Update 5/16/20. What is Vemma? Is Vemma really the “Worlds Most Powerful liquid Antioxidant” or is Vemma a scam? These are some of the questions I've been asked lately, so I decided to do a Vemma review. When I went to the Vemma nutrition website, I discovered that Vemma is more than a supplement company. The company also has a multi-level marketing aspect to it, where people can have their own Vemma vitamin drink business and sell products to others. Other supplements I've reviewed previously that have a multilevel marketing business part include Shakeology, TriVita, and Juice Plus. Let’s leave the MLM part alone and just focus on Vemma itself. The CEO of Vemma says that it is “physician formulated” and “blends Eastern and Western Philosophies” and that Vemma contains “plant-based mysterious elements like OPCs and EGCGs. Currently, Vemma offers 6 different supplements but their flagship product is just called “Vemma”. What I want to do here is review science behind Vemma and see what we can discover.
Also, see the review of Vemma Bode Meal Replacement Shake.
Who Makes Vemma?
The supplement is a product of Vemma Nutrition Company. The address for the company is 8322 East Hartford Drive Scottsdale, AZ 85255. A check of Google Images shows that this address leads to a rather large building that says “Vemma” on the outside.
On the science page of Vemma.com, it's mentioned that the company“owns, operates, and oversees” the facility that makes the supplement. That's good. The facility is located in Tempe Az. So this is a USA-made supplement. That's good too.
Most supplement companies appear, to me, to exist only on paper, outsourcing the production and distribution of their products to 3rd party entities. So, to me, it's rare to see a company that makes its own stuff.
There is also another Vemma location that appears to be dedicated to its energy drink, called Verve. The address for that building is 3732 Virginia Beach Blvd Virginia Beach, VA 23452.
According to the Better Business Bureau, the company has been in business since 2007. See the BBB file for updates and more information.
Vemma Research
In a video on the product's website -vemma.com – the CEO of Vemma says he has put “hundreds of thousands of dollars into clinical science to prove what Vemma can do for you and your family.” Two studies posted on their science page. These studies are:
Journal of Medicinal Food. Study name: Effect of a Mangosteen Dietary Supplement on Human Immune Function: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. This study involved 59 people
and
Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry. Study name: Bioavailability and Antioxidant Effects of a Xanthone-Rich Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) Product in Humans. This study involved 20 people.
Looking over the studies I noticed that:
1. Both of these studies are published in health journals in 2009 and are peer-reviewed. That’s good.
2. Both studies involved humans, which is also good.
3. One of the studies notes that Vemma:
- increased T helper cells (an immune system cell) and other aspects of immunity
- reduced CRP levels (a marker for cellular inflammation)
- improved overall feelings of health
Study Summary
Of these two studies, one basically says that the ingredients in Vemma can be absorbed by the body and the other finds the supplement can help the immune system, lower inflammation and help us feel better.
So, while that's less proof than I'd like, it's good when a company helps support research on its own products because this is rare. I look forward to other Vemma studies.
Vemma Ingredients
So, the supplement has a lot of vitamins and minerals. While that's good, you'd also find those in many other health drinks so I won’t review them all here because I have written about many of them in other posts (Tip: use the search box on this site to find out more about the vitamins).
Vemma has 1000 IUs of vitamin D. I usually recommend people to get their vitamin D levels checked because low levels appear to increase the risk of various health problems. The RDA for vitamin D was recently increased to 600IUs.
I noticed that Vemma only contained one type of vitamin E – alpha-tocopherol. There are 8 different types of vitamin E. Alpha-tocopherol is the most common in the body. The other types of vitamin E are also anti-oxidants. To be fair, most supplements also only contain alpha-tocopherol.
The main ingredients in Vemma vitamin drinks are said to be:
- Mangosteen
- Aloe Vera
- Green tea
All 3 of these ingredients ads up to 25.2 grams (that’s a little less than 1 ounce)
Let’s look at the research on each separately
Mangosteen
I believe mangosteen (scientific name Garcinia mangostana) is the main active ingredient in Vemma because mangosteen is mentioned in the title of both of the Vemma studies conducted so far. Mangosteen is sometimes marketed in other products as Xango Juice.
Mangosteen does have some antioxidant effects. We, humans, make antioxidants naturally and they are in fruits and vegetables as well as “superfoods” like mangosteen. That said, I should mention that there is no good proof that mangosteen is a better antioxidant than what you would find in other fruits. Mangosteen is a different kind of fruit and as such can be a part of a healthy diet, but whether its better than other fruits, I don't think so.
In this review of mangosteen juice ads, the researcher compares the supplement ads to the clinical research. It's an interesting read for those who are interested.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera appears to have antioxidant and antibacterial properties. There is also some evidence that parts of aloe vera may have an effect on lowering insulin levels and weight loss. Other studies appear to show that aloe vera may help lower cholesterol and LDL levels as well as hemoglobin A1C levels (a marker for diabetes progression).
These studies are not on Vemma but on other aloe vera preparations, some of which may not be available to the public.
Studies showing positive effects do not use much, only about a half an ounce per day. This is important to keep in mind, given that aloe vera can be a laxative. I have no proof that one brand is better than another.
Here is a brand of aloe juice on Amazon that has several positive reviews.
Green Tea
Green tea gets a lot of attention from researchers. There is research showing that green tea may help various forms of cancer, Alzheimer's disease, and even weight loss and heart disease. Does that mean Vemma might do some of these things too? This is currently unknown.
While it's the EGCG in green tea that often gets a lot of attention, it's important to remember that there is a lot of other things in green tea that may have beneficial effects. As such, it's good to drink tea as opposed to individual green tea ingredients that appear “sexy” to researchers.
The green tea used in Vemma is decaffeinated so it should not keep anyone awake at night.
