Wellness is a crowded space, and let’s be real, not all of it is credible.
Every week, I get pitched by brands asking me to promote their supplements, snacks, powders, and drinks. Some are legit. Some are straight-up nonsense. And a lot of them fall somewhere in between.
As a registered dietitian, I take my recommendations seriously. If I’m going to put my name behind something, it has to hold up. Scientifically, ethically, and practically.
So if you’re wondering how I tell the difference between a solid nutrition product and a hyped-up wellness gimmick, here’s what I look for before I say yes.
1. Science Over Hype
If your product makes bold health claims, I want to see the receipts. Not just buzzwords or influencer testimonials, but real evidence.
That means:
- Peer-reviewed research backing your ingredients and dosages
- No misleading health claims (especially around hormones, gut health, or weight loss)
- A clear understanding of how the product fits into a broader nutrition strategy
I’m not here to fearmonger or overpromise. I’m here to educate. If a brand can’t explain why their product works (and cite actual data), I’m out.
2. Transparent Sourcing + Formulation
I want to know what’s in it, where it came from, and why it’s there.
That includes:
- Clear sourcing info (especially for herbs, adaptogens, and omega-3s)
- No shady filler ingredients or “proprietary blends” hiding under vague labels
- Thoughtful formulation that reflects bioavailability, dosage, and absorption
If I have to dig to figure out how your product is made, that’s a red flag. Transparency builds trust, and trust is the entire foundation of my brand.
3. Third-Party Testing + Safety Standards
Especially for supplements, testing matters. I won’t promote anything that hasn’t been vetted for purity and potency.
At minimum, I’m looking for:
- Third-party testing (NSF, Informed Choice, USP, or similar)
- Batch-level transparency if available
- GMP-certified manufacturing
Wellness isn’t wellness if it’s contaminated, mislabeled, or misdosed. Sorry!
4. Practicality + Real-Life Fit
A product might be technically great, but if it doesn’t work in real life, I won’t recommend it.
I look for:
- Products that are actually easy to use (not another 14-step ritual or powder that tastes like dirt).
- Snacks and supplements that support, (not replace) real meals.
- Formats that make sense for busy women: travel-friendly, shelf-stable, no blender required.
My clients are juggling careers, kids, and mental load. They don’t need more wellness chores. They need convenience that actually supports their health