(Updated 7/17/20). Have you heard of the anti-aging supplement Protandim? Maybe you saw a YouTube video of when Protandim was featured on ABC's PrimeTime? Protandim called an “Nrf2 activator” has been said to be the “only supplement clinically proven to reduce oxidative stress in humans by an average of 40 percent in 30 days.” That’s fancy talk for Protandim is a type of antioxidant supplement. Unlike other products, Protandim is said to work by helping the body increase its own natural antioxidant enzymes. Sounds good, but does Protandim work, or is it a scam? These are some of the questions I will address in this review. The good news is there are clinical studies on Protandim. I will use that research in this review and help you understand it. By the end of this review, you'll have a better idea if Protandim is right for you.
Other Anti-Aging Supplement Reviews
What Is Protandim?
Protandim might sound like a drug but it's really a dietary supplement. It's said to combat free radical damage (oxidative stress) by stimulating the production of the body's own natural antioxidant enzymes such as catalase, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione.
The idea goes like this: instead of taking individual antioxidant supplements (like vitamins C, E, etc.) in the hopes they will battle free radicals and combat aging and disease, Protandim is supposed to augment or ramp up your own naturally occurring free radical defenses.
It's a novel concept to be sure.
The supplement website (LifeVantage.com) says the supplement is “clinically proven to reduce oxidative stress to levels of that of a 20-year-old.” Oxidative stress refers to the stress (cellular damage) caused by free radicals.
What Does The Name Mean?
My guess is the name was chosen because the ingredients are supposed to “pro-actively” work in “tandim” to help defend us against aging and disease.
Who Makes Protandim?
Protandim is a product of a company called LifeVantage Corporation. LifeVantage is actually a publicly traded stock on the NASDAQ. Its stock symbol is LFVN.
The company is located at 9785 S. Monroe Street, Suite 300 Sandy, UT 84070. If you google this address you will see a building with “LifeVantage” at the top. That is good. It tells us the company has a physical location.
Contact LifeVantage
Call the company at 866-460-7241.
The Better Business Bureau gave LifeVantage an A- rating when this review was updated. See the BBB file for updates and more information.
Protandim Ingredients
According to the product's website, there are 5 ingredients in each caplet of Protandim which add up to 625 mg:
| Amount Per Serving (1 caplet) | Percent Daily Value |
|---|---|
| Calcium (as dicalcum phosphate & calcium carbonate) 77 mg | 8% DV |
| Proprietary Blend Consisting of the following | 675 mg |
| Milk thistle extract (Silybum marianum) seed. | |
| Bacopa extract (Bacopa monnieri) whole herb | |
| Ashwagandha extract (Withania somnifera) root | |
| Green tea extract (Camellia sinensis) leaf | |
| Turmeric extract (Curcuma longa) rhizome |
Notice in the table above they tell us the source of each ingredient:
- The milk thistle extract is derived from the seeds of the plant
- The bacopa extract is derived from the whole plant
- The ashwagandha extract is derived from the root of the plant
- The green tea extract comes from the leaves of the plant
- The turmeric extract is derived from the underground stems (rhizome) of the plant
Other Ingredients
The supplement label also tells the supplement has these other ingredients:
- Microcrystalline Cellulose
- Croscarmellose Sodium Silica
- Modified Cellulose
- Stearic Acid
- Magnesium Stearate
- Maltodextrin
- Medium Chain Triglycerides
These other ingredients play no role in the effects or benefits of the product. They make up the caplets and/or help with the delivery of the ingredients into the body.
I want to commend the LifeVantage company for sponsoring much of the research below. It's rare to find a product with so many clinical studies.
Protandim Research
Protandim is different from a lot of supplements because there really is clinical research on this product. Below is a summary of the Protandim research with links to the studies for those who want to see them for themselves.
Because scientific studies can be wordy and complicated for most people, I will summarize the study and put the research in the proper context to make it easier to understand.
2016 Protandim Research
Study
The Effect of Protandim® Supplementation on Athletic Performance and Oxidative Blood Markers in Runners.
Study summary: In this investigation, researchers tested if taking Protandim (675 mg/day) for 90 days would improve 5K running performance and reduce TBARS. The study involved 38 runners who were randomly given either Protandim or a placebo.
Results: After 90 days, those taking Protandim (1x/day) showed no improvement in running performance compared to those taking the placebo. In addition, Protandim did not reduce TBARS or alter levels of antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) or glutathione peroxidase (GPX) during resting periods. The researchers report however that in those over age 35, Protandim improved SOD twice as much as those taking the placebo.
See the full review of this study
Study
Longer lifespan in male mice treated with a weakly estrogenic agonist, an antioxidant, an α-glucosidase inhibitor or an Nrf2-inducer.
Study summary: Here, researchers sought to determine what effect various compounds had on extending the life of mice. Protandim was one of the compounds tested. The other compounds tested in the study were fish oil, ursodeoxycholic acid (a bile acid, used to dissolve gall stones), and the diabetes drug, metformin. Different mice received the different compounds for their entire lifespan.
Beginning at 10 months of age, mice received Protandim at a dosage of 600 parts per million (ppm) in their food. This amount was chosen because it was similar to the Protandim dosage used by people. When the mice were 17 months old, the dosage was increased to 1200 ppm because this was thought to be better.
Study results: researchers noted male mice getting Protandim had a 7% increase in average lifespan. The supplement did not lengthen the life span of female mice. The researchers also point out that while the average lifespan was increased, the maximum lifespan did not increase. Regardless, this was a mouse study.
2013 Protandim Research
Study
Study
Upregulation of phase II enzymes through phytochemical activation of Nrf2 protects cardiomyocytes against oxidant stress
Study results: Researchers noted that mouse heart cells treated with Protandim increased the production of an antioxidant/anti-inflammatory enzyme called Heme oxygenase 1 (HO-1) as well as Nrf2. This was a test-tube study using isolated mouse heart cells.
This investigation is derived from a Masters's Thesis in 2010. The title of the MS Thesis is “UPREGULATION OF HEME OXYGENASE-1 AND ACTIVATION OF NRF2 BY THE PHYTOCHEMICALS IN PROTANDIM .” It is not unusual for a quality MS thesis or other graduate work to go through the peer-review process and be published.
2012 Protandim Research
Study
Antioxidants for the Treatment of Patients with Severe Angioproliferative Pulmonary Hypertension? Published in the journal, Antioxidants in Redox Signaling.
Summary: This is a rat study. Protandim increased antioxidant enzymes in rats, protecting the hearts from damage.
Study
Phytochemical activation of Nrf2 protects human coronary artery endothelial cells against an oxidative challenge published in the journal, Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity.
Summary: This is a test tube study. Human coronary (heart) artery cells were treated with Protandim (20 micrograms per milliliter) or placebo (ethanol). All cells were then treated with hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to induce free radical damage. Cells treated with Protandim showed less cell death than those getting the placebo.
Study
Protandim does not influence alveolar epithelial permeability or intrapulmonary oxidative stress in human subjects with alcohol use disorders.
Summary: This investigation showed the supplement did not work. To be fair, this was a strange study. Researchers looked at 30 alcoholics . The researchers stuck tubes down the throats of the subjects to take fluid samples from their lungs. They randomly gave the people 1350 mg of Protandim per day or a placebo, for a week. They tested for various things to see if Protandim helped the people. It didn’t.
I don't know how relevant this study is to whether Protandim works or not. I mentioned it because it was a human study. For a much more in-depth review of this study—written by a doctor—see the review posted on ScienceBasedMedicine.org.