Vemma Side Effects
The supplement has been around a long time and is likely ok in most healthy people. If your not healthy here are some things to consider.
- Start with less than recommended for the first week
- Stop taking at least 2 weeks before having surgery
- talk to your doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding
As far as I can see, very little human research has been conducted on mangosteen. Most mangosteen research is basically performed on isolated cells in a test tube or lab animals. When eaten as food, it is likely safe for most people. As for mangosteen supplements, side effects will probably vary by the health of the person, medications they take, and how much mangosteen the supplement contains.
Mangosteen may have a blood thinner effect due to its effect on the enzyme cyclooxygenase which does many things – including playing a role in blood clotting. This may be an issue for people who take blood thinner medications.
There is a report of a man who became sick using a mangosteen supplement every day for a year. The mangosteen supplement appeared to alter the acidity of the body, causing the man to vomit, have abdominal pain, and have rapid breathing. These are symptoms of a condition called lactic acidosis.
This doesn't mean Vemma will do the same thing. It probably won’t but it’s worth pointing out just in case anyone else experiences these symptoms with other mangosteen products.
- Some cancer therapies – like radiation therapy – kill cancer cells because they create free radicals. This is a good use of free radicals. Since antioxidants neutralize free radicals, would antioxidant supplements be bad for someone getting treated for cancer? This is a very BIG– and important – question that people must discuss with their doctor. This is true for all supplements.
- The question about mangosteen and cancer treatment has also been addressed by others, so do take this caution seriously if you have cancer. Given the complexity of cancer and cancer therapies, the decision to use antioxidant supplements is best decided by an oncologist who knows about these sorts of things.
- Aloe vera may be a blood thinner. Speak to your doctor if you take blood thinner meds. Aloe vera might also lower blood sugar so be careful if you are a diabetic. There is not much proof on either of these side effects but be aware of them just in case.
As is listed on the Vemma FAQ sheet, the supplement contains a little lithium. This may be due to its natural occurrence in the food. Lithium is sometimes used by doctors to treat manic depression. I'm sure Vemma only has a little lithium but I wonder if this might be a problem in people who were taking lithium or other anti-depressants? What about supplements that might have similar effects ? When in doubt, ask your doctor about this for more information.
There are isolated case reports of lithium supplement toxicity. Some research finds lithium may cause the heart to beat irregularly. Would Vemma do this? I don't know.
Vemma also has a little Vanadium. Vanadium (as vanadyl sulfate) used to be popular among weight lifters until they figured out it didn’t work for them. Vanadium may lower blood sugar levels which means it might interact with diabetes medications.
How Much Does Vemma Cost?
A bottle sells for about $30. By the time you read this, the price may be different so check for yourself.
Here's Vemma on Amazon too.
Vemma And The FTC
In August 2015 the Federal Trade Commission took action against Vemma alleging that the company was basically a Pyramid Scheme. The FTC alleged that Vemma specifically marketed itself to college students and other young adults with the prospect of getting rich selling Vemma supplements. In 2019 the company agreed to refund 2 million to affiliates who lost money on the supplement
Does Vemma Work?
While I like that there are a couple of studies on Vemma, right now, the research isn't where I'd like it to be. There is some interesting research on mangosteen, but most of what I see involves test tubes or lab animal research. As such, I'm not sure if Vemma is better than other mangosteen products. I hear that new Vemma research is in the works and I will add those studies to this review as I become aware of them. For now, I'm on the fence as to whether Vemma promotes health any better than just eating more “regular” fruits and vegetables. See the review of the Vemma Bode Meal Replacement Shake.
What do you think?
BIGlittlevoice says
After 10 days of taking Vemma, my chronic migraines and joint pain went away. After one month, i could feel heat in my hands when touching hot water and hot food from the microwave. Previously I could not bend my toes, and now I can. So far (it’s been 6 months now), my stomach issues are gone. Vemma is working great for me.
Joe says
Thanks BigLittleVoice, happy to hear you have had such a great response from Vemma. Continued success with all that you do 😉
Sorenda says
I first used Vemma back in 2005 on my Aunt’s suggestion, at the time it was known as New Vision. I had been diagnosed with tendonitis throughout my joints the year before, when I was 19. It was now to the point where my doctor has me taking four 800mg of ibuprofen daily, when the pain got really bad, I took six. All my texts had come back negative, nothing seemed to fit and I was fed up with taking painkillers. I started to blow-up, going from 118 lbs to 138 -140 lbs(I am only 5ft 3) my diet had not changed neither had my exercise.
I took New Vision for three months. The first day I took it I feel as if some one had suddenly turned on the lights. My energy levels increased while my joint stiffness and pain decreased. I was eventually able to give up the painkillers. I also lost weight, going down to 120lbs.
I eventually stopped taking New Vision due to the cost but maintained a strict diet. Although I had always ate well, I began to experiment with food and keep journal to see if my condition had any triggers. I found a correlation between the flares of joint pain and processed foods. So I eliminated lunch meat, canned meats, most popular seasonings and basically anything with high levels of preservatives. This helped and I was able to maintain a relatively pain free existence.
That was until recently. My energy levels have started to drop, while my feelings of depression have increased. I have been back on Vemma now for three days, my energy levels have increased and so has my mood. This may just be due to the lithium but I think there may be more to it. Maybe, I am simply able to absorb whatever nutrients are available in Vemma because it is liquid and it’s particular combination. I cannot say why, all I can do is tell you my experience, as I have.
I will admit I have had some loose stool on my second on third day of Vemma. I am not complaining though as prior to this my trips to the loo were limited. I feel lighter and my appetite has improved, so I consider that a trade off.
