(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
A friend or now x friend started selling this stuff.. it is a pyramid scheme in every which way. She doesn’t shut up about it and now I can’t stand being around her.. everyone of my friends are also turned off by her. She is a pitch man and doesn’t want to sell it as much as get you to sell it for her so she gets a cut.
Once you sell to all your family and friends you have to start ‘preaching’ day and night and nobody wants to hear this stuff at a get together or to a potential boyfriend or business friend. The product is not proven as said.. go to the youtube and watch Penn and Teller about pyramid schemes.
Joe,
I learned about this product last week…for $700 I could become a distributor! Now, I would get a credit (maybe the initial product)
which would lower my “investment” to the $500 range.
My interest was in product line for animals. Quite frankly my interest has evaporated since reading your review. Thank you for providing facts!
Denise
Anonymous, you are very welcome.
The up regulation of sod enzymes in our body is the primary reason why protandim is so good. It’s that simple. One molecule of sod can react and kill up to a million free radicals per second, every second. And the fact that johs blood in the abc report wasn’t taken by an abc staff concludes what? You sound overly skeptical to reach that far. His, along with many other test showed a 40% average in the reduction of oxidation stress. I think the only pointless fact that you left out is that you didn’t even try protandim. Obviously…
Max, My site is predominately about the science behind supplements. As such, I go where the science leads me. It’s as simple as that.
I think you have your facts mixed up. The ABC Primetime segment was bad science. I told you why in my review.
The SOD protandim research stems from lab rat and test tube research. Can yo show me a study that specifically looked at protandim and SOD levels in humans? Nope. Not yet you can’t.
Bottom line Max, You cant talk about how the science backs up protandim for humans, when 85% of studies involve lab mice and test tube studies.
If I tried Protandim and said it didn’t work, you wouldn’t believe me. You know you wouldn’t Max! You would say “everybody is different” or you’d say I’m lying. Either way, it doesn’t matter because if I tried it and said, it worked or did not work, then that would just be a testimonial. Testimonials are not science. The protandim sellers (which I assume you are one) drape drape themselves in science, but yet when push comes to shove, they don’t have the human science to back up what they are saying – and so they fall back on testimonials as their “proof.”
As I’ve said I’m very open to being totally wrong about Protandim. A basic rule of science is lack of evidence does not mean something doesn’t work. So, just show me the science. Show me better research.
Who said that the ABC Primetime show was science? It was merely a person who decided to put a product to the test. You could easily do the same, but I would not call that science.The real question is why are you so critical of a show like ABC Primetime? Do you think that this was a plot to mislead the public? Are you accusing Dr Mccord and his staff of distorting the results? The fact is that his blood had a 45% decrease in TBARS in 2 weeks. If you are so skeptical of the results, why don’t you do the same exact test on yourself? I think you could afford $40 to do all your followers such a great service. We all know you really care about us. Ha Ha
Bob I can tell you are probably a protandim distributor so I’m not going to argue with you – and I’m also not going to deal with your insults either. All you have to is read the comments to know how I responded to other prodandim distributors. If you do, you know I made the offer to try protandim but declined when the distributor wanted impute on where I would get my testing at. It would have probably cost several hundred dollars for me to do this as I was willing to do an entire battery of tests -I was even going to pay for a TBAR test but was told by the distributor that test was not available to the public. Again read the comments Bob.
Bob, have you had your TBARs tested? I’d be interested in seeing those lab tests if you did.
ABC Primetime is not science but it is in my opinion a popular way used to introduce people to protandim. I have nothing against network marketing as a rule. There is no conspiracy here either. I simply pointed out the error Primetime made when they had Johns TBARS measured. That is not to malign anyone but simply to point out that the segment would have more meaning if an independent lab did the tests. Also, the Primetime segment was from several years ago. I personally wouldn’t mind seeing a recent study of a 100 or so people who had their TBARS measured.
I’m done arguing with protandim distributors who only want to yell and scream without backing up what they say with published peer reviewed research. If you want to talk about the science, I’m all for that. If however all you want to do is try to insult me, then we are done.
Hi Joe,
I’m finding all the discussion about Protandim extremely interesting. I posted last week and told you I’d attending a meeting this week — and I did — last night. What I find is that the distributors are mainly interested in signing up other distributors.
The meeting I attended showed the ABC video and presented it as “proof” positive that the product works. Now, I’m innately skeptical about MLM approaches to anything, but hey, if the product helps, I have no problem with the way the product is marketed.
However, what I did find intriguing is that the distributor conducting the meeting said nothing at all about how a “regular” customer can obtain the product. I actually had to ask that very basic question.
The other thing I found interesting is that the pubmed site is presented again as a site that provides proof the product does what they say it does. And, I’m fairly certain that most distributors have not done their homework and have discovered, as you have, that very few human clinical trials have been done.