2011 Protandim Research
Study
Oxidative stress in health and disease: the therapeutic potential of Nrf2 activation.
Summary: This is a test tube study. Essentially, Protandim altered cellular pathways involved in antioxidant enzyme production and colon cancer, cardiovascular disease (heart disease), and Alzheimer's disease. This is encouraging, but, humans are more complicated than isolated cells. This study doesn’t prove the supplement reduces the risk of any of these diseases.
Study
The role of manganese superoxide dismutase in skin cancer.
Summary: This is a mouse study. Here, researchers reported the supplement reduced tumor growth in mice. For the most part, this appears to be a review of previous research relating free radical damage to the development of skin cancer.
Study
Protandim attenuates intimal hyperplasia in human saphenous veins cultured ex vivo via a catalase-dependent pathway.
Summary. This is a test tube study. Basically, a blood vessel was bathed in Protandim. Researchers noted the supplement reduced the thickening of vein cells.
2010 Protandim Research
Study
The Dietary Supplement Protandim Decreases Plasma Osteopontin and Improves Markers of Oxidative Stress in Muscular Dystrophy Mdx Mice.
Summary. This is a mouse study. Mice were genetically created to have muscular dystrophy. They were given Protandim at a dosage similar to what is recommended for humans. After 6 months, the mice given Protandim showed a 46%reduction in the free radical breakdown of fat (TBARS). TBARS stand for ThiobarBituric Acid Reactive Substances.
The greater the TBAR level, the greater free radical damage. Thus, reducing TBARS is taken to be a good thing. This doesn't prove Protandim helps muscular dystrophy. People with muscular dystrophy should discuss this with their doctor for greater insights.
Study
The chemopreventive effects of Protandim: modulation of p53 mitochondrial translocation and apoptosis during skin carcinogenesis.
Summary: This is a mouse study. Protandim reduced damage to the mitochondria of mouse cells. of this study. The mitochondria, often called the “powerhouse” of the cell, make energy —and makes free radicals in the process. The mitochondria are a major area of anti-aging research.
Study
Chronic pulmonary artery pressure elevation is insufficient to explain right heart failure.
Summary. This is a rat study. Researchers tested if the supplement helped pulmonary blood pressure. After 6 weeks, Protandim did not reduce pulmonary artery blood pressure or the number of lung lesions. These researchers did say “our data point to a cardioprotective effect of Protandim.” But, this is a vague statement.
2009 Protandim Research
Study
Protandim, a fundamentally new antioxidant approach in chemoprevention using mouse two-stage skin carcinogenesis as a model.
Summary: This is a mouse study.
Study
Synergistic induction of heme oxygenase-1 by the components of the antioxidant supplement Protandim.
Summary: This is a test tube study. Cells treated with supplements showed significant increases in glutathione, an antioxidant compound. This is the study LifeVantage lists as “proof” Protandim increases glutathione levels by 300%. It may raise glutathione 300% – in a test tube – but does the same effect occur in people?
2006 Protandim Research
Study
The induction of human superoxide dismutase and catalase in vivo: a fundamentally new approach to antioxidant therapy.
This is a human study. 39 healthy men and women, age 20-78 years were given Protandim (675 mg per day) between 30 and 120 days.
Study Summary:
1. Protandim caused a significant increase in the antioxidant superoxide dismutase (SOD) in red blood cells.
2. TBARS declined by 40% after 30 days
3. SOD in red blood cells increased by 30% after 120 days
4. Catalase decreased by 40% after 120 days
5. There was a non-significant rise (4.9%) in uric acid.
6. No change in CRP levels was seen.
7. No change in HDL, LDL or triglycerides were seen.
Protandim Research Summary
Here is a quick summary of the research:
| Study Year / Title | Study Type (Human, mouse, etc.) |
| 2016 Research | |
| The Effect of Protandim Supplementation on Athletic Performance and Oxidative Blood Markers in Runners | Humans |
| Longer lifespan in male mice treated with a weakly estrogenic agonist, an antioxidant, an α-glucosidase inhibitor or a Nrf2-inducer | mice |
| 2013 Research | |
| Upregulation of phase II enzymes through phytochemical activation of Nrf2 protects cardiomyocytes against oxidant stress | Mouse heart cells |
| 2012 Research | |
| Antioxidants for the treatment of patients with severe angioproliferative pulmonary hypertension? | Rats |
| Phytochemical Activation of Nrf2 Protects Human Coronary Artery Endothelial Cells against an Oxidative Challenge | Test tube study |
| Protandim does not influence alveolar epithelial permeability or intrapulmonary oxidative stress in human subjects with alcohol use disorders. | Humans |
| 2011 Research | |
| Oxidative stress in health and disease: the therapeutic potential of Nrf2 activation. | Test tube study |
| The Role of Manganese Superoxide Dismutase in Skin Cancer | Mice |
| Protandim attenuates intimal hyperplasia in human saphenous veins cultured ex vivo via a catalase-dependent pathway | Test tube study |
| 2010 Research | |
| The Dietary Supplement Protandim® Decreases Plasma Osteopontin and Improves Markers of Oxidative Stress in Muscular Dystrophy Mdx Mice | Mice |
| The Chemopreventive Effects of Protandim: Modulation of p53 Mitochondrial Translocation and Apoptosis during Skin Carcinogenesis | Mice |
| Chronic Pulmonary Artery Pressure Elevation Is Insufficient to Explain Right Heart Failure | Rats |
| 2009 Research | |
| Protandim, a Fundamentally New Antioxidant Approach in Chemoprevention Using Mouse Two-Stage Skin Carcinogenesis as a Model | Mice |
| Synergistic induction of heme oxygenase-1 by the components of the antioxidant supplement Protandim. | Test tube study |
| 2006 Research | |
| The induction of human superoxide dismutase and catalase in vivo: a fundamentally new approach to antioxidant therapy. | Humans |
To be fair, it's possible I may have missed some research. I'll update this table as I become aware of new research.
My Thoughts On The Research
While Protandim has been the subject of several clinical investigations, only 3 of them involved humans. They are:
- The 2006 study (click to see study)
- The 2012 study (click to see study)
- The 2016 study (click to see the study)
Protandim And Weight Loss
Can Protaindm help you lose weight? There is no good evidence for this. None of the above clinical investigations was about weight loss. To the credit of LifeVangage, they do not market this supplement for weight reduction.
Protandim And Multiple Sclerosis
Is this supplement worthwhile if you have Multiple sclerosis (MS)? Some have put forth the idea that disruption of free radical stress – via stabilizing Nrf2 (the stuff this supplement is supposed to improve) – might help MS. So, is there any proof? There was an investigation presented in 2011 at the 5th Joint triennial congress of the European and Americas Committees for Treatment and Research in Multiple Sclerosis Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
The title of the presentation was: Nrf2 activators: a novel strategy to promote oligodendrocyte survival in multiple sclerosis? Here, researchers treated rat and human oligodendrocytes with several compounds ― one of which was Protandim ― and then exposed the cells to a chemical to create free radical damage.
These researchers noted Protandim was seen as “the most potent inducer” of Nrf2 antioxidant enzymes defenses. In other words, Protandim helped the most.
This is intriguing, but it's not the same as giving it to people with MS to see if their symptoms improved.
There is also some evidence that stimulating Nrf2 might reduce cellular inflammation via inhibition of NFkb. Inhibition of NFkb is also something another supplement – called Anatabloc – was supposed to do. Currently, though there is little human proof for Protandim improving quality of life in those with MS.
