Shocking Findings From a Major Investigation
I feel compelled to share with you a news article posted in the Washington Post this past February about a massive herbal supplement scam uncovered at four major retailers. To summarize, New York's Attorney General Eric Schneiderman instructed GNC, Target, Wal-Mart, and Walgreens to immediately stop selling several fraudulent herbal supplements.
The investigation revealed that many of their best-selling supplements not only failed to work but were potentially dangerous. An incredible 4 out of 5 products (79%) contained no DNA of the plant listed on the label and were instead filled with contaminants. Only 21% of store-brand herbal supplements contained what the label claimed.
What This Means in Daily Practice
Every week, I’m asked by patients whether the supplements they purchase from local grocery stores, Costco, Walmart, etc., are adequate. My answer is always the same — “I have no idea.”
The truth is simple: unless the manufacturer tests for purity, potency, and quality, you really don’t know what you are getting. Some brands run only a few tests; others invest in extensive quality-control processes. This difference is exactly what separates practitioner-grade brands from generic store brands. With practitioner brands, you know the product has been verified and tested for your safety and the safety of your family.
Why Oakway Naturals Is Different
Every brand carried at Oakway Naturals has been selected for its commitment to purity, potency, and accurate labeling. This means you can rest assured that what you are putting into your body is exactly what the label states — free of contaminants and made from the highest-quality ingredients available.
Examples of Our Quality Standards
Two of our most popular brands — Pure Encapsulations and Metagenics — submit all their products to third-party laboratories for comprehensive testing. Each ingredient and finished product is evaluated for:
- Potency
- Ingredient identity
- Microbial contaminants
- Pesticide residues
- Heavy metals (e.g., lead, mercury)
- Allergens
- Other potential adulterants
Other trusted brands we carry, such as Douglas Laboratories and Thorne Research, follow similarly rigorous testing practices — allowing us to confidently guarantee the purity and accuracy of what you purchase.
Bioavailability Matters
Our brands stand apart not just in purity but in bioavailability — how efficiently your body absorbs and uses the nutrients. Not all ingredients with the same name behave the same in the body.
For example, I previously discussed the superior absorption of CoQ10 in its ubiquinol form compared to the less effective ubiquinone. Choosing the right form ensures your body receives the support you intend.
A Final Word of Advice
We know you care about your health, so keep reading labels carefully and don’t settle for unverified supplements.
Until next time, stay healthy!
Yours in health,
Dr. Gregg Gittins
