, and overall mental clarity.

The brand’s target market includes students looking to improve their study habits, professionals aiming to enhance their productivity, and anyone interested in boosting their cognitive abilities.

Nootropics Depot has an ISO-certified testing lab and conducts in-house testing to ensure high product quality and safety from contaminants. It also provides certificates of analysis for its supplements, ensuring transparency and meeting stringent quality standards.

By offering a wide range of scientifically-backed products, Nootropic Depot caters to those who want to optimize their mental performance and maintain a sharp mind.

Nootropics Depot products cost around $20–75. Many of its popular nootropic supplements, such as Alpha GPC and Dihydromyricetin, are priced in the $20 to $60 range.

What do Reddit users like about the brand

Many people see Nootropics Depot as the gold standard for supplement quality, praising their rigorous testing and innovative products.

The involvement of multiple PhD-level chemists in the product development is seen as a big plus.

Users highlight customer service as one of the main positive attributes.

What do Reddit users don’t like about the brand

Some users have had issues with promotional codes and found customer service responses to be slow and unhelpful.

There are concerns about silicone dioxide in some products, with some users considering it a risky additive.

Reddit users praise Nootropics Depot for its rigorous testing and high-quality nootropic supplements. We believe this positive feedback is reasonable, given the brand’s ISO-certified in-house testing procedures and transparent approach with certificates of analysis. While some users seem to have mixed experiences with customer service and promotional codes, these issues may not necessarily affect the quality of the products. There was also a complaint about the presence of silicon dioxide in some products, but this is not a risk factor because the FDA recognizes it as a safe food additive.

6. Solgar

Solgar delivers high-quality nutritional supplements with leading nutrition scientists to develop innovative formulas inspired by nature and backed by science.

The brand takes pride in making its supplements in small batches, claiming to ensure the finest quality by using only the best raw materials.

With over 300 products, Solgar has earned the trust of millions of consumers worldwide who rely on their "gold standard" vitamins and supplements for better health.

Solgar supplements generally cost from as low as $9.79 to $126. Discounts might contribute to their pricing, too.

What do Reddit users like about the brand

Users feel confident with the brand’s supplements, including their safety and effectiveness.

Products like the Hair, Skin & Nails formula receive specific praise for their quality and observed results.

What do Reddit users don’t like about the brand

Some users are concerned about Solgar being acquired by Nestlé, which has led them to distrust the brand.

Users express positive feedback on Solgar’s high-quality supplements, especially the Hair, Skin & Nails formula. As with previous brands, there are concerns about Nestlé's ownership, so you may want to do your own research and decide if Solgar’s products are appropriate for your personal needs and values. Also, we couldn’t find enough information about the company’s certifications or testing methods. You may want to consider this when looking for the most suitable products.

7. Swanson

Swanson is a supplement brand that has grown from a small, family-owned business to a major player in the health and wellness industry.

Its mission is to help people live healthier lives and continue to innovate and expand its product line to meet the needs of the customers.

To ensure quality and transparency, the brand adheres to GMP certification and performs third-party testing.

Swanson offers a wide range of vitamins and supplements at various price points. The cost ranges from around $6 to $88, with many options available between $12 and $33.

What do Reddit users like about the brand

Many users appreciate Swanson for its affordable prices and good quality, especially for plant extracts and essential vitamins.

Users find Swanson to be a reliable brand with solid products that offer good value for money.

What do Reddit users don’t like about the brand

Some users caution that Swanson uses gelatin capsules instead of vegetable ones in some products, which may not be suitable for everyone.

A few users have expressed concerns about the quality of certain products, suggesting they might be less effective than competitors.

There are mentions of customer service issues and dissatisfaction with some product formulations.

Swanson's affordability and reliable quality make it a popular choice among Reddit users, particularly for essential vitamins and plant extracts. There are some concerns about gelatin capsules and occasional quality issues. However, the brand offers good value for money with a broad product range. Last but not least, Solgar ensures quality and transparency by manufacturing its products in a GMP-certified facility and performing third-party testing.

8. Jarrow Formulas

Jarrow Formulas offers various dietary supplements, including probiotics, vitamins, and products advertised to support energy and vitality.

According to the brand, every product is carefully crafted to meet high standards of effectiveness and safety.

Whether you're looking to support your immune system, improve your digestive health, or increase your energy levels, Jarrow Formulas has something that might help you on your wellness journey.

The supplements typically cost between $28 to $45 per bottle, depending on the specific product and formulation. Some products may be available for less during sales or with discounts.

What do Reddit users like about the brand

The brand's Ashwagandha and other formulas are well-regarded. Users have expressed satisfaction with their effectiveness.