See the Anatabloc review.
Protandim And ABC Primetime
In 2005, this supplement was featured on ABC's Primetime news show. In this segment, ABC correspondent John Quinones met with Dr. Joe McCord, a respected researcher whose name appears on many of the Protandim clinical studies. According to his Wikipedia page, as a grad student, Dr. McCord was involved with the discovery of Superoxide Dismutase, an important free radical savaging enzyme. Here is the ABC Primetime segment :
Basically, John Quinones gets a blood test to measure his TBAR level (an indicator of oxidative stress). He's given Protandim for 2 weeks and then returns to the lab where he has his blood tested again.
Dr. McCord tells John Quinones the supplement caused a “45% reduction” in oxidative stress and goes on to say this is the level seen in a “newborn baby”. The ABC Primetime segment is often used as proof the supplement really works. But, as I see it, one problem is John Quinones doesn't have is blood tested by an independent lab. This is bad science in my opinion.
Of course, the Primetime segment is interesting. But it's been over a decade since this segment aired. You'd think such an impressive result would warrant a follow-up. I wish Primetime and John Quinones would do a follow-up story.
Update. Dr. McCord is now involved with the PB125 supplement.
Protandim And The FDA
In 2017, the FDA reached out to LifeVantage to inform them they considered Protandim to be a drug and not a supplement based on claims made about it as an NRF2 Synergizer. Basically, the FDA was saying the claims being made at the time, made people think the supplement could treat disease. This is something not allowed under US supplement regulation. This may be the reason for the dramatic change in the LifeVantage website and marketing. There are no more claims about the effects of the supplement. Instead, the company now calls itself “a wellness and personal care company” and makes references to “bio-hacking.”
Do Doctors Endorse Protandim?
While the supplement is not endorsed by the American Medical Association (they don't endorse any supplement), I'm sure some physicians believe in it – and others who don't.
Does Protandim Have Caffeine?
According to the product website, each tablet has 1.8mg of caffeine. That's much less than in a cup of coffee and most energy drinks. I don't think this small amount would keep people up at night, but because we are all different it might be wise to not take it close to bedtime.
Is It Kosher?
No. this supplement is not kosher or organic. It is however made in the US. That is good.
Protandim Side Effects
Are there any Protandim dangers out there? I don't think so. I believe this supplement is pretty safe. I am not aware of any side effects. That said, here are a few general things you might want to think about if your not healthy. This list is not complete:
- Start with less than the recommended dosage for the first week to see how you respond
- Speak to your doctor/ pharmacist if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- Stop taking the supplement at least 2 weeks before having surgery
- Speak to your doctor /pharmacist if you take any prescription drugs like blood thinners
One study noted the supplement might raise uric acid levels (by 4.9%). Would this be bad for those who suffer from gout? Currently, there is no direct proof gout pain is increased by Protandim. See the review of Tart Cherry Juice for more info.
While allergic reactions are likely uncommon, LifeVantage does mention this possibility in some people. Specific symptoms mentioned on the LifeVantage website include:
- gastrointestinal disturbances (i.e., stomach ache, diarrhea, vomiting)
- sometimes as a headache or rash on the hands or feet
Stop taking the supplement if you experience these symptoms.
The company website warns against using the supplement if you are undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer. This is likely because of the unknowns of combining antioxidants with some cancer therapies. If you have cancer or are getting treatment for it, ask your doctor. I'm glad the LifeVantage company informs people about this.
LifeVantage also stresses the importance of talking to a doctor if you have any autoimmune disease like arthritis or Type I diabetes. I'm not aware of any problems in anyone but I appreciated the company mentioning this.
How To Measure Your TBARS
Remember TBARS are a measure of free radical damage (oxidative stress) of cells. Protandim is said to reduce TBARS. The TBAR test is also called a Lipid Peroxidase test. Ask your physician about this test. For those who really want to know if Protandim is working, getting this test done first—and a month later— might be a good idea. I'm not sure if insurance covers the test or not. Talk to your doctor for more information on this.
Aged Garlic Extract also has some evidence it might reduce TBARS (click to see review)
TrueScience Brand
True Science is a brand name under which various beauty products made by the company can be identified. Products offered under the True Science brand include:
- Shampoo
- Scalp serum
- Facial cleanser
- Eye serum
What is PhysIQ?
PhysIQ is the brand name associated with various fitness-related products. This brand includes:
- Fat burn supplements
- Prebiotics
- Whey protein
- Appetite suppressants
Protandim For Dogs
Protandim Dogs (formally called Canine Health) is for pets. According to the LifeVantage website, this supplement contains 150 mg of the same ingredients as Protandim – as well as omega 3 fatty acids and collagen. The website goes on to say: “Reducing oxidative stress in dogs may reduce many of the disorders associated with aging in canine.” To support this, the organization states a 3rd party animal health company has found the supplement reduces oxidative stress in dogs.
Protandim vs. PB125
PB125, by Pathways Bioscience, is another supplement whose makers claim can reduce TBARS and activate NrF2. PB125 is the supplement by Dr. Joe McCord and associates. Recall Dr. McCord used to be associated with the LifeVantage company.
While PB125 is said to be the next generation of NrF2 activators, no studies have yet compared these supplements to each other to see which is better. The ingredients in both products are different for the most part.
See the PB125 Review for much more information.
Protandim vs. Tru Niagen
The Tru Niagen supplement boasts research showing it can raise NAD+ levels in humans. Tru Niagen is based on nicotniamide riboside a form of niacin (vitamin B3).
The idea of slowing aging by raising NAD+ is different than Protandim. So far no clinical studies have compared these supplements to each other. While the original Protandim does not contain nicotinamide riboside, the Life Vantage company does offer another version called the “NAD Synergizer” which contains niacin.
Protandim vs. Elysium Basis
Basis by Elysium is a popular anti-aging supplement that contains very different ingredients than Protandim. Like Tru Niagen, Elysium Basis also is an NAD+ booster supplement. So, which is better? Unfortunately, there are no head-to-head studies yet.
See the Elysuim Basis Review for more insights.
Protandim vs. SeroVital
You've probably seen TV ads for SeroVital. How does Protandim compare to SeroVital? Both supplements contain different ingredients and are touted to work differently.
While Protandim is said to help boost our bodies antioxidant enzymes, SeroVital is marketed to raise human growth hormone (HGH).
If we just look at the research, Protandim wins hands down. The makers of Serovital only have one study.
Where To Buy Protandim
This supplement is not sold in stores like Walmart, Target, Cosco, CVS, Walgreens, Kmart, or BJs. It's also not sold at GNC or Vitamin Shoppe. Rather, it's mostly purchased from LifeVantage independent distributors.
It is also available online as well although when using a distributor, you may get the individualized attention you might not get by buying it yourself.
Protandim Price
According to the LifeVantage website, a one-month supply (30 capsules) costs $59.99 retail. If you order it through a LifeVantage distributor, it costs $49.99 – and that is on a monthly basis. In other words, that means auto-shipments. If you want to purchase one month only to test drive it first, speak to your LifeVantgage independent distributor.
Protandim Yearly Cost
Let's round the price up to $50 a month. In one year, the supplement would cost you $600. Shipping and tax may be extra. If you only want to order 1 bottle to try yourself, you can get it on Amazon too.
My Suggestions
If you can afford it, go ahead and give it a try for a month or so and see if you feel any better. If you really want to know for sure, get your TBARS measured first.