Joe says
Sorenda, thanks for writing. As long as you are feeling better with Vemma, that is what is most important to me. I’m glad its helping you 🙂
Johan says
The structure of fruits and vegetables are very complex things. Its contents are absorbed slowly as the body digests it. I dont think solving a lot of “supplementary” elements in a compound of water and fructose, could actually be equivalent to …well, eating a healthy diet! The water/fructose blend wont behave the way real food does!
Team CTW says
Johan, actually the entire vemma formula is a natural blend and has plant-sourced minerals that are rare to many fruits and vegetables today because of the diminishing quality of our soil. If you check out the scientific research behind the bio-availability (how easily absorbed the formula is being ionic minerals) BK Boreyko took the extra effort to have it proven to be easily absorbed! Hope that helps 🙂
tradconmom says
I can’t find anything on the “Natural Flavors” listed in the ingredients. Someone I know wanted to know what exactly they use. She was skeptical of that labeling.
Joe says
tradconmom, I’m not sure what the natural flavors in Vemma area. Id call the Vemma company and ask them. If you find out, do let me know.
Lori T says
Due to the cost, I too have considered discontinuing my use. I have several things physically going on. However, one of my physician suggested it to aid in treatment of my migraines. I was averaging 4 migraines a week. After one week on the Vemma, my migraines disappeared. I have had only two in the last 75 days.
Joe says
Lori, thats interesting about vemma and migraines.
Ann says
Concern about cadmium trace mineral? Constipation from Vemma?
Joe says
Ann, I’m not sure. Did you get constipation from Vemma? As a rule, I feel its always best to start the first week of a new supplement with less than is recommended to see if anything out of the ordinary happens.
tradconmom says
That’s a good idea. Thanks for the reminder.
With the Aloe and many other water soluble ingredients, I’d be very surprised if a little cadmium caused constipation. (just my two cents)
Joanna Zahradnik says
What about the Xylitol in some of the products. I believe its in some of the Verve or ParTea drinks. I have not heard good things about that ” natural” sweetner. What are your thoughts ?
Joanna
Joe says
Joanna, right now I dont have an opinion on Zylitol except that its a sweetener as you said. I found this on WebMd about it
http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-996-XYLITOL.aspx?activeIngredientId=996&activeIngredientName=XYLITOL
Nancy says
Joanna, I worked 13 years as a health food store manager. I had always heard (and experienced myself) the gas, bloating and loose stools that could occur after ingesting xylitol. Otherwise, I have never heard of any other negative reports on xylitol.
When I heard the Verve BOLD was going to have it as part of it’s natural sweetener blend, I was not happy. BUT!!
I have drank dozens of BOLD over the past 11 months and NEVER experienced any of those side effects! They must have some how removed that component of xylitol.
Joe Cash says
Well Joe, I must say you are a pretty resilient person. I think it just comes with being a Joe because thats my name to..:) As a 50 year old watching what the kids have done to the business side of this, I have seen the good, the bad and the ugly. Here in Georgia they have great leadership so most of the immature responses are coming from disrespectful mindsets. . My true apologies to all who have been effected through that non-sense.
I can personally testify that over the last 8 weeks of taking Vemma in the mornings and a Verve for afternoon energy boost I have both had amazing relief of previous knee, elbow, and shoulder pains that were getting so bad prior to taking Vemma I was truly effected in just day to day work and dreaded what was next when the ibuprofen was not resolving my pain and I was taking quit a bit.
The best word I can use for how I feel is plainly, “a state of well being”. I have recommended it to others experiencing similar problems and am finding they are having good results also. I respect Heidi’s decision to stop taking Vemma because that’s what happened to us with another MLM product that simply did not do anything for us and you can not take something with conviction unless it is doing something for you. God bless all!!!
Joe says
Thanks Joe, appreciate that. glad Vemma has been helping you.
Chad says
This is a really good article (article vs. propaganda). I like how the author does not claim to be an expert or a doctor, just a well researched writer putting forth the information he has found in an objective manner.
Joe says
Chad, thanks. I really appreciate you saying that. That’s exactly what I was striving to do.
Heidi says
All of my husband’s family are selling Vemma. For the last 6 months every time we are around his family we are strongly encouraged to also start selling. Vemma is doing great things for them (some have lost weight, others are finding it gives them more energy etc…) the only reason why we tried it was so that we would not get asked to buy it at the next family dinner. With Thankgiving coming up, I was dreading another Vemma talk with all of them. So, the month of October was the month we tried it.
We both took the 2 oz. serving daily. Unfortunately, neither of us experienced weight loss or energy increase. I would like to point out that we are both in our mid 30s, we watch what we eat and are generally healthy. We are not overweight and don’t struggle with energy level. Again, the only reason why we tried it was to get our family off our backs. If ANY health benefits would have come from it, it would have been a bonus.
It is expensive, that would be my only negative. Other than that it didn’t do anything for us either way.
Oh, and yes, I would have to agree hearing about how much Vemma income they are making is quite uninteresting and who knows if the figures they are telling us are true?!! But, if we are just talking about positive and negative sides of the PRODUCT I would say I could take it or leave it.
Due to the price tag, we’re done.
When I emailed my family to tell them we were not continuing to buy Vemma, nor did we experience any positive results they said the following:
1. We needed to try it for several months before we would see an energy increase (is that true??)
2. If we sold it, it would be cheap, or even free if you find enough people to sell under you
3. If we didn’t have any major health issues so our results wouldn’t be very dramatic (weird, how we weren’t told that BEFORE buying! haaa!)
Anyway, I would have returned it for my money back, but I would never hear the end of it from my brother-in-law who we bought it through, so I guess that is worth a hundred and sixty bucks not to get an ear full about returning it. 🙂
I am praying that at Thanksgiving dinner the sales pitches don’t continue for us to be encouraged to keep taking it. Fingers crossed.
