Vitamins&Supplements

A few weeks ago I got an interesting email from a colleague at the Cooper Institute for Research informing me of a conversation he had had via email with a representative from Max International, which distributes a new product called Max GXL. This colleague is so great because he didn't hesitate to ask tough questions about the product. Unfortunately, the answers he was given weren't "solid" enough to satisfy him. So, here's the take home message: Don't take an advertisement as the gospel truth.

Max GXL is a dietary supplement that is supposed to increase glutathione levels. It is being sold through the multi-level marketing approach. (red flag number one for me) An increase in glutathione supposedly helps improve health and prevent disease. So, how do you decide if this is something worth trying? You gotta do a little digging.

First, always consider the fact that effective advertising will get you to buy the product. If an ad is done well, it should convince you to buy what they are selling. YOU have to ask for more information and make an INFORMED decision. That being said, what the heck kind of stuff should you even ask???

Well, start with this:

• Does it sound too good to be true?
  
• What kind of research was done on the product? Was it done by a company NOT owned by the manufacturer? Was it a double blind study?
  
• Has more than one study been done? Did any studies show the product NOT effective?
  
• Was any of the research published in MAJOR peer-reviewed science journal (Journal of American Medical Association, Journal of Clinical Nutrition)
  
• Is this product being promoted primarily by testimonials instead of scientific research?
  

In the case of Max GXL, the research is very thin and did not involve double blind studies, nor has any of the research been published to date. That being the case, the smart decision to adopt a "wait and see"attitude. This product may be fantastic, or it could be bogus. Not sure yet. It's ok to decide you aren't sure. It certainly is safer and cheaper!

If there was stuff mentioned above that you don't understand or would like explained in greater detail, that's good! That's what Rudog is for. Become a member of Rudog and get that extra education. It's only $9.95 a month! Go to http://www.rudog.com/. Members will be able to read an article of greater detail there and all those weird terms and expressions are explained.