Remember, exercise will also reduce TBARS too.
Protandim Pro & Con
Here's a quick summary of what I liked and didn't like. These are my opinions. Yours may be different.
| Pro | Con |
|---|---|
| There are clinical studies on Protandim | Not all the studies are on humans |
| Company has been around a long time | Not available in stores |
| Company sponsors research on Protandim | Expensive |
| Lots of hype about benefits |
Does Protandim Work?
While I'm intrigued at the prospect of slowing down aging, I'm can't say for sure if Protandim works or not. The research is intriguing but in my opinion three's not enough human research yet to draw conclusions. So, does Protandim really work? Let's just say I'm looking forward to more human clinical studies.
Here is it is on Amazon If you want to check it out/see what others are saying
Yes We Do Need Free Radicals, We Have On An Average Day Over 3,00000000000000000000000 Free Radicals Bombarding Our Cells, In Some People More, That Is Three Hundred suxtillion. protandim Reduces 40% Not 100% Therefor We Still Have Free Radicals, Because We Do Need Some, Just Not That Many. And For Those Who Call This A Pyramid! Yes It Is, Just As Every Business, Church, Schools Are. You Have A CEO, Mgr, Asst, Staff, PYRIMID! Principal, Vice Principal, Staff Teachers, Janitors.PYRIMID! and So On,Everything Is Structured In The Form Of A Pyrimid.
Zina, So are you saying that it was Life Vantages intention to leave us some free radicals, to do us some good?
A business organizational chart is shaped like a pyramid, therefore all businesses are pyramid schemes??
Here is a great article which spells it out for you:
http://www.thesmallcompanyblog.com/TheBlog/2009/02/9-signs-youre-involved-in-a-pyramid-scheme/
I’ll copy number 9 for you:
“Sign #9: They Spend More Time Training You How to Recruit Than How to Sell Products.
Contrary to the Network Marketing-based claim that “all businesses are pyramid schemes,” there isn’t one legitimate company that requires new employees to immediately begin searching for five replacements for themselves. But this is exactly what MLM companies do. MLM owners know that the shelf life of a single recruit is less than a year, so the focus becomes building the network first, and selling the products later. Worst-case, you and the people you recruit make the minimum investment in ’starter products,’ and the pyramid pulls in thousands of dollars without you ever making a legitimate sale.”
I’d like a simple clarification. I am going to start taking Protandim to see if it helps my arthritis, terrible back problems and fibromyalgia. But I read your links and re. the one about alcohol dependence, does it mean that if you have a few drinks each evening, this product won’t help you?
Mary, no that’s not what the study said. In the alcohol study, they were only looking at one specific thing. I don’t see any proof that a couple of drinks at night would interfere with Protandim. For what its worth, I do hope it helps.
Joe,
THANK YOU for all the hard work you have done on Protandim. I was recently approached to be a “brick” in the pyramid by a friend. Being a veterinarian, it was also suggested the dog supplement would be a great seller. After 2 days of research… well lets just say I’m dubious at best!
I am a fan of anti-oxidants feeling that free radical damage does cause a lot of bad things (work in a genetic lab in my undergrad days while a buddy worked in an Alzheimer’s lab working on an antioxidant and I saw, OBJECTIVELY, the difference between the control rats and subject rats… WOW). I am also aware that my urine is probably the most expensive on my block (I take a LOT of supplements, just in case).
Question: I have NO PROBLEM being a guinea pig but want a rational sounding board and you seem ideal. Protandim claims that it is their “Magical formula” that works so taking individual supplements will be ineffective and possible HARMFUL <>. I want to try Protandim to see if I “feel” a difference but realize I am as susceptible to the placebo effect as any, SO…
My experimental protocol is thus. I stop taking all supplements for 30d (wash out period). I get the Lipid Peroxidase test done. Take Protandim for 30d and repeat LP test. Wash out for 30 days then take the LP test again to confirm I am “back to starting.” Then take the individual supplements for 30d then repeat the LP test. Wouldn’t this be a fairly OBJECTIVE test?
I am looking for input from both sides of the argument. Why will this work / not work? Luckily I do have a little disposable income so don’t mind paying the $180 or so per test as I am probably disposing that much down the toilet anyway and IF I were to go down the Protandim highway (which is exceedingly unlikely,) I’d be dropping a LOT more coin. I will try to find a medical colleague to help reduce the cost of my experiment if possible ;-).
Please help me fine tune this experiment as I would prefer to do it right the first time.
Thanks!
John
P.S. Would prefer to keep my full name private as I do work in the public sector and don’t want any Protandim clients upset with me, although rationally, they should be thanking me for doing some HONEST research IMHO. Thanks Again!
John,
that sounds like an interesting study you are willing to do. In addition to the lipid peroxide test and CBC I would also measure
CPR
Telomerase
Homocysteine
SOD
glutathione
Those were what I was going to specifically look at when I was thinking about testing protandim on myself.
It sounds like what you plan to do is good and I will look forward to seeing what happens.
Good Afternoon Joe, Thank you for your reply and recommendations. Good call on the CBC. I will do a Health Profile (CBC, Min-Chem) panel at the test points as well (make sure my liver and kidney aren’t being hit too hard). This I can do for about $15 each with the labs I routinely use. The other tests you mentioned, CPR, Telomerase, Homocysteine, SOD, glutathione… not familiar with these and not run at the labs I use. I can draw my own blood and ship.
Do you have any recommendations of labs I can send them to / possible cost of these other tests? Though I have SOME disposable income, I am “just” a veterinarian and not a “real” doctor with the BIG bucks 😉 Thanks again! -John
John
SOD is an antioxidant enzyme that protandim is supposed to elevate
glutathione is an antioxidant compound as well
CRP is a marker for cellular inflammation
Teoomerase is an enzyme involved in degradation of telomeres – the caps on chromosomes. Reduction in telomeres is correlated with cellular aging.
As for labs I dont have any specifically. If you have access to a university lab they can probably run these tests. if you present it to the head of the department it might even be a good MS thesis product for a student 🙂
Thank you! Good idea reference the Universities. It’s only a N of 1 but better than nothing I guess and it may be cheaper. I’ll try to find a school doing some antioxidant research locally. Let me dig around and I’ll keep you posted as warranted… Thanks Again – John
John, true, N of 1 is better than nothing 🙂
Joe,
I’m doing research on this product after I Met a person who brought it to my attention. I was conducting a demo for a nutritional liquid supplement that I will keep nameless, I am not here to sell anything.
What compels me was all the people from all walks of life who are looking for something. Many have chronic pain, poor digestion, can’t sleep, the list is long. What they all seem to want and need are honest answers. I recommended that they talk with their doctors.
I will be interviewing the distributor and need to know about the company and the product. I want to know the positives and the negatives so I can give the best information available. If this product can help them even in the slightest way, it can begin a wellness campaign in their lives. I told many of them “There is no such thing as a MAGIC BULLET ” you only have one body, and you need to take care of it and it will take care of you.
I see the problem with the politics of business, I have no issue with a MLM, I do have a problem with lying, so if there is an ingredient in question I want them to know. Should I become a distributor, I have to believe in the product and be transparent and not let the business aspect interfere with the best interest of the customer.
Demoing the supplement opened my eyes, and that I could have a positive influence on the wellness of someone’s life.
Thank you,
R.Leon
I take and like Protandim and am not here to shill for them. I just wanted to say I thought this article was good and unbiased. As an informal meta-study, I thought it presented the information and issues clearly and asked valid questions.