Here’s my take on the whole discussion: if the product helps people, great. I am also a bit skeptical of the big pharma companies that control the pharmaceutical industry. The government and the industry are in bed together and it’s extremely difficult to have research projects funded. So, I bought a bottle and I’ll be a guniea pig for a month. I have an as-yet undiagnosed auto-immune disorder and I’ll see if I have any relief of my symptoms in the next 30 days.
If no results, well, then I’ll know it didn’t help me. Fundamentally, I think the science behind the research is sound, but people are not taking the extra step and doing their homework. In a nutshell, Joe, thanks for doing the homework for me. I was able to sit through the meeting with somewhat of a skeptical eye, but also keeping an open mind toward the possibility that maybe I’ll be helped.
K.Lee, thanks for keeping me posted and I really do hope it helps you.
Joe, I know you say that you are not slamming the product, but the fact is everybody that visits your blog understands it is not a positive or promoting site for Protandim. Why is that? Why don’t you talk about vitamin e or something? Why are you so interested in Protandim, but do not take it? MONEY!!!
There are so very many supplements out there, but you choose the ones that drive traffic. It seem very clear to me that you know negative news sells, so even if you could care less about Protandim it pays the bills. I get it Joe. People that read your blog probably think that you are some kind of good Samaritan, but in actuality you are just trying to make a buck. That’s okay, but you are hurting people who are trying to make a living in Life Vantage.
Most distributors encourage people to visit http://www.pubmed.gov and do research. Is that misleading anyone? How many MLM companies have any real published research at all? Very few!!! Why don’t you leave Protandim alone and find some other product that has no research or validity at all?
I also find it very Fishy that you choose to post the replies you want and omit the others. I have not used any profanity or bad words, but I have yet to see my replies. Why the censorship?
Pistol, I’m not censoring anybody. If I was cwhy am I posting your very critical words? You believe what you want.
I actually reviewed protandim because several people contacted me and asked me to review it. Truth is, I never heard of protandim until people told me about it! Most of the products I review are the result of people who contact me!
You said “Most distributors encourage people to visit http://www.pubmed.gov and do research.” So what’s wrong with showing people that research? That’s what I did. From what I’m learning, distributors make people go to pubmed and do the work for themselves to find the studies. I didn’t want to do that – and so I showed them the same research.
As for my review, you are saying that because I’m not on the ra-ra protamdim bandwagon, that I am not entitled to my opinions. Is that what you are saying? Sure sounds like it to me.
Since you can’t discredit anything in my review, you choose to try to try to discredit me personally, saying I’m in it for the money and I’m censoring people. Baloney!
Pistol, What I am tired of is protandim distributors attacking me because they can’t do anything else to answer my review. they don’t want to talk about the science; they just want me to shut up. So here’s what we are going to do: If you can find anything wrong with my review I will welcome that and if you are correct, I will amend my review. If you only want to try to attack me, then I will not post your comment. I have better things to do than to banter with someone who obviously has an agenda.
Joe,
First, I want to tell you that I appreciate your site and what you are trying to do. It is a great service to the community. I wish I had found your site a long time ago as it might have saved me a lot of time.
I am an M.D. with a background in Biochemistry and some clinical research. My training emphasized the importance of evidence-based medicine. I was asked my opinion about Protandim by a friend who is a distributor several years ago and I was intrigued but not convinced. I have spent some time going through the studies you have listed, as well as some others. In addition, I have done a fairly extensive review of the Pubmed database in an attempt to weed through the propaganda and make an objective opinion. I’ve also consulted with a friend who is a PhD doing immunology research. His level of understanding of the subject far surpasses my own, but he is interested in the Nrf2 mechanism independently. My take from him is that the cellular feedback mechanisms are far more complicated than oxidative stress “bad”, glutathione “good”, etc, but he didn’t think there would be any harm in taking it.
Your points on the limitations of the studies are valid. I will say that it will be very difficult to get a good quality human study on Protandim for a number of reasons: 1. Government or private funding is very hard to come by, 2. FDA has a bias against preventative studies because you are putting otherwise healthy people at a potential risk for side effects. 3. Since it is an herbal product, my understanding is that there is no patent protection and therefore it is unlikely that a big drug company will want to take on the huge expense.
I would point out that Pubmed has thousands of good studies on the different components of Protandim (most of them “test tube” studies), as well as the relationship of the anti-oxidant enzymes and glutathione levels it effects to everything from arthritis, autoimmune disease, to cardiovascular disease to aging. The definitive studies aren’t there yet but their is definitely a lot of circumstantial evidence that there would be some benefit. The different herbs have been used for centuries and have a good safety profile.
Anyway, my personal conclusion after a lot of time spent learning about the mechanisms and reviewing the direct and indirect research available is that it is probably helpful and won’t hurt anything except the pocketbook. I decided to take it myself for the past year or so, and so far so good, I guess.
Please keep updating your research. I look forward to seeing what you come up with.
M, thanks for your words and I agree things are more complicated than just oxidative stress etc.I just wish I knew about Protandim when I was in grad school. I would have loved to study it further.
