As a Wellness Coach with 20 years of experience in Corporate Health and Wellness, I’ve been asked to evaluate many health products.  Over the years, I’ve encountered my fair share of misleading claims about programs, supplements, packaged foods, and gadgets. While these products often promise better health outcomes, they’re vague about how they actually deliver on that promise. It’s been my job to ask the tough questions, research the facts, and help determine whether the product justifies its cost and can truly make a difference.

Most people aren’t paid to critically assess wellness products. Instead, they’re juggling multiple goals, priorities, and decisions. I can relate to how overwhelming it can be for someone trying to eat healthier to spend hours in the grocery store scanning labels and weighing options. So how can you quickly separate fact from fiction and ensure you’re investing your time and money in products that will actually work for you?

Here are four strategies to help busy people make smarter wellness choices without getting lost in the details. (After all, not everyone has time for a 4-hour internet deep dive into the health benefits of turmeric!)

1. Ignore the Front of the Package– Marketing buzzwords like “natural,” “immune-boosting,” and “superfood” are designed to catch your eye, but they mean very little. Flip to the back and read the ingredients list.  If a supplement contains “proprietary blends” without listing exact amounts, it’s a red flag.  If a packaged food has a long list of unrecognizable ingredients, think twice.
2. Look Beyond “Clinically Proven” Claims– Supplements and devices often flaunt phrases like “scientifically tested” or “clinically proven”, but that doesn’t mean much unless the study was peer-reviewed, large-scale, and independent.  Look for third-party certifications like NSF Certified for Sport, USP Verified, or Informed Choice.  Check for independent clinical validation studies rather than relying on brand-funded research.
3. Ultra-Processed Foods Are Sneaky (Even the “Healthy” Ones) – I’ve definitely fallen for this before, and thought a high-protein bar or gut-health drink must be good for me. Many of these are just ultra-processed foods in disguise. And ultra-processed foods, even when labeled as “healthy,” can still mess with your gut health.  Prioritize whole food ingredients over artificial additives and sweeteners. If the first few ingredients include things like maltodextrin, seed oils, or artificial sweeteners, reconsider.
4. Before Buying Anything, Ask Yourself: What am I actually hoping to achieve with this? How will I measure whether it’s working for me?  This last step is key. We are all an experiment of one! What works for me might not work for you. Instead of chasing the latest trend, get clear on your goal, try it intentionally, and track your results. If you don’t see meaningful benefits, it’s probably not worth your time (or money).

When in doubt, keep things simple!  Stick to real food, science-backed essentials, and products that pass the scrutiny test. Need help evaluating or doing the “simple things” consistently, reach out.  I’m happy to help you create strategies to support your goals.

Carolyn Kontos, MS, ACC, offers Wellness & Nutrition Coaching at the JCC through her Eat Well Programs. For more information, contact Carolyn at ckontos@jccpgh.org

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