The article also avoids the reflexive debunking of other “skeptic” sites, sites I find to be mostly BS.
In regards to why there aren’t there more human studies… First, if LifeVantage paid for them, claims of bias would arise. Second, independent university studies may be limited by money, expertise, facilities or other factors from doing human trials. The overall point is still valid…more human trials need to be done to address the precise claims of LV.
Good job. I’ve bookmarked this site.
HealthBuff, thanks I appreciate that. I can only say I personally would have no problems with LV supporting or conducing their own research provided that it was peer reviewed and published. As for universities doing research, its just my 2 cents but I don’t think this would be as expensive as some might think. It wouldn’t cost much to grab 10 college students (or better yet middle age teachers) and do a pre /post test of telomerase, CRP or SOD to see if anything changed after a month of use. I’d think studies like this would be relatively easy to do given the resources of a University.
Joe,
My son was diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes on March 17th. He is 12 years old. While in the hospital his Pediatric endocrinologist started discussing oxidative stress and how many diseases are caused by it. At that time with the doctor’s okay I decided that I would start my son on Protandim.
My husband, other son and myself were already taking it. I am happy to say after one month on Protandim his insulin needs have dramatically decreased. He was requiring up to 60 units of short acting insulin daily.
Now one month later he uses 8-12 units of short acting insulin a day. His blood glucose average after one month is 112. My older son started taking it because he is an athlete who had shoulder surgery. He was living on ibuprofen. After 2 weeks on Protandim he no longer needed ibuprofen and his mood was so much better and he had more focus on school. It has been a great supplement for my family.
Deborah, what you say is interesting and I’m glad you say its helping your sons and family. Because of claims like yours I just find it ever more strange that all those scientists at LiveVantage have never attempted to test Protandim on diabetes, pain or anything else. As Ive said before, just because there is no evidence doesn’t mean something doesn’t work, but if I were working at at LV, I’d be listening to what people are saying and start doing research on these things.
Joe … As I understand this is a more recent Protandim Human Study.
Perhaps if it is indeed what it is represented to be … you may want to check it out for your readers. Protandim and MS Oct 2011
http://registration.akm.ch/einsicht.php?XNABSTRACT_ID=137548&XNSPRACHE_ID=2&XNKONGRESS_ID=150&XNMASKEN_ID=900
JD, thanks for this. I did a quick search for this study but this appears to be an abstract of a study and not a published peer reviewed study. Even the link you provided says “abstract.” as a rule abstracts might not be peer reviewed before they appear in journals. That said I will try to investigate this further next week and if I do find it to be published I will add it to my review.
This study has already been discussed. It is not new, not peer reviewed or published, and was not conducted on humans.
It is the study Protandimites try to use to (illegally) imply that their curry pill is a safer and more effective treatment than BG-12 (a recently approved drug).
@ LisaRobb – I’m curious as to your connection to Protandim or LifeVantage, past or present. Also, how does one “illegally imply” something? I’m an attorney and, I’ve got to be honest, I’ve never defended someone against a charge of illegal implication.
Dizzypru, read my previous comment to “Gary” on April 8. It spells out my experience with LV.
http://business.ftc.gov/documents/bus09-dietary-supplements-advertising-guide-industry
“A. Identifying Claims and Interpreting Ad Meaning
1. Identifying Express and Implied Claims
The first step in evaluating the truthfulness and accuracy of advertising is to identify all express and implied claims an ad conveys to consumers. Advertisers must make sure that whatever they say expressly in an ad is accurate. Often, however, an ad conveys other claims beyond those expressly stated. Under FTC law, an advertiser is equally responsible for the accuracy of claims suggested or implied by the ad. Advertisers cannot suggest claims that they could not make directly.”
Thanks for taking the time to review the product. I sat through one of those “information sessions,” which was actually intended to recruit distributors. I was shown the John Quinones video, and one of my first thoughts was, “Isn’t there anything newer than 2005?” I remember when resveratrol was profiled on 20/20.
I think if there were proof that any of these supplements provide real benefits, they would be widely recommended by doctors who don’t have a financial interest in the product. I feel like Protandim is the new resveratrol with more organized marketing effort behind it.
I don’t have a problem with what’s in the pill. I’d consider any of the ingredients taken separately or together to have some possible anti-inflammatory benefits, and if not, they wouldn’t harm me. I do have a huge problem with the price tag. It takes chutzpah to pack a few easily-had, inexpensive ingredients into a capsule and charge $40 a month minimum for the convenience. And the notion of ingredient ratio being important to the effectiveness. Please. That just sounds like they’re afraid someone won’t do the obvious and buy the ingredients to take on their own.
I hope some of the folks who are going to have a before-and-after blood draw will come back and report their results. I’d love to know what they show and whether there is any agreement among results from users, different labs — none associated with LifeVantage!
Joe … Keep up the good work. one thing I realized
Reading all the comments is, once you lay it all on the table, it makes it easier to see what dont belong.
Thanks Chappell!
Haha, Wow, I just spent soooo much time reading through these comments.
I don’t have a whole lot of interest in Protandim, just casually researching it because of a cooworker who uses it. But I do have a huge interest in PEOPLE and studying behavior as I am a counselor by profession. So naturally I had to read on when I saw a few ‘intense’ comments.
Joe congrats, love the non-bias nature of the article. That is HUGE when drawing an audience to read it. I would have turned away had I any hint you were bias. ALSO, I just love your calm responses to all these radical Pro-Protandimers. Shows that you are confident in your opinion and stance as “non-bias” (which is the truth). Never once have you said anything negative towards Protandim or even these crazy people, despite their colorful language.
The people who have been for Protandim who have commented here have done an excellent job at portraying the company, of which I’m very unimpressed.
Cory, I appreciate your kind words and for you taking the time to read through all the comments. You have a lot of endurance 🙂
I thought you had a very well written article and one of the first I’ve seen that takes a factual look at the history of Protandim rather than either being on one far end of the spectrum singing the praises endlessly or the other viciously attacking it as a scam alongside all other MLMs, health products, organized religion, and the belief that we really did land on the moon.
I would be very interested in civilly discussing the science behind Protandim with you. I started off as a skeptic who tried Protandim about 7 weeks ago with the attitude, ” If I feel better after a month I’ll keep taking it, and if I don’t then I won’t”
After one week I started to feel something but figured it was the placebo effect, after two weeks I was convinced it was not the placebo effect, after three weeks I was so blown away by how good I feel that I signed up as a distributor in week four, by week seven I feel even better.
The main reasons that I continue to take it are that my joints don’t hurt, my back doesn’t hurt, I’m less physically fatigued, and I’m less mentally fatigued. Now unlike you it didn’t occur to me to have tests done prior to starting on Protandim, but now I certainly am curious as to why the effects have been so profound and would love to either rule out or prove whether or not they are a figment of my imagination.
Could you give me advice on how to go about doing that since I do not have control medical tests indicating what shape my body was in prior to starting Protandim?
As for why I signed up to be a distributor, that is because of the reduction of physical pain in my life, and I am hopeful that my friends and family I share this product with will have equally beneficial experiences.
If I make extra money off of it or a career out of it that would be nice, but having been a distributor, and not a very aggressive one at that, for only a few weeks, I’m still keeping my day job and am much more concerned with whether or not I am helping people by doing what I do.