@M
You mention that it would be: “difficult to get a good quality human study on Protandim for a number of reasons: 1. Government or private funding is very hard to come by,”difficult to get a good quality human study on Protandim for a number of reasons: 1. Government or private funding is very hard to come by, 2. FDA has a bias against preventative studies because you are putting otherwise healthy people at a potential risk for side effects.”
How is it that LV managed to get that very strange (and somewhat invasive) study done on alcoholics? Surely a simple study on blood pressure or cholesterol could have been done instead.
Joe,
I appreciate the way you have presented the studies. I am a skeptic by nature, and when a family member approached me with their plan to sell it I wanted more information than the company’s promotional literature and my relatives insistence that it worked for them.
We were given protandim for our 13 year old dog who has suffered with arthritis and other issues and had been gradually withdrawing from us. I honestly did not expect any change in her; however my husband has given her the supplement daily for over two weeks now. While everything I describe is only anecdotal and I cannot tell you what physiological effects protandim has had, our dog who could not get up a step to our deck on her own in warm weather due to arthritis in her hips is now managing it during winter weather, she is wanting interaction and to play (which she had not done in two years), she has her sauntering gait again, and we are seeing fewer issues with her bladder control.
Can I absolutely say it is protandim? No; however her diet is unchanged as are household routines, protandim is the only change. We will be purchasing more for her as we believe we have seen something pretty extraordinary.
maria c, thanks for writing and I appreciate your words. Im really glad you have your dog back 🙂
Joe, why do you care about Protandim? If you are not willing to spend $40 to try it yourself and then see if it has a positive effect, or negative effect on you then I say you are not credible. If I was doing the amount of work that you do on a product and did not even try it myself I would not say anything positive or negative.
It appears you are just in it for the money! Step up to the plate and try it for yourself. If it does nothing then report that. If it does something report that. Why do people listen to “experts” like you who will not even try a product and then give their opinion? I personally know 2 Naturopaths that take it and prescribe it to their patients. No offense, but I trust them more than you. Do you think Dr. McCord is not legit? No offense, but based on his accomplishments I trust him more than you as well. It really amazes me that people listen to you!
You seem like a nice intelligent person. Why dont you try the products you bash. It is funny that you have no scientific peer reviewed studies that disprove Protandim, but you will pick apart the studies that prove its effectiveness.
It’s pretty bold of you to discredit peers like Harvard and other legitimate Universities that spent months or years researching this product. Do you think you can better inform the public without doing any scientific research? Give us all a break!!!
Pistol, I’m not discrediting anything or anybody. I’m just reporting on the research that is out there on this product.
You say I have no proof that protandim does not work -and you are right. So why doesn’t lifeVantage – or somebody else do BETTER research? I showed you all the published research so people could make a more informed decision. I’ve already said that if I were in grad school right now, I could do better Protandim research than what is currently out there -and I could get it published too. I’ve already outlined the kind of research on Protandim I’d like to see done.
Suppose I did try Protandim and I said it didn’t work. You wouldn’t believe me because you don’t know me. Just as I don’t accept testimonials from people I don’t know, you also would not believe “my testimonial.” That said, I was curious enough about Protandim that I was really willing to spend a lot of money to test Protandim – money that I would have paid out of pocket. All I asked was a distributor to give me a month of Protandim for free. I don’t think that is too much to ask. But nobody wanted to do that and so I withdrew my offer.
You said you know naturopaths who “prescribe” protandim. Protandim is a supplement, not a drug. As such, nobody “prescribes” a supplement. I don’t think “proscribe” is a word LifeVangate wants its distributors to use.
Joe, How come my replies are not getting put on this site? I apologize that I used the word prescribe, but I do not know of a better way of expressing the fact that they recommend it to their patients.
Joe are you saying that you could do better research than a lifetime (and highly decorated) scientist like Dr. Joe Mccord? That is discrediting to me! I do not claim to be a expert, but I would say with a high level of confidence that Dr. Mccord has far more credibility in regards to research than you or me. To say that you could do better research is a joke in my opinion. What research have you done of any real consequence before? Please enlighten me. Lets be honest. Do you really care about Protandim???
I believe that if nobody was searching for negative information on this product you would care less!!! I am sorry to have that tone, but if you really really cared you would do all the “real research” you think should be done before you criticized research done by an icon like Dr. Mccord.
Pistol, I have no idea what you are talking about. Today is the first time I saw you pop up with a comment!
When I say I could do better research, its not to discredit anybody but rather to say that I would do research differently. For example, If I were testing protamdim I would investigate these areas:
1. does it effect cholesterol, LDL, HDL, CRP, A1C
2. does it effect TBARS?
3. does it effect Telomerase levels?
Each study would only take about 1 month to do and I’d only need 50-100 people per study. If I wanted to make it easy on myself, I could do it with 20 people for a pilot study. Since protandim is touted as “anti-aging” point # 3 – about Telomerase – would be of particular value.
These are legitimate questions and are not meant to deprecate anybody but rather to just state that I could do these studies if I had a lab and I could get them published.