Joe says
Heidi, for what its worth, I’m not aware of any evidence that you’d have to take Vemma for several months before you noticed an increase in energy levels. Sorry you’ve been put in that situation with your family. If it were me, I would have bought it from Amazon at first as a test, so as not to worry about offending anybody. Regardless, I hope all goes well for you at Thanksgiving. Let me know what happens.
nani says
Wow! Really? Amazon! I would NEVER buy something I will ingest or be absorbed by my body from an unknown distributor on Amazon. Horrible advice. Did it really hurt them that bad to support a family member in their business! What’s more, many MLMs have provisions for NOT marketing through venues such as Amazon. So you are suggessting buy from someone who goodness knows where they got the product or are marketing illegally?! Not cool
Joe says
Nani, I disagree because the people who sell on Amazon are likely distributors themselves. Many companies even have Amazon stores too. Some people may be interested in Vemma but not want to go through a distributor so I wanted to give them this option. Amazon also lets people see what others are saying about a product too and this helps them make a better decision.
Companies may have rules about distributors selling on Amazon etc but they still do it. Also, distributors dont know anymore about whats in a product or how it was made than those who sell on Amazon – unless of course they sit in the factory and watch every product being made. Of course that’s not going to happen.
I understand why distributors might not like this but I feel people should have this choice.
Athena Nagaoka says
I LOVE Vemma. My health has done a 180 as it has done for all my customers. They are not distributors and are NOT at all interested in making money with us.. but their health results are noteworthy. You should have felt somewhat healthier after just three days. Or you should have taken the Verve energy drink for energy.. The supplement is NOT an energy drink. It is good for your health and with endorsements by Chris Powell and Dr. Oz… doesn’t get better than that. Too bad your attitude sucks!
Joe says
Athena,
1. Dr Oz has repeatedly said that he does not endorse supplements.
2. Chris Powell is a personal trainer who is paid for his endorsement. Hes not an RD. Hes not a doctor. Hes a very good personal trainer. Before he became famous he helped a man lose over 100 pounds. I’m curious, when did Chris Powell start his endorsements of Vemma? Does Vemma ever get mentioned during his TV show, Extreme Weight loss?
I’m glad you identified yourself as an Vemma distributor and or what you have said about your own health. That said, I feel you need to be accepting of people who may not agree with your beliefs.
Jennifer says
To clarify – Dr Oz. does not endorse Vemma – Verve has appeared on his show but you are correct – he does not endorse us (or any supplement). Chris Powell was instrumental in the creation of the BOD-e line of products – Vemma/Bod-e is not mentioned on his programs because they are a MLM company and do not wish to market in the traditional methods.
I’ve been a network marketer with Vemma for over a year and have loved the personal and financial growth I’ve experienced. With that being said – MLMs are not for everyone – but these products are definitely worth the research if you’re looking to supplement your diet or lose some weight. vemma.com/science is a wonderful resource for research.
Joe says
Jennifer, thanks for your words.
fwkaufman007 says
I have been an avid user of Vemma and Verve for roughly six years; and tho I am now in my early 50’s and have stayed “gym active” since my early twenties. The main areas of my health that have entirely ceased since being a Vemma user are; I no longer suffer from these odd twitching spells that occurred in my hands & thigh muscles; in addition to a very painful period of sciatica which has never returned.
An added plus is I seldom experience headaches, cold virus’s or inflammation of any kind since staying on the Vemma/Verve products.
For an older guy I am quite hard on my body – and I so appreciate the overall feeling of well being at this stage on the game. I think the Vemma difference is something that tends to be very unique & personal to the health of the indivual user.
I would encourage anyone with a health challenge to consume this product over a minmum 90 day period to insure a proper judgment call on your health & well being.
K.Towery says
I wanna to know does vemma bode shake causes diarrhea?
Joe says
K Towery, Ive never heard of vemma causing diarrhea. Either way, I’d say stop taking it until the diarrhea gets better. If this were me, I’d start with less than is recommended for the first week, just to cut back on the possibly there is a connection. Anybody else know about this?
Team CTW LLC says
Joe and K.Towery, I’ve heard that the aloe in it can have a laxative effect. Also the bod-e shakes do contain milk, although lactase is also an ingredient and should help those who are lactose intolerant. I agree with easing into it. Your body can react to something you’re not used to. Our bod-e cleanse product really clears you out if that’s something you’re looking for. Hope this helps!
Also, Joe, were you ever interested in a sample? I’d be more than happy to send you any of our products.
Joe says
Team CTW, thanks for the offer. I’ll keep that in mind if I address other Vemma products.
Christal says
When you start taking Vemma, often you will experience a detoxifying period. The aloe does naturally rid your system of impurities. It’s fantastic! I find now, after months on the products, that my cravings for sugar are gone and if I do eat any garbage foods, my body quickly rids itself of the impurities.
Vogel says
Which impurities would those be and how do you know that your body is getting rid of them?
Team CTW LLC says
Joe, I find myself referring to this article often as a brand partner so I just wanted to join those and say thank you! Also wanted to just mention that the price you have listed is actually for 2 bottles of Vemma which is enough for 1 adult for the month on a full dose.
So far I have 1 success story on my team; friend’s father lost 10 lbs and it helped stabilize his blood pressure for the first time ever and the doctor told him it was his best check-up and to keep doing whatever he started! After hearing this my belief level just sky-rocketed and since then I have sent multiple bottles to those around me who have medical issues. I tell all of them to check with their doctors first as we shouldn’t be claiming to be medical experts, we just recommend a product. What works for one person may not work for another.