Groch, thanks I appreciate the kind words. Since you mentioned you were taking Protandim for 7 weeks, I’d suggest stopping it for a month to let it clear out of your system. Then get a full blood test by your doctor. Additional tests I’d say to also request include:
CRP
Homocysteine
Glutathione
Lipid peroxidation
SOD (super oxide disumtase)
TBARs
TSH levels and Thyroid antibodies
Nitric oxide
Telomerase
Catalase
These are not normal tests doctors run, so you would have to ask to have them done.
After you have these values, start taking protandim again as usual and then, a month later, get the same blood tests again. Seeing if there are differences in these and other values might shed some light on some of the things you are feeling.
Thank you I will look into getting these tests, and go one further I’ll take the tests before I stop taking the Protandim, after it has had time to clear out of my system, and then a third time after I’ve started taking it again.
So far I’ve had only one potential customer who actually thought to ask me what happens if you stop taking it, and ever since then, I’ve been dying to know myself so I can answer that question.
Depending on the cost of these tests it may take me a while to afford them, but I will certainly strive to get this experiment underway.
Grouch, sounds good. I will look forward to learning about the results.
Joe, Thank You!! And God Bless You!
Yeya, thanks, I really appreciate that.
I am taking Famara, it is a estrogen blocker, for breast cancer. Would Protandin interfere with the drug Famara?
Anonymous you need to talk to your oncologist about whether Protandim is ok with your medication. Show them the ingredients and see what they think. if they don’t know show the ingredients to your pharmacist and see if they know. Im not aware of any protandim -estrogen blocker research.
“Nutrients and herbs cannot be patented themselves.”
This is something I have seen often. It is a misleading statement giving the impression that Pharmaceutical companies have their hands tied as they cannot maximize their profit and give people a safe product at the same time. It is true that Nutrients and herbs cannot be patented.
Pharmaceutical companies are very interested in what nature has to offer, Lipitor is a good example of this. The active ingredients are put into a tablet at an exact dosage in synthetic form; this is not possible when it comes from nature as the dosage is random.
I would assume that Protandim does not display the concentration of the active ingredients on the bottle because they have no idea how much is in each tablet due to seasons, where they were grown plus many other variables affecting botanicals. Treating serious ailments using natural products as medication is a game of chance.
According to Wikipedia “ STANDARDISATION HAS NOT BEEN ACHIEVED YET:” for the concentration of active ingredients of herbal medicine , obviously not submitted by a Protandim distributor.
Why do they write “all natural” on bottles of multivitamins? A field of tobacco gently swaying in the breeze is also All Natural; they should be able to write “All Natural” on a packet of cigarettes.
WOW! Im so sorry to say this, but Joe first off YOU get paid off everyone who wastes their time looking at your comments that are simply really lame. Every-time someone CLICKS on this RIDICULOUS website YOU get paid to drag people down.
I cant believe I am here wasting my time typing this either for your benefit! Let me tell you something. Protandim works for me and I have seen a huge difference in my health and depression. All these stupid comments that MLM is a scam really? Ya I guess that is why Warren Buffet does it, and Donald Trump also. Oh yes but those guys are stupid right? And $600 to get in? Let me hit on this. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO OPEN A BUSINESS THESE DAYS?
Yes i DID become a distributor and it was the BEST decision I ever made. I made $3000 my 1ST MONTH. Ya I bet some are saying i am lying and thats ok because I could care less what you all think. After 2 years doing this business I am making over $40,000 every month RESIDUAL. THAT MEANS EVERY MONTH JOE. Oh yes but mlm is a scam I forgot.
Listen, I will never be on this lame website EVER AGAIN because it is simply a waste of my time. But for those of you who think $600 is WAY TOO MUCH MONEY? REALLY? This company has saved my life! And in my opinion they have GREAT INTEGRITY, HONESTY, and am blown away on what they do for their people. Look up what it cost to open your OWN BUSINESS MORONS! ( Im am speaking to those ones only that state $600 is a TON OF CASH). The CHEAPEST ONE IS MOLLY MAIDS! Yes for just a bit more than $15,000 you can be a maid!! Sound like fun? GO DO IT! I can guarantee you this. You will NEVER
retire in 2-5 years.
So have fun and please join Molly Maids! I see people retiring from their “JOBS” all the time from this business OK JOE. OH I forgot it is a scam right? I know I might sound rude, and quite frankly I hope I do but JOE YOU ARE A MORON. ANYONE WHO DOES THIS AND MAKES MONEY DOING THIS IS A SCAM! SO JOE, guess what? MLM is NOT a scam YOU ARE!!!!! GET A LIFE DUDE! No one cares what YOU have to say! You are NOT a DOCTOR, or a SCIENTIST, YOU are SIMPLY A FOOL! To everyone who reads this PLEASE just do yourself a favor. Read the book from Robert Kiyosaki. It is called why I recommend NETWORK MARKETING. Please do this and listen to someone with more than just half a brain like JOE.
OH yes, I bet JOE will say ROBERT KIYOSAKI is a scam too right? OH YA remember Warren Buffet too, he owns 3 MLM companies. He is a scam too right? Thats all I have to say, but I really do feel sorry for you JOE.
Im actually laughing right now because I MAKE MORE MONEY THAN YOU DO AND HELP PEOPLE! You do not help people YOU DRAG THEM DOWN. Like it or not that is what YOU do.
Anonymous, you never read a comment here where I said MLM was a scam or me dragging anyone down, so your tirade against me on MLM is not valid.
In your other comment -which I deleted because it was more ramblings that were not true – said that ” people should go to pubmed” and not to my site to find the studies. But you obviously did not read my review because, if you did you would see that I listed and linked to the very studies that you tell people go find for themselves on pubmed.
Despite your tirade, This is not a website or post about MLM. This is a website about the honest, review of dietary supplements according to their science. I reviewed protandim according to its science. I showed people the studies and put them in perspective. I’m sorry if you don’t like that.
It doesn’t matter how much money you say you make because what you make selling protandim may not be the same as what others make if they sold protandim. That is why I recommend that people try to determine what the average protandim distributor makes.
If you read my review – and the comments – you will see that I have been honest enough to say that lack of evidence does not mean protandim does not work. I am very open to the possibility that it might. But, just because you say you make $40,000 per month does not mean it works either.
All through your tirade against me, you mention money more than how protaindm can help people. I find this very telling.
Since writing my review I’ve been able to interact with other protandim distributors. They talk about the science but never want to really discuss it with me. When I try to talk to them about their studies they:
1. attack me – as you have.
2. stop talking all together – as you probably will.
3. try to refer me to Joe Mccord or some other scientist in LV.
I’d really like to discuss the science of protandim with you. Would you like to have a civil discussion here about protandim so people can learn from us both?
Joe Didn’t say MLM’s were a scam, I did.
Hi Joe,
Don’t know if it’s too late, but I can ship you a bottle if you still want to undergo your own personal tests.
Cory, thanks, I really appreciate that but I could not tell you when I would be able to get to it now. Im swamped at the moment and there is something else Ive been pondering experimenting with.
No problem…figured I’d offer. I get tired of seeing “pushers” and people bickering about why they’re right. I’m a distributor myself, but the whole point is just to educate people and let THEM decide what they want to do.
I’m curious about what else you’re thinking about trying
Thanks Cory. As for what Im thinking about experimenting with, I have not totally committed to it and so I’d like to keep it a secret for now. I may or may not. Im not sure at this point.
I gotcha. Well, keep my up to date on what you decide!
Wow, Anonymous. I came to this link/discussion to better inform myself of this product because I am interested in taking it. And I have to be honest…you, along with all the other pro-protandum commenters (who ironically are anonymous. Why are you not willing to link your name to these AMAZING results you are experiencing? That’s pretty telling in itself.) You pretty much insult my intelligence with your uncivil and rude comments.