You seem to think I have an agenda and to that I say you are wrong. I investigated Protamdim based on the research and what was being said about it. I went where the research took me. Protamdim might turn out to be the best supplement out there and I’m completely open to that possibility. I just want to see better research.
Joe, thanks for your work here. I am reminded of the game we played as children when one drew a line in the sand/dirt and dared anyone to cross it. If you crossed the line, there were “consequences.” Having been invited by an acquaintance, I just returned from my first (and last) protandim meeting where we watched the video and then listened to the distributor’s pitch about the product and the “business opportunity.”
All through the presentation, I was reminded of similar promotions for “noni juice” which was a hot item on the MLM circuit a few years back, touting very similar sounding health benefits. As you probably know, the FDA issued several cease and desist orders to the Noni folks for making unfounded health claims. Yet there continued to be distributors who would make outrageous clams and say (similar to Simone above) not to knock Noni juice unless you’ve tried it. Throughout the video and presentation, I noticed that the PT folks have developed clever marketing language so as not to cross the health claim line and invoke federal/state “consequences.”
Should it turn out, after legitimate long term medical studies, that protandim is proven effective, I’ll consider it only after my personal physician recommends it to me.
As I learned from W.C. Fields – “A sucker is born every minute”
As I learned in business school – “let the buyer beware”
As I read in the Bible – “A fool and his money are soon parted”
Lee, thanks for writing and for letting me know they showed that Primetime Live video. I guess most of them use that video…
I played that game too as a kid 😉
This product is now making a “splash” in the deep South. I am very, very skeptical but will be attending a meeting next week with a friend. Anytime a product that is supposed to be SO wonderful is presented as part of a MLM plan, I’m instantly on high alert. As another commenter stated, I too have a sensitive “bs” meter!
Thank you for your in depth and thorough review of this product.
Klee, thanks for writing. When you go to the protandim meeting, when they bring up the research and direct you to “pub med” can you ask them why only 2 of the 14 studies have been conducted on humans? I’d be interested if they know of any human research coming out in the near future.
Joe, it is with great interest I read your review of Protandim. I was just approached via Facebook last week about it because of comments I made there about my hereditary high cholesterol. At the time I did not know what “amazing product” my FB friend wanted to tell me about, but since this is someone I actually know in the real world (as all my FB friends are required to be) I thought, what the heck, I’ll go listen to what she has to say.
I am on a mission to avoid taking statins, and you just never know what you might run in to. So I went to the meeting place and I very quickly realized it was a combination of information session for the new people, and trying to recruit new independent distributors. Very little emphasis on the information part, very heavy emphasis on the “become a distributor” part.
The information consisted of the 2005 John Quinones video. At that point I have red flags going off. I have a very sensitive bs detector, and it was starting to ping a little. Basically my concerns were:
Why are they showing me a video from 2005?
Why is the person who invented this supplement doing the blood testing?
Why are there not about 3 different follow up videos from subsequent years, showing continued improvement for John Q?
Why have I never heard of this stuff before if it has been a virtual miracle anti aging product for over 6 years?
I read a LOT of literature about nutrition in my own quest for good health. Then after the 6 year old video was over I realized there would be no more information about the product other than to say we are free to check out the pub med studies (which I intended to do).
And then it was straight on to the “become a distributor” portion of the program, followed by actual “training” time for the distributors who were present (which includes my friend). This is the point where I took my leave, telling my friend I intended to do my due diligence on the product and I will be in touch with her. I left with a combination of curiosity, skepticism, and disappointment.
Even if the product does what it claims to do, I’m not sure I make the correlation between lowering my oxidative stress and how that could possibly lower my existing high cholesterol. Then there is the fact that I would never be willing to rep a supplement to anyone else that I have not first tested on myself and proven to be effective, let alone one I just heard about while we are sitting here in this room.
So I have been searching around for more information independent of the LifeVantage entity and ran across your review, which to men said everything I was already asking myself! I have found a slight stumbling block in that if I want to get a TBAR blood test, I am required to get a physicians order before the lab will do the blood work. I don’t know if that is a state regulation only in some states, but where I live, an individual cannot walk into a lab and request their own blood work of any kind.
So now I am trying to decide if it is worth the expense to go to my doctor, pay for the office visit to request this test ($30), and then pay for the test itself, since my insurance won’t cover it. I’m still in decision making mode.
Anyway, I wanted to thank you for your product review. I found it very informative and insightful and it was a great addition to my information gathering on this product.
Tania, thanks for writing and if you do ever get that TBAR test, I hope you will let me know what happens 🙂
Tania:
Why the interest in getting a TBAR test if what you are really interested in is your cholesterol ? I think Protandim is nothing but smoke and mirrors, but if you’re that interested in it, why not take it for a few months and have your cholesterol tested? Your insurance would pay for a cholesterol test, wouldn’t it?
Even if your cholesterol levels improve, you won’t really know if it was due to the Protandim or some other factor (including the placebo effect), but it would make more sense than doing a TBAR test.