Also just wanted to comment on some of the “cult-like” and negative behavior. If you’re not a part of the Vemma family and you’ve been subjected to the company in a negative way, I do apologize. Unfortunately a majority of our newer brand partners are younger and have no idea what they are doing or are doing just what they are being taught or what worked for them. I just want to say that we are not all like that. On my team we concentrate on the people helping people aspect of the business and I do the best I can to spread that mentality over the hype and flaunt money and cars culture. If anyone is considering becoming a brand partner but isn’t a fan of that culture, understand that you can always find one that matches your style and beliefs or even make your own as I did. Let’s change the world together!
Joe says
Team CTW, thanks I appreciate the words and glad it helped your friends dad.
Ana says
I am just wondering why people keep trying to find negative things in Vemma. This is a natural product!
Do people go to the doctor and ask if they can drink a coca cola???? or any of those cola drinks??? That kills you! and everybody drinks it, even little kids drink it, my doctor drinks it! Nobody is concerned about that!
Joe says
Ana, my goal was not to find anything negative but rather to give you some information that you might not find elsewhere so you could make a more informed decision. If I did that, then Im glad.
Leandra says
is anybody else concerned about the “natural fructose”? that’s probably the biggest thing preventing me from trying the product.
Nancy says
Try the BOLD, sweetened with organic cane sugar, xylitol, and stevia. Only 5 grams of sugar. That is much less than an apple.
On the other hand, fructose comes from fruits.
(I worked 13 years as a manager of a health food store).
Ron says
Mid April of this year I suffered a couple of grand mall seizures. I am 70 and in very good physical condition and taking stabilizing medication for the seizure. Is this Vemma product going to interfere with my 500 mg, 2 times daily of divalproic acid? I haven’t received my order as yet and will wait for your reply prior to starting my doses.
Joe says
Ron, Im really not sure about this. Why dont you show the ingredients to your pharmacist and see what they think about this.
Ron says
Thanks very much for your advice. I’ll do just that!
Linda says
I have been taking Vemma vitamins/minerals for over 6 years. I started taking the product when I was told I had FMS (Fibromyalgia syndrome). FMS is a condition where all of your joints and muscles would ache for no known reasons. After taking it for about 3 weeks, I felt like a brand new person. I have tried many times to quit taking the product just so I can save money. But after 2 days without it, my FMS symptoms would come back.
I am still on 2 ounces a day. I have tried reducing that amount to 1 and a half ounces, but I don’t feel my best. Maybe it’s the mangosteen that helps with my inflammation or the vitamins that I’m lacking that’s helping with the muscle and joint pain…I really don’t know. All I know is that it works for me!
Joe says
Linda, thats great news! Glad Vemma is helping your fibromyalgia. Ive never seen any research on Vemma and fibromyalgia. lets hope somebody in the lab takes a look at this 🙂
Jenine says
Joe, I have purchased the chocolate and vanilla shakes. Actually i just received my second bag of each. The taste is really good. I am picky. If it was gross, i wouldn’t have re-ordered. I didn’t get auto delivery. I enjoy my shake each morning, which i prepare in a blender. I have lost no weight as of yet. I do not sell this product. They are not paying me to say it’s good.
Seriously it’s yummy. I actually look forward to drinking it!! I am not sure it is making me healthier. It is expensive. But, i don’t drink or smoke…so i don’t feel guilty paying for this product. It is like a yummy milkshake that isn’t bad for you…looking forward to my next shake. 🙂
Joe says
Jenine, glad vemma tastes good and you make a good point about spending money on alcohol or cigarettes vs. Vemma (or other products). As someone who doesn’t drink or smoke either, I’d rather you spent money on this than that other stuff 🙂
Nancy says
Anonymous~
Nice name, no trail back to you?!
I don’t know “what” product you were tasting?? I worked in a health food store for 13 years, vitamins/ mineral liquids are NOT going to taste like orange juice. Vemma has worked very hard to make a tasty liquid supplement. In all my years there I never saw anything close the complete formula of Vemma. I am VERY well read on the nutrients in the Vemma formula. It was (for 13 years) and still is my life.
Do you put equal time into bashing Mary Kay, Avon, Tupperware, Herbalife etc. for their business structures?? They all earn cars and have to maintain the enrollment to keep them.
Only 12% of Vemma users have any desire to build a business with Vemma. Most people take the product because it works.
In my opinion, ( which I am entitled to) is you are someone from another “company” with an ax to grind!
Joe says
Nancy, While I like names as well, to be fair, pro-Vemma people have also commented as anonymous. In fact if you read the comments, one anonymous pro-vemma person basically threatened to sue me over what I wrote. While I cant corroborate the things that anonymous stated, I can agree that there are very passionate people in the Vemma camp who take seriously the words of those who have different options.
Chelene Ross says
@ Joe – I appreciate where you are coming from. In a blog such as this you need to remain neural.
@ Nancy – I so agree with your comments to anonymous.
Joe says
Thanks Chelene 🙂
Nancy says
Chelene~ Thank you for your comments. 🙂
Nancy says
Joe, I believe what you have put into print is valid concerning Vemma. I have read some of your reports on other products as well. I find you to be unbiased and report facts. I have no issues with what you have stated here. Some of the details can be cleared up when one knows the background of the source. Such as a BBB rating. I know this from working as a health food store manager for 13 years. The BBB is typically when someone has called in a complaint, valid or not. The BBB is certainly not the “end all” when it comes to making decisions about a company or a product!
Joe, I appreciate what you are doing here! I hope you continue to be clear, straight and unbiased in all of your investigations and reporting!