Not to mention, you come across as being uneducated, mainly on this product. If you truly are trying to promote protandum, I would advise you to stick to your current clientele (who seem to making you millions) because, you have now just deterred me further away from taking it myself.
CeraE
I too came to this site to become more informed. When I was demoing a nutritional supplement, my eyes were open to the need of so many people that have tried so many products, that are JUST in chronic pain, they just want to feel better.
Personally being a contract worker and having a background in sales and merchandising, it truly has my attention, however some of the comments I read do not do credit to this product. It could be the greatest product ever, but sincerity and a genuine need to help others is paramount. If one has a quality product, the customers will return. No yelling or making outrageous claims, just straight talk.
Making money from your work (this is anyone) is a great thing. And if you can be very successful at it, the better. Just show a little consideration, $600 dollars is a lot of money to me and maybe others, I never throw money away, I can’t afford it. I’m seeing this as an opportunity, no hype, just a way to add to my work portfolio and pay my bills.
CeraE… I, like you, want to become educated on Protandim. so I say continue doing your research, I found You tube to be informative, with information on health and wellness. I don’t know what ails you, but I do hope you find a product that is safe and works for you.
Best wishes
Ronald Leon
I totally agree with every word Joe has said! He has shown the studies and the proof in black and white! Not to mention, I do not care to take anything which has been brutally tested on any innocent animal-even if it is a mouse or rst! LV will NEVER get a dime out of me! They are just ripping consumers off!
On another note, I do suffer from Chronic Pain Syndrome, Fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, and insomnia. I am always on the lookout for anything which may help me. I have been pressured into trying Protandim, but have always thought it was a big hoax!
There are NO magical pills out there or all the physicians I have seen would be doling them out! pressured into trying
And by the way, I have not and will not try Protandim!
Beth, I had 2 of those “conditions” and in a week of taking protandim( is the only thing I have done diffrent) all is gone! I feel new. Now doing reserch to enroll in the company. Try it, you might not regret it!
I have been taking Protandim for about 6 weeks. I’m not a distributor, nor will I become one. I’m not interested in selling it. I decided to take it for 6 months to see if I could see any changes in my “conditions”. I have noticed the following: lessening of my headaches, improvement of my fibromyalgia aches and fatigue,more energy, and my nails are stronger which I didn’t expect.
In addition,I can also tell you that a friend who suffers from epileptic seizures has not had ANY episodes since taking protandim. Even though he’s on meds for the seizures he was still experiencing them prior to taking protandim.
Whether its been tested on humans or not I don’t care. I also dont care what it’s been tested on. If it wasn’t for lab rats, mice, etc we wouldn’t have the advances in medicine we all enjoy.
We all have our own opinions of the effectiveness of this product, so take it or not, I know it works for me.
Joe, I might of missed it in the article, how long did you take it for?
Claire, I did not try protandim however if you read the comments you will see how I offered to perform an entire battery of tests on myself at my own expense if a distributor gave me a free month supply. After the distributor wanted impute on where I had my blood tests done, I rescinded my offer.
AAAAAAAAAAAAAhhhh I see well then that makes sense you have never taken it…. Wow I would never talk so much smack about something I have never tried my self …your loss 🙂
Anonymous, AAAAAAAAAAhhhhhh yourself. Don’t blame me for not trying it. I did try to test protandim myself and was going to have a whole battery of tests on myself -at my expense. I only asked for a free month supply from a distributor but the person was not willing to do that unless they had impute on where I had the blood testing done, which I would not agree to.
The fact that distributors can’t answer the questions I pose about the research is your loss.
I have been a Distributor of Protandim now for 2 months, with AMAZING results for my family, and the customers who I’ve put on it. I am a believer! All this debate back and forth is nonsense – this company cares, and by the way, I’ve made $1000 in my first two months, without a lot of effort. I have a M.S. and own my own successful mental health counseling practice. I’m NOT an idiot 🙂
If you want to know how Protandim works, get the blood test for yourself – it’s not expensive, and you’ll have irrefutable proof one way or another. As for me and my family, we plan to be with this company a LONG time. My husband will never stop taking Protandim – his results were that dramatic.
Deborah, did you or your husband have your blood tested pre/post protandim?
Deborah I would bet that if you took the
the same pre and after tests after using the
five herbs in any ratio together you would
get the same results making Protandim
An over priced grouping of herbs!
Deborah…..if you have a M.S. and are not an idiot, then you should know that a blood test won’t give you irrefutable proof of anything. You need a placebo controlled study.
This must be LV’s new marketing strategy. Rather than risk doing a properly designed placebo controlled study themselves, they are asking consumers to go get their own lab tests done. They know full well that most potential customers will see this as the company being confident that the product “works,” and they won’t bother to go to the time, trouble, and expense of doing that. They’ll just buy the product and trust that it works.
Of the few that do go to the trouble of getting lab work done, they know that 1 in 3 will see positive results just from the placebo effect alone, will be thoroughly convinced that Protandim “works”, and will sing its praises far and wide…..and most likely become distributors.
Can this company get much sleezier? It’s up to the company to prove that a product works, not the consumer. You don’t charge $1.50 a pill for a few pennies worth of ingredients, and then expect your customers to prove that it actually does something!
Yep! I can get get these five herbs and organic at that..100 times the strength..for daily dose for 6 months for $40!! Now..distributors will say that it has to be the right ratio..which is posted online..and again..if the five herbs have to be exact.. What happens if you drink a cup of green tea …. That blows this ratio bit all to hell and then also..adding potential toxic magnesium stearate to the formula..and that changes the testing results even farther…I’m out! Ill take the five herbs together at 100 times the strength for $40!!
Hi Joe,
I don’t normally read or reply to blogs, but I saw yours on a Google search and found the comments to be very interesting. I took Protandim for a few months back when GNC carried it and I didn’t notice any results because I didn’t really have any issues. I have several issues now and started taking it again two weeks ago with amazing results.
I’ve recently been diagnosed with prostate cancer, high cholesterol and high blood sugar. I also have allergies that make me stuffed up at night and snore. In addition, I’ve been taking a prescription ointment for itching from little bumps on my skin. I’m getting surgery next month to remove the prostate and am on medication for the cholesterol and high blood pressure. I think adjusting my diet and losing a little weight will help with the blood sugar issue.
I decided to try Protandim again because it’s supposed to have healing properties and the ingredients are said to be natural. I was also impressed by information I found on how the Nrf2 activator in Protandim was shown to regulate genes in human cells and control the effects of free radical oxidation and inflammation.
After taking Protandim for only one week I noticed what I felt were some significant changes. My itching and skin bumps are gone and I no longer use a prescription lotion. I no longer snore at night and my allergies are gone (no stuffiness). Also, I’m not taking a glucosamine, chondroitin & MSM supplement anymore for back pain and I’m able to move around more easily than in the past. I feel more energy, can breathe deeper and have a better range of motion in my neck.
I feel that Protandim has helped me a lot and I’ve started telling everyone I know about how much it’s helped me. Through talking about my Protandim experience with others, several people have said they want to try it too. Now I’m wondering if I should just order it for them or if I should become a distributor and let them order it themselves.
I know that Protandim or any supplement will have different effects on each person, but I really think a person with issues like these or similar issues should try Protandim to see if it helps them or not. The only negative thing I see with Protandim is that it has a magnesium stearate ingredient it. Can you tell me if you feel there’s enough magnesium stearate in Protandim to really be harmful? Thanks for listening.