I’ve heard claims about Protandim lowering cholesterol too (it’s hard to find a disease it’s not supposed to help). You have to wonder though, why doesn’t LV do a double blind controlled study to back up these claims? Seems simple enough to do.
LisaRob, yes good point. I could forget about any of the other health improvement claims of Protandim that would need a TBAR test to verify and just focus on cholesterol lowering. I go to one of my local hospitals once a year that has a “Heart Health” program where they test your cholesterol and triglyceride levels for only $15. That is how I keep tabs on my levels.
I’m not sure that hereditary cholesterol is something that responds to the placebo effect, but I have always thought that if something works for you “just because you believe it will work” aka the placebo effect…..it is still working for you. Right? If I can believe my way to lower cholesterol, instead of taking a statin, I’m all for it! Thanks for the suggestion, I was looking at too big a picture instead of looking at it with a more focused agenda that is easily doable and affordable.
Tania, Do you think that because a video is old that invalidates it? There have been many studies since that video to review. The reason that video is used is because ABC Primetime it was a really good show. Many products on the market use old research. Why should they try to reinvent the wheel?
How many products do you know that ABC Primetime has tested? I think the fact that they took the time to test and validate it speaks for itself. Humans will always be humans. Do we need to keep doing new programs to tell the same thing over and over again? Whats the point? If it works, it works. The date means nothing.
Bob. you are right about studies being conducted since the ABC Primetime video – and I believe, I included all the published studies in my review. Being “old” does not invalidate the ABC Primetime video. What invalidates it as “proof” is that its a ‘study” of only 1 person -and for me the producers didn’t let an independent lab do the testing.
Joe, The fact is that Life Vantage could not make the claim that Protandim reduces oxidative stress by 40% in 30 days of use if it were not true. That is a LEGAL CLAIM. If it were not true they would be getting sewed left and right. ABC Primetime just show the same thing for 1 man. That was not a study, it was 1 man putting the CLAIM to the test. As far as an independant lab goes, I think ABC primetime trusted Dr MCCord and so can we. He has displayed nothing but integrity.
Bob, What published study of Protandim noted that it reduced oxidative stress by 40% in 3 days?
I don’t think you saw me anywhere disparage Dr McCord and its not disparaging to say that I would do different research if I was able to. No I’ve never won a noble prize or had any of my research published in a medical journal but I do know enough about the scientific method to conduct research and that is what I was stating earlier.
About Primetime segment yes it was indeed 1 man putting it to the test -I’m just saying that they did it the wrong way. As I said in my review I have no reason to believe anything funny went on when Primetime looked at Protandim, but their test would have carried more weight in my eyes if an independent lab did the TBAR testing. That is not an insult on anyone integrity its just a basic tenet of good scientific journalism.
Bob
The focus should be on the actual scientific studies, not on the integrity of McCord. If you really want to “go there” and base your faith in the product on the integrity of McCord, you need to address the fact that he lied about inventing Protandim, and he allowed LV to lie about it. This is all well documented.
LisaRob, do you have a reference for that? I wasn’t aware of that.
Yes, I do have references regarding the history of Lifevantage and McCord lying about who invented Protandim. It has been well documented. McCord went along with the lies for years.
Here is a LV document clearly stating that Joe McCord is the inventor of Protandim:
http://web.archive.org/web/20110721233521/http://www.lifevantage.com/products-breakthrough.aspx
That story began to unravel when people began to point out that McCord was not on the patent. LV came up with another story about the invention of Protandim to appease the critics. They (and McCord) made up a story about Myhill bringing a list of about 40 ingredients to McCord, which he quickly whittled down to the final formula. This was a way of claiming that McCord really was the inventor, but he just wasn’t on the patent since it was Myhill’s idea to begin with. Here is a video where McCord tells this story. Jump ahead to around the 38:54 mark if you don’t want to hear McCord’s entire career history:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C5vli73g_CA&feature=youtube_gdata_player
Unfortunately for LV, Myhill became somewhat of a disgruntled ex-employee and decided to expose this lie in a letter he posted on his Facebook page. Here is part of that rambling letter:
“It is with great sadness that I write this on the eve of my Birthday – not exactly the “gift” I was hoping for . . . or hoping to give. Since 2008, I have been pleading with the company to correct its marketing materials – to reflect that Joe is not the “Inventor” or “Creator” or “Scientist behind” Protandim; that Protandim wasn’t “developed after 40 years of research;” and that it didn’t consist of a “laundry list” of 40 ingredients that Joe whittled down to the current formula. This is all simply untrue. I’m sure the company will try to put some sort of further spin on this now and try to convince people otherwise, but the truth is the truth and will always come out in the end. Darkness can’t hide from the light.