Joe says
Nancy, thanks for that and I agree the BBB is not the end all and I sometimes wonder about ratings I see for companies as well. I look at the BBB ratings as just one piece of a larger picture.
anonymous says
Yes I am going to keep the anonymous, this is my point anyone who speaks ill of vemma and their perception of the product and or the selling scheme is usually responded to by callous or mean-spirted attacks. Is there anything one can say negatively about vemma that a vemma rep might think “yes, l can see that persons reasoning.” I did not criticize whether the product worked, but rather the sales gimmick used seems shady.
My comments are my observations and opinion and taste buds. Yet to have them, u think I work for some other mlm organization which is not true. I have been introduced to other mlm business like mary k and I haven’t seen them to continually shove their products down ones throats and brag they are gold level which is about minimum wadge.
Where I grew up people didn’t normally brag about how much money one makes unless they are in mlm. When do you hear any professional who owns his or her business or a doctor brag how much money they make? We usually consider them as arrogant. I don’t go around telling people I am a platinum level employee or business owner.
If vemma is so good for people then let the product speak for itself and be more concern about the benefits of the product rather than the more people you get signed up below you to make you ” financially independent.” This is why vemma is so expensive, it is marketed to a person so that to get it at a somewhat reasonable price you might as well be a brand level 1099 employee in hopes you will get others under them too.
Anonymous says
Here is my summation regarding Vemma. It’s long but well worth the read.
I have tried it, and personally, I couldn’t stand the taste. It taste like Flintstones Chewable Vitamins chopped up with water added. I took the night time Vemma which is suppose to put you to sleep. Well, I tried many a serving and each time, I would fall asleep. But like clock work, I woke up 2 hours later unable to fall back to sleep. The taste was so awful, I dreaded even drinking it. But that being said, I have heard many people finding Vemma wonderful and quite helpful in whatever it is that bothered them. But here is where most of my contention lies with regarding Vemma.
1. On all negative reviews, there always seems to be those in the Vemma Cult, who immediately jump on the person. Like even on this blog. someone mentioned that at the bottom of the bottle were what they thought was a lot of vitamins left. A nasty reply was this.. “Try shaking the bottle before drinking it. It’s not Vemma’s fault that you forgot to “shake well”. Why does the comment need to be so nasty? I see this a lot with the Vemma employees. Just so that person knows, I too have seen this, and have had to add water, this after shaking the bottle several times before opening. Whatever is at the bottom, just seems to float to the bottom before I could drink it.
2. The products are so expensive. One can’t just purchase the products from the company. No, you have to be hooked up with an agent type and they of course get your “residuals”. However, if I want the product at their price, I have to be a “brand member”, but this is to get me hooked as an employee or rather 1099 employee. Then I must purchase at least $160.00 worth of the product each month, meanwhile even off of my discount, those above me, and my Agent get my residuals too.
3. They are very cleaver when you do purchase on line for the first time. In a small box sits at the right hand corner of the online order page, a place where you will not necessarily notice, but a check is automatically marked in the box. This means you are agreeing for them to just send you out randomly another order the next month. Prior to the only time I ordered on line, I had never seen something like this. Therefore, I didn’t notice it. Yet, the next month they sent me out $250 worth of products, and not even what I ordered in the first place. I called them up, only to be told that I needed to “uncheck” the box if I didn’t want another order. In which I replied,” no, that box should automatically be unchecked, unless I want more, then I will call, or check the box for automatic shipments”. I was able to return the products and they did refund me, but I had to pay for the UPS shipping first, and take my chances that they would reimburse me all my money.
4. The Vemma employees are pom-pas. They are always bragging about this product and all the money they make. You’ll often see on FB, “I just drank my verve, going off to my yacht now.” They mostly brag about all the money they supposedly make. They rank their levels as Brand member, silver, gold, platinum etc. It all sounds so good. Wow, Gold!! They are always so eager for someone to join so the newbie too can have their own line on the market and have a lifetime of residual income. at Gold, I think, they even get a BMW. Or so they like us to believe they get this car. Further research shows that a Gold person makes about $11,000 a year, and the BMW is leased in their name. So, if they fall short of their monthly goal in getting people signed up under them (which needs to be at least 100 people for Gold) then guess who is paying for the lease? not Vemma. Yet, when you point this little deception out to the Vemma members, they all love to criticize the messenger by saying, “Yes, this is true, but, nobody is going to give a BMW to a lazy person”.
So, it’s the person who a month before received t he BMW, who is now lazy this month. Perhaps he lost some residual income. It’s the golden carrot. When people point out that $11,000 a year isn’t really that much, and many people can make that and more plus benefits at a more traditional job, the Vemma person will bark back, “So, what makes you think you should get health benefits where you work?” Like as if the person is depending on government subsides.
5. When I read some of my friends post who are in Vemma they are always bragging about the big Vemma meeting they were just at. They actually sound like they were at a worship service. But who and what are they worshiping? One friend told me that her cousin wrote her trying to get her to join Vemma, stating that the product is so good it’s like having “Jesus in a bottle.” Really?
6 It seems more like those selling Vemma are really not in the market to sell a health product, but rather to appear to make “lots” of money. But seldom do they make that much. Yes, I suppose if you were in on the ground floor, one could make a lot of money because they might have a lot of people under them. But, I wonder how much most people actually make.
And shouldn’t the focus be more on the product and not the get rich quick scheme? Oh, excuse me. Vemma employees, say it is not a get rich quick scheme, you have to work long and hard to build your clientele, but this is not how they sell you on it when they want you to join. I believe if the product was so wonderful, the price would be half of what it is and they wouldn’t need all this coaxing, and gimmicks to get people to buy, or become “brand members”.
Heck if the Arizona Suns, Opra and Dr Oz think it is wonderful, that alone should provide them with enough exposure to market in stores or even online.