Gary
Gary, Im glad you are seeing some results and sorry to hear about your prostate cancer. show protandim to your oncologist and see if its ok to take while you are getting radiation therapy (if you are getting any of that after your surgery). This is wise to do for all supplements.
since you mentioned glucosamine, talk to your urologist about chondroitin sulfate. I usually recommend caution with chondroitin until we know how it effects the prostate. read this review for more info.
good luck with the surgery and keep me posted on how things go.
Nice infomercial (under the guise of asking about the level of magnesium stearate), Gary.
No, the only negative thing about Protandim is asking desperate people to waste money on a placebo curry pill instead of seeking or following medical advice from an actual MD.
Have you actually looked at the human studies done on this miracle curry pill?
It’s funny how when something is sold through MLM, magical “healing properties” are activated which previously were not there. It doesn’t seem to matter that there are absolutely no credible human studies done to back up any of the claims being made about this product.
Two more things to keep in mind:
1. The placebo effect works in about 1 in 3 patients.
2. Most minor ailments will resolve on their own anyway over a 3 month period. I’ve seen distributors telling people to give Protandim 3 months of a trial. That amounts to about $150.
Why not try ALL the supplements available on the GNC shelves for whatever ails you? There’s just as much reason to try them as to try Protandim; the only difference is that they aren’t illegally being hyped by an army of MLM distributors.
Hi LisaRob,
I take it you haven’t tried Protandim yourself or if you did had no obvious issues where you could measure the results. I will still use Protandim because of the results I’ve received from it. And by the way, I’m not a distributor at this time either so my posting wasn’t a guise for anything. I think it works for me and it’s not just in my mind. Thanks.
Gary
Glad it works for you Gary..I have ten people
on it for 2 months with no results!
Since you are such a believer please answer
these questions 1. Why not organic? 2. What
tests have been done with the five ingredients
together w equal parts ratio? 3. What if I
drink green tea..doesn’t that change the
results of patented ratios of Protandim
since one of the ingredients is green tea? 4. Why
use a questionable binder like magnesium
stearate? 5. In the hyped up tests..why is the
amount different then the amount used
in the tests? 6. Was the testing with Protandim
including magnesium stearate?
Hi Ron,
I’ve only been on Protandim for a couple weeks and I don’t have an answer to your questions. I guess only people with issues feel results, but it doesn’t mean those who don’t feel results aren’t getting benefits.
Gary
Actually Gary, I did try Protandim about two years ago. I was having blood pressure issues and high cholesterol (and no, I was not/am not overweight). I was told this famous doctor invented it and I was given the link to the Primetime video. I believed all the hype, so I took it for about 3 months. My blood pressure went down right away and I, of course, was convinced it was because of Protandim.
But then the distributor who sold me on the product started making more and more outrageous claims about how this was a “medical breakthrough” and that it works in “ALL MAMMALS” (funny how distributors always put that in all caps….as if that gives the claim more credence). My scam radar went off because this person had been involved in other quacky MLM companies previously, and frankly, the claims were ridiculous.
I did some research and found that the supposed inventor of this miracle supplement is NOT on the patent. I pointed this out, but was told the story about Myhill bringing 40 ingredients to McCord, who then whittled it down to the final formula. I was told that McCord didn’t want to take credit because it was Myhill’s original idea, and that PhDs aren’t really interested in being on patents. I was told that McCord was really the “formulator”. That turned out to be a lie too.
Still in scam detection mode, I did more research. I even contacted a researcher from UMN to verify a quote about Protandim being a “killer application” for diabetes. The doctor, Dr. Bernhard Hering, got back to me immediately and absolutely denied saying that. Within a few days of contacting him, the LV training blog with that quote was taken down. I can only assume the doctor (or his lawyer), had them remove it.
Anyway, I’ve done extensive research into this company (more than listed here), its history, and its “research”. I quit taking it at the end of three months, but continued looking into the company just out of curiosity.
But what about my blood pressure? All I can say is that it most likely went down initially due to the placebo effect. It never went back up, and I don’t know why it was so elevated in the first place, except for perhaps being stressed about a few things in my life.
Seriously…..this isn’t a medical breakthrough…..”The Emperor Has No Clothes”…..it’s just some curry thrown together when the deal to sell LV’s original peptide product (CMX-1152, which was to be called Protandim), fell through. The EXACT same claims were being made about that product….but it was nothing even similar in composition. Within a few months of the CMX-1152 deal falling through, miraculously, they (Myhill) came up with this herbal Protandim.
Its just a few simple ingredients, not a medical breakthrough. Curcumin activates Nrf2…..that’s been known for quite some time….way before LV slithered into existence. Nrf2 activation is a complex area of study. Don’t let distributors lead you to believe otherwise.
Hi LisaRob,
Thanks for the update. At first I wondered if my results were in my mind too, but I’ve never been able to sleep at night without getting stuffed up. I feel much better and can actually breathe more deeply. I was told I have to stop taking it until after my surgery though because Tumeric is a blood thinner and that’s not good for surgery.
I may try another blend I saw at Natural Grocer’s that was recommended by a nutritionist who was familiar with the ingredients of Protandim. I think the Tumeric, Ashwaganda and other ingredients would benefit me no matter what supplement form they are in so I’ll definitely try others. I was turned off by all the claims they made in the past and have heard the same about Joe’s claims as the creator of Protandim so I hadn’t tried it for a few years.
I may see what other supplements with similar ingredients do for me after my surgery and then decide if I want to continue with Protandim or not. But I feel it did help me with my allergies, back pain and skin problem so I don’t think it wasn’t a waste of time and money for me. Thanks again.
Gary
Hello Gary,
Im sorry about the prostate cancer. To answer your question about magnesium stearate look at this link.
wellnessresources.com/health/articles/the_facts_on_magnesium_stearate/
Great research Joe & thanks. I have used each ingredient separately & I like them all which is not a scientific test,however,more economical.I tend to run the opposite direction when media hype is involved & do the research. Interesting to observe that even with your expositon,some are still in it for the money,& some aren’t.
Thanks Grumpy bear.
Dear Joe,
Thank you for such a timely response. Your article put my mind at ease and your reply to my comment let a bit of relief and hope into my heart. The timing of all this has been intense for me personally. Saturday evening my husband accidentally gave Lily way, way too much of her quick-acting insulin. (He thought it was the long acting) so after a fun day full of Easter treats we starting feeding her as MUCH sugar as possible.
Testing her every 30 min, he stayed up until 12:30am testing and feeding our little flower, then came to bed, thinking she was past the danger. Call it Mothers intuition, divine intervention, but not fate….I woke up @ 2:30am, slammed my hand down on my husbands chest to wake him up and insisted he test her again. Grumbling, he did……she was @ 86. He gave her more sugar then, per my insistence, brought her to bed with us. I stayed up the rest of the night holding, testing and feeding her.
Anyhow, this is the 3rd time good old ‘Google’ has brought me to your site. It’s now on my home screen. Keep up the excellent work. You are a skilled writer, I hope you won’t mind when I sing your praises on my blog.
One more thing…..if you catch wind of the study you mentioned gaining approval for a human study, we would be first in line!
Best Wishes,
Nicole Jensen
Nicole, glad your daughter is OK. I will keep you posted if I hear anything more on that type I diabetes research. Sure thing, feel free to mentioned me on your website. I would be flattered 🙂