The CORE botanical formula I forwarded to Joe included the current five botanicals, plus one additional one – all in the EXACT same proportions/weights as the current formula (all 1/3 of the original to get it into one pill), but with Milk Thistle subsequently bumped up at my suggestion. The other ingredients were part of an “all-in-one” (multi-formula) addition to that CORE botanical formula that I developed. Given such indisputable facts (and that the initial patent was filed one month before we even met Joe), how am I NOT the creator? How is Joe THE creator? The simple email record, and even a letter from Joe himself, clearly show that the current company communications are downright false and misleading . . . and, in the eyes of many, perpetuate an ongoing fraud – one that the SEC and FTC should be made aware of.
I initially stated that “nobody lied,” desiring to give this current management team the benefit of the doubt and chalking it to human error and the discontinuity of company management in general. But then, month after month went by with the same erroneous materials still being widely distributed by the company, despite their own admission to me that Joe isn’t the creator. These same materials are on the company website TODAY. I just don’t get how a company can keep doing that, with full knowledge that the materials are sending the wrong message to current and new distributors. Many times I wrote emails (which I’d be happy to share with you) and each time nothing was done to take down the offending materials.”
End of quote. Entire letter can be found here:
http://strangelyperfect.tv/12482/paul-myhill-publishes-letter-from-joe-mccord-on-facebook/
On that same web page you can find a letter written by Joe McCord to Bill Driscoll in which he declined having his name on the patent for Protandim, since he felt he made no significant contributions to the development of the product. This verifies Myhill’s assertion that he did not present McCord with a list of 40 possible ingredients.
So, for those distributors who want to rely on McCord’s integrity as the only proof they need to believe in the product, maybe they should take another look.
LisaRob, very interesting. Thanks for taking the time to outline this information.
Joe, Here is one study. http://www.docmarvin.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/2006Study.pdf
Bob, thanks for that. I will take a look at it.
Joe, You are welcome. I have asked you to show us what research you have done so that we can see your ability to do and critique research. I hope you do not take this wrong, but I like to take advise from people who have a high level of qualification. I can see all of Dr Mccord’s awards and research, I would just like to take a look at yours. Please show us.
Bob, Ive never tried to hide who I am. my background is in the about page of this site and you can find out all about me on my personal site Joe-Cannon.com that said, here is the skinny on me
MS exercise science
BS chemistry and biology
I’ve been investigating dietary supplements for about 15 years and I have written a book that details the claims /evidence for 119 supplements A to Z.
I’ve also written other books, been on TV, radio, etc.
I don’t need a PhD or an MD to analyze the research since you can’t critique anything about the research I’ve reviewed here, you are trying subtly discrete me by the inference that since I do not have a phd/MD or discovered anything nobody else has, before that I should not be taken seriously. The Protandim research -and lack of -speaks for itself. I think you know this Bob because you keep trying to take the emphasis off of my review and on me.
How long have you been researching supplements Bob – and how many books have you written? it doesn’t matter because that stuff doesn’t matter to me. All that matters is the research.
Joe, What do you think of this research?
Bob, if you read my review, you already know.
Joe, I believe that you should really leave the study’s up to the professionals and get a life. For you to spend so much time posting negative information on something you obviously don’t know anything about makes it pretty apparent that you have nothing better to do. And for all of you listening to this non-sense makes absolutely no sense to me.
Anonymous, how do you define a “professional?” I’ve devoted about 15 years of my life to investigating dietary supplements. I don’t feel showing people the research on protandim negative information.
Feel free to educate me on what I don’t know.
Wow. Someone just called me about this product. A distributor. As a medical professional I am sceptical of supplements with specific claims. Thank-you Joe for your time in looking into this product.
my pleasure I’m happy to help.
Joe
I was recently sent an e-mail from a friend with the ABC primetime piece and at first thought WOW! Then I saw when he had his blood drawn at their lab and thought this I wouldn’t trust and also an over site on ABC’s part for not getting test done at another lab for comparison.
Then came the rest of the video and at that point I new that this is a MLM. I decided to research the product and came across your site.I am so glad i did! read your review and those who posted and decided I won’t be trying it even though my friend will give me a free sample.
The issue about the uric acid has me concerned as I do have poly cystic Kidney disease and raising uric acid in my case would be very bad as they are to high already. So just to let those who are thinking it is a magic cure all, think again. Taking care of yourself by healthy diet, exercise and researching your medicine and holistic alternatives is always helpful.
JV, thanks and I’m glad you found me. I’m curious about the uric acid issue also. As I noted, only 1 protandim study noted a rise in uric acid levels. It was a “non-significant” rise but I wanted to mention it just in case it. I’m not aware of anyone having problems from uric acid elevations and Id like to see another study to duplicate it to make sure its a real effect. That said, Id agree that ABC Primetime dropped the ball in their segment.
Dear Joe,
Thanks for critically analyzing this product for all of us! I have a friend who has recently been taking ProT and wanted me and my husband to check it out because we are both very health conscious, and I am all about alternative methods of therapy. (real health concerns should always be taken up with your doctor! Also, if you are on medications, always discuss changed in supplement and diet with your doctor.)