7. They prey on sick people too. One Vemma distributor stated that the reason her mother lived so long with the the stage 4 cancer is that she was taking Vemma. The brother didn’t have the heart to tell his sister that this was not true, because the mother never drank the Vemma. I don’t like that tactic in selling.
8. On the one hand, Vemma employees act like they have all this financial freedom and they vacation all the time, when in fact they will criticize those that dropped out as being lazy and if they only worked hard, one could make an extra $100 – $200 a month. So which is it? one has to work real hard, long hours, travel to these Vemma Cult meetings (but they get to write off their travel) and they hardly have anytime to do anything else in life. All this for a possible hope for $1000 more a year.
8. Which brings me to my last point. I think the Vemma diehards are very critical of those ex cult members who have been involved in the company and found it sort of a scam, or not for them, and chose to get out. Meanwhile, they are suppose to keep quiet and not express their views. These ex-vemmites, are taking money out of the faithfuls pockets sort a speak. The less people on the pyramid chain (oops, don’t say Vemma is a pyramid) the less residual money flows in their pockets.
Again, I am not arguing with the benefits or non-beneficial effects that VEMMA products have, but I hate the way it is marketed. I will freely market something for anyone if I think it is a good product. But, when I see this sort of marketing where they are looking for college students (minds full of mush) to do their selling, and leaving full scholarships for a pipe dream, or others going broke purchasing these products hoping to sell them to make money, It makes me wonder if the product they are packaging really is beneficial for one’s health or is the lure of the almighty dollar is what drives them. PS. No negative talk at a Vemma meeting.
Just my thoughts.
Joe says
Anonymous, interesting insights. I appreciate you taking the time to write all of that.
Team CTW LLC says
Dear Anonymous,
Since you took the time to type all that out for us, I feel as though it’s only right to respond with a response that’s just as thoughtful.
First off, I’d like to say thank you for giving us a try. I’m sorry that it didn’t work out for you and that you didn’t like the taste. I’ve never had the chance to try the Vemma PM product (I believe has been replaced by our bod-e product) but personally, I love the taste of Vemma. I actually get cravings for the taste and I find it much easier to drink than even the V8 fruit juices or anything like that. I offer samplings all the time at events and I’ve only encountered a handful of grimaces, and most of the time they all agree that it actually tastes good! But obviously taste is personal to everyone, my suggestion is definitely to try a sample before you buy if you can, otherwise, take advantage of the 30 day guarantee.
1. About the behavior of some of our brand partners (especially those who frequent the internet) I do find that I run into a lot of immaturity. Many have never had a real job or real experience in customer service and many don’t strive to acquire those skills. So yes, we have many like that and I sincerely wish I could do something about it. My only solution was to at least influence those within my network and my organization and start a different culture.
2. One CAN just purchase the products from the company! That’s exactly what each and every one of us are doing when we go to a brand partner’s website. Each product is shipped directly from Vemma to your front door. Brand partners and customers both pay the exact same price. We don’t pay any extra to become a brand partner, nor do we get a discount because we are brand partners.
For those who love the product but think the product is a little expensive should take advantage of the customer referral program where you can get your products for free if you refer 3 people. Help someone find the value in the product, have it conveniently shipped to their doorstep every month and get rid of all of their other supplements or help them START to live a healthy lifestyle. Do you know anyone that drinks unhealthy energy drinks all the time? Do you know someone who’s always getting sick? Do you know someone with children that aren’t getting their daily vitamins and minerals? Help them, and you can get your products for free!
If you like them a lot and you have a family and want to purchase a lot of products, consider joining the business. Besides the compensation plan, there’s a multitude of tax benefits that comes along with owning your own international marketing business. Usually you can get your products paid for by those tax benefits alone!
3. I don’t know about when you purchased your products but now, our auto-delivery system is listed all over. It’s pretty hard to miss and if you were working with a brand partner, they should be mentioning its benefits. With auto-delivery, not only do you get the convenience of not having to worry about running out of products and reordering, you’re also eligible for the customer referral program.
4. I think we all can agree that we should choose the source of information. Not all brand partners are equal in their understanding of Vemma’s products or opportunity. Unfortunately with the younger generation, some of these tactics work and work well and for some, that’s all they’re taught by their mentors. But one thing that I believe is a positive and that I don’t see anything wrong about is the fact that they want to share the product and opportunity with others.
We are all walking billboards, our Facebook filled with recommendations and reviews of products. We advertise for companies and products all the time without even noticing it. Network marketing in its purest form is just word-of-mouth advertisement. You recommending a product to a friend because you love it and you think they can benefit from it as well. It’s as simple as that. And a company like Vemma will actually pay you for a successful recommendation as opposed to you successfully recommending a movie to your friends, in which the only people who really made any significant money is Brad Pitt.
If someone really wants to know about the Platinum club bonus, which is a $400/month bonus towards a car or now you can put it towards your college tuition or student loan debt, again, ask someone knowledgeable. There is no monthly enrollment goal. If you pointed that out and the brand partner responded with such an unintelligent response, again, I suggest you choose a better source for your information.
And to respond to your comparison with a traditional job, the great thing about Vemma and other network marketing opportunities is that you can do this at the same time. You can make $10,000/yr with Vemma AND work your other job. But with residual income, the work you put in can pay you for the rest of your life. And again, tax benefits galore!
5. Being in Vemma and succeeding in Vemma or actually anything in life starts with a mindset. I agree that some take it too far and just like religion, no one likes to have it shoved in their face and down their throats but having that mindset is important. If you think you’ll fail, you will. If you think you’ll succeed, you will. Everything starts with that mindset. Being with people who want to succeed and who want you to succeed is such a great feeling. If you surround yourself with positive people they will bring you up. Surround yourself with negative people they will bring you down.