Users appreciate Jarrow's commitment to high standards, even if it means slightly higher prices compared to other brands.

What do Reddit users don’t like about the brand

We weren’t able to find any particularly negative comments about this brand. Some users mention that Jarrow’s products can be more expensive than other brands but generally agree that quality justifies the cost.

This is one of the rare instances where Reddit doesn’t provide any negative reviews about the brand. While the prices may be higher than some competitors, the quality and effectiveness of the supplements justify the cost for most users, leading to overwhelmingly positive feedback. However, this doesn’t mean that the brand offers superior quality than others. If Jarrow Formulas piques your interest, we advise you to do more research and see if these supplements are suitable for your personal needs.

9. NOW Foods

NOW Foods is a family-owned, legacy brand that's been all about healthy living right from the start.

Started by Elwood Richard, the company has built a reputation for offering high-quality, affordable nutrition.

In its product lineup, you’ll find a little bit of everything — vitamins, minerals, essential oils, sports nutrition, and natural foods.

With over 50 years of experience, NOW Foods emphasizes sustainable sourcing and transparency. Its certifications include USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, UL® National Brand Certification Program, and Informed Sport.

Last but not least, the company performs third-party testing to ensure the supplement quality.

NOW Foods supplements generally cost between $10 and $60 per bottle, depending on the specific product and formulation. Sales and discounts can lower prices to around $8 to $50.

What do Reddit users like about the brand

Many users find NOW to be a reliable and affordable supplement brand, consistently delivering good results.

The magnesium glycinate, in particular, is mentioned for its potential effectiveness and quality.

Users appreciate NOW’s broad product range and consistent performance over the years.

What do Reddit users don’t like about the brand

Some users highlighted quality control issues with NOW’s products, leading them to be cautious.

Some users believe there’s inconsistent quality between batches, and some products, like vitamin E, are not as potent as those from other brands.

A few users mentioned that NOW's gelatin capsules can be hard to swallow.

According to user reviews, NOW Foods offers affordable and reliable products. Many people on Reddit report good results, especially with magnesium glycinate. However, there are some concerns about quality control and inconsistent potency between batches. Considering these mixed reviews, we advise you to do your own research to see if the products are suitable for your needs. You might also want to consult with a healthcare professional or a pharmacist.

10. Nordic Naturals

Nordic Naturals started in 1995 with a mission to share the health benefits of omega-3 nutrients.

Founded by Joar Opheim, the company provides quality supplements using evidence-based formulations and cutting-edge technology.

Nordic Naturals offers a wide range of products, from fish oil and probiotics to vitamins and minerals, all designed to help you and your family stay healthy.

The brand is also NSF Certified for Sport®, which means it meets strict guidelines for being free of contaminants and banned substances. Additionally, all Nordic Naturals products are third-party tested for quality and ingredient concentrations by certified laboratories and provide certificates of analysis for transparency.

The supplements usually cost between $21 and $84, with many options available around $32–64.

What do Reddit users like about the brand

Users appreciate Nordic Naturals for maintaining high standards of quality and perceived product effectiveness.

The Ultimate Omega product is particularly well-liked for its observed health benefits.

Many users trust the brand for its consistent quality.

What do Reddit users don’t like about the brand

Some users are concerned that Nordic Naturals is not IFOS-certified, questioning the thoroughness of their purity from adulterant assessments.

There are some worries about potential arsenic content, with some alleged claims of arsenic poisoning linked to their products.

Users appreciate Nordic Naturals for its high-quality omega-3 supplements, especially Ultimate Omega. The brand boasts reputable certifications and performs third-party testing. Customers also have access to the certificate of analysis for transparency. However, concerns about the lack of IFOS certification and potential arsenic content should be taken seriously. If you’re interested in this brand and its products, we advise you to do your own research or consult with a healthcare specialist.

Summarizing Reddit reviews: our thoughts

After analyzing these Reddit reviews, we noticed several key points about supplement brands in general.

First and foremost, users value quality and transparency. They appreciate brands that provide clear information and are thoroughly tested.

Another major factor is affordability. People always try to find good value for money. Products catering to specific dietary needs or allergies are well-received, even if they come with a higher price tag.

On the other hand, issues with customer service and observed product effectiveness are common topics. Many users also care about a brand's reputation.

While Reddit reviews can be helpful, they're just one piece of the puzzle and should be taken with a grain of salt. For instance, the feedback regarding Nootropic Depot’s customer service was both positive and negative, revealing conflicting experiences.

It’s important to do your own research to find what works best for you, and always check with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.