Anyway, he texted me the link to the “abcliveit” site, but I was reticent to view it first, he had told me a bit about the marketing end of things, and I’ve sat through a few too many “pyramid” marketing deals to get excited about yet another one. Plus, they ALWAYS endorse their product in overly glowing terms. So I googled the product and came up with several pages, some ecstatic reviews, some denouncing it as a scam product, and then yours, on the first page of the search engine.
Now, after reading your review and about the lack of published research, I am inclined to not take this product for myself, especially since I have myself on a healthy regimen of diet, exercise, herbs and supplements, and I have never been healthier in my life. However, after reading some of your readers comments I do know someone that I might suggest this product to, to try and see if it works for them, of course I will suggest that they talk to their doctor about having their blood tested before hand.
Again, thank you for the unbiased, realistic, and to the point review of a somewhat questionable product.
Stephanie you’re very welcome and Im happy that I showed up on the first page of Google too 🙂
I took Protandim in 2011. I had to stop because it was constipating. When I told the person who sold it, I received a reply from him and the company that no one else had experienced that problem. I felt like they were not as concerned about the effects in my case as I would have expected. It sounded to me that they were concerned about my statement and wanted quash the idea that any undesirable effects could be experienced.
I’d like to see if any other consumers have had a similar experience.
If it had worked for me, I would have told others about it. Protandim is sold in a MLM, independent sales scenario. I had to join up in order to get a bottle of tablets each month. After two months, I opted out. I gave away one bottle and tossed the open one. I think each bottle was about $40-50, plus or minus.
Decades ago I tried Amway, too. This is how we learn.
Based on the tone of the proponent’s postings, I doubt they will believe what I have said here.
Thanks for providing this venue.
I bothered to go look at their patent filings. It is interesting to see how they DO refer to all sorts of diseases that Protandim would “prevent or treat”. The list looks like a who’s who of evil associates implicated with “oxidative stress”. Fact of the matter – if you are not performing your best and your body can use what is in the pills – you will see a reaction and say it is good. If you are healthy and your system is working well – you will see very little response and glowing endorsements will not be forthcoming. This is true of most supplements.
These type of variations in results also make it nearly impossible to conduct human studies, with supplements, that can scientifically be determined to provide specific levels of consistent results similar to what can be achieved in drug studies. The fact that they have test tube studies that show some reaction is a win for the company. If there was no reaction – they would be dead in the water. Now the question is whether their product can help any particular individual?
If it sounds good – give it a try for 30 days. You only have $40 at risk. Don’t become a distributor unless it gives you “knock your socks off” kind of results. You will flounder like 90% of all other multi-level marketing newbies and lose your money.
Golly, Joe, After reading all of this, I just had to add my two cents to this! I loved your review. It was totally honest and informational. I have been in “alternative health” for most of my life and have helped many people with my knowledge of supplements and alternative health practices.
Personally, I’m a certified massage therapist, who’s worked for Naturopathic physicians and chiropractic clinics. I have a few other certificates, but I don’t want to bore you! I attended a Lifevantage “introductory meeting” and looked at the information presented. I did speak with the presenter afterwards, as I wanted to clear up some information that was being shared incorrectly.
First of all, yes, you can purchase all of the ingredients independently and they have worked very well for people around the world. These herbs have been proven effective for over a thousand years. Unfortunately, here in the USA, we do not recognize other medical practices or even knowledge from other countries. For example, homeopathy is a world renowned proven medicine, prescribed by regular medical physicians, but isn’t even taught to our doctors in this country. That being said, we don’t teach our doctors about herbs either.
I have worked for a few years in health food stores and to purchase all of these herbs individually will cost you a great deal more than the $40. listed, so it is worth your while to do so. The ingredients are not organic, nor are many of the ingredients in the top supplements I’ve sold in healthfood stores. If you’re purchasing them at drugstores, Walmart or Costco, you are not even coming close to the kind of quality or health effects you would get if you purchased at a health food store.
This product was previously sold in Whole Foods, something I was surprised to learn. Whole Foods is very scrupulous about the products it sells, so this impressed me. Lifevantage decided to pull the product from the store because employees weren’t trained in what it was and how to sell it. They’ll make more money as an MLM company. They should have sold it through small companies who are passionate about increasing their knowledge and would have been better prepared to sell it. I work at Whole Foods, and I’m well aware of what goes on.
I am also very familiar with the DSHEA act and I’m extremely cautious in what I say to customers and understand what you can and cannot say about any supplement. I also know first hand that many supplements have changed people’s lives for the better. To this day, I get many former customers from previous stores I’ve worked at who pop by and thank me for helping them with their health needs. I’m only saying this to make the point known that I don’t believe everything a company says, I actually do investigate things as well.
What intrigued me from the beginning is the fact that Dr. McCord discusses the enzymatic activity with this product. I’ve personally been studying enzymes for a few years now and I’ve never seen such amazing results with people who utilize enzyme therapy. Knowing that, I was very keen on learning more. Dr. McCord’s background as being a co-founder in the discovery of SOD impressed me. I’ve seen some great results with people who have used SOD, which, by the way, the results are fast in appearing. The enzymes I’ve worked with work and work FAST.