6. BK Boreyko’s (our CEO) purpose is not for him to make money. He squashed a rumor out there that Coca-Cola wanted to buy him out for $2.2 Billion and he responded that first of all it was just a rumor, and secondly that even if it were true he wouldn’t do it. He already has enough money and is satisfied with what he is making. He is building this company so he can pass it on to his children and in the process he is giving ordinary people like us the opportunity to make life-changing money.
Compared to other retail companies who operate with an employee expense of around 20%, Vemma paid out nearly 50% of their revenue back to their consumers who recommend their products and opportunity to others because people just don’t buy things that they don’t know. Even with Vemma being the official energy drink of the Arizona Suns, and Verve being on the Dr. Oz show, I’m sure if you ask most people, they wouldn’t know about the product and it’s benefits.
7. If she didn’t know her mother never drank it, then that’s not her fault. If she thought her mother drank it and that was the reason, I’d get on a hilltop and shout it out too. If it would possibly give an extra day with their loved ones, who wouldn’t? I give away free monthly supplies all the time to people who are sick. We can’t make health claims but if it works, great! I’ve had testimonials from family members on my team on its effects and it helped me with my adult acne too.
8. Vemma has a performance based compensation plan, which means the more effort you put into it, the more it will pay you residually. The reality is that there are 19 and 20 year olds who are making not $1000 more per year but hundreds of thousands more per year after their first year in Vemma. Results aren’t typical, not everyone puts in the time to understand the products and opportunities and how to effectively market them. If you take the time to sit down with someone who really understands the compensation plan, you can see that it’s not a get-rich quick and it’s definitely not easy to make millions. Network marketing isn’t a perfect business; it’s just better.
8. If one truly understands the compensation plan and what it takes to become a successful business owner and successful at Vemma, most will agree that it in fact is just a matter of time and effort. If we are all working with the same products and the same compensation plan, how is it that one person can make a residual income of thousands every week within 2 years and other can’t make anything? Simple! Time and effort. It’s not a sprint, it’s a marathon. It’s not a get-rich quick, it’s a work your ass off for a few years so you can live the rest of your life!
Vemma just sent out a message to their brand partners and they are addressing a lot of your concerns. Here it is verbatim:
“We should not criticize working parents, professors, college students or discourage attending college. We should market the numbers (i.e., $1.3 trillion student loan debt, 52% of college grads unemployed, 46% of those college grads who are working work in jobs that don’t require a degree, etc.) and promote the new College Tuition Bonus option for the Platinum Club Program;
Whenever you make an income claim or show pictures of your Platinum Club vehicle, please add the proper income disclosure statement as follows: “The success or failure of each individual is dependent on their own efforts. The Company has generally expected results which can be obtained by visiting vemma.com/backoffice/pdf/income-disclosure.pdf.
But yes, I think the amount of debt taken on by students through student loan debt is a much more staggering amount than the $150/month they would spend drinking a healthy* energy drink or tasty & healthy* iced tea drink that they would’ve spent on unhealthy energy drinks or sugary unhealthy iced tea drinks! **These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
-Team CTW
Joe says
Team CTW, this is off topic a bit but do you know how much the average Vemma distributor makes per month? Im always curious about the average monthly income for an MLM business as I feel it helps people get better estimate of what they might make (as opposed to hearing only about those who make huge amounts of money). If you ever saw this statistic, let me know. If not, no biggie.
Team CTW LLC says
Yes, last year Vemma distributors made an average of $428.09/month. Even those on the most bottom, made on average $55.65/month which means they’re getting $150 worth of products for less than 2/3 it’s price before the tax benefits.
If anyone is considering Vemma as an MLM, I encourage them all to first find a product they like. Make the money aspect secondary. That’s the best advice I can give.
-Tak
Joe says
Team, thanks for that info!
Christal says
For what it’s worth, I’ve been in the business six months and make close to $2000/month in residual income.
What’s more exciting for me, are the dozens of lives I’ve seen change healthwise with this phenomenal product. My Mom, who has been on disability for years, is living again. My teen son, no longer suffers with IBS, a close friend cancelled her hysterectomy after her body started regulating itself again, my migraines are gone….I could go on.
Like anything, it’s not for everyone, but I can’t deny what it’s done for those close to me.
Research Dr. John Edwards (the African American doctor…not the psychic…lol) for more of the health effects of mixing mangosteen and minerals…he knows his stuff. 🙂
Team CTW, appreciated your reply.I’ve had a very different experience with Vemma and it’s representatives. Love the company, it’s products and having been in marketing ten years before joining Vemma…it’s compensation plan is fantastic!
Joe says
While I try to focus only on supplements and stay away from the MLM aspect of things, I was reading this article on MLM income claims and I thought I’d pass it along
http://thompsonburton.com/mlmattorney/2013/07/02/mlm-income-claims-basic-guidelines-for-companies-and-distributors-ftc/
I hope it helps.
Chelene Ross says
Hi Joe,
Thanks for setting up this very informative site. I am about to become involved in the business side and look forward to a healthier family. I am concerned about the ‘negative’ comments. If we are selling and people are taking the product we won’t know everyone’s medical history. It sounds good to say “consult your doctor” but doctors most probably won’t know the product??? How do we get past this?
Anti-deppressants and stronger drugs are also a concern as we will not know the effect on the individual. Perhaps creating a short ‘Health Watch to Consider’ for pregnant mom’s and those on medication could be helpful??
Thanks again,
Chelene Ross – SA
Joe says
Chelene, Thanks I’m glad you found me! You have a point about not knowing the medical issues of the people being sold supplements. It really gets complicated when you think about it because even if they told what their health issues were, would the person selling the supplement understand what to do with that information? Some doctors are better with supplements than others but one group that usually knows a lot about this are pharmacists. They are also easier to see than doctors also.