All in all, I’m just saying Protandim does appear to be helping and although the distributors do not present the product properly, it’s understandable. They are excited and do not have a background in any kind of health field, or supplements as I do. In their enthusiasm, they are not understanding the research and are giving some misinformation, such as “taking the herbs separately will not produce the same results”…there’s no proof that taking them separately won’t do the same.
I personally am excited on the fact that you can take 1 pill a day or 5 separate pills…it’s your choice. I’d prefer to save the money and buy the 1 pill, as I hate sucking back pills!!!
As of this week, (Feb. 13, 2013) I decided to sign up as a distributor for Lifevantage. I will only give correct information and let people decide for themselves. I personally hate MLM and only decided to do this, because I understand enzymes and I really believe this product may help people improve their health. If it can make a difference for the better, then I will have been successful!
Thanks for letting me share!
Debbie, thanks I appreciate you sharing your thoughts. Continued success with your endeavors and with Protandim.
Debbie,
Dr. McCord said in one of the studies that taking them separately is 18X less effective than taking them in the Protandim pill because of the synergy so you are misrepresenting what has been said by LifeVantage. I can only speak from personal experience and this is only anecdotal evidence…Protandim has and continues to relieve me of significant pain I have experienced for 8 years and provides better and deep sleep… etc
Debbie thanks for your background….
Simone Ive heard that also but Id be interested in seeing the tests that show 18% less effective. Also, less effective at what?
Simone:
If the exact ratio of the ingredients in Protandim is so important, I would like to hear your thoughts on the following questions:
Why does LV not advise people to avoid taking their product with foods which contain some of the ingredients in Protandim (green tea or turmeric, for example)?
If the exact combination of ingredients is so important, how are they altering the product for Japan? Also, how is it that they are marketing and selling the product in Japan while the study of the new formula is still underway?
http://globenewswire.com/news-release/2013/01/14/516236/10017975/en/LifeVantage-Launches-Protandim-the-Nrf2-Synergizer-in-Japan.html
“Internally directed research and development programs have enabled LifeVantage to produce a formulation of Protandim for the Japanese market that meets recently enacted local regulatory requirements. “As part of our ongoing Global R&D program at LifeVantage we conducted a proprietary cell bioassay test that allowed us to identify an ideal formula for Japan that causes significant Nrf2 activation,” said LifeVantage Chief Science Officer Dr. Darlene Walley. The formulation being distributed in Japan is the subject of a placebo controlled, double blind clinical study being conducted at Colorado State University. Preliminary data from that study show the product to be a potent oxidative stress reducer.”
As an aside, I happened to find both your site and this FDA recall while searching for information about Protandim.
http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/SafetyInformation/SafetyAlertsforHumanMedicalProducts/ucm331323.htm
Monroe, yes I’m aware of the protandim recall. I didn’t mention it because it looked like they seemed to be on top of things recalling the effected batches and informing people. Stuff happens.
One thing I have not been able to find an answer for is this: the production inside the cell of glutathione and SOD relies heavily on the supply and availability of methyl groups, of which many if not most of my patients in my clinical experience, are severely depleted and methylation activity severely inhibited.
How does this depletion affect the efficacy of Protandim? Do you know if LifeVantage addresses this anywhere? I use SOD and glutathione therapeutically with my patients and see great results, but I also supplement them, sometimes heavily, with methyl donors.
In addition, Protandim does not address in any way the detoxifying effects of glutathione and SOD. A body with compromised eliminatory organs and systems can actually become sicker if a detox process is initiated but the toxins can not be eliminated from the body and are reabsorbed.
I understand the scientific and clinical use of supplements (along with proper nutrition and healthy lifestyle) but I’ve become more discerning over the years, especially as I’ve practiced and encountered the complexities of the human body, and understand THERE IS NO MAGIC BULLET. It’s far too easy to put up a nice website and post some studies to support a product. I appreciate websites such as yours that help consumers ask the right kinds of questions.
Leslie, its an interesting question you ask and I don’t know the answer. That might be something to direct to LifeVantage themselves. One thing that I am curious about is how do you know your patients are depleted in metyl groups? Is there a test for methylation ability that you give your patients? As for glutathione supplements, as I understand it, I don’t believe we absorb it very well (there may be brands that account for this;Im not sure).
Thank you all for the good discussion! Thank you Joe for the objectiveness!
@Simone – Forgive me, but what does “President of my church” mean? I have never heard of that? What religion is it? It may be off the subject a little, but I am way to curious.
As far as Protandim, I think some non-biased human studies are essential. Otherwise, I think it is safe to say that it is not credible or worth much of a dialog. That may seem harsh, but there is NO reason other than the negative for not having hundreds of these tests published somewhere credible. It would be very easy for a multi-million dollar company to see through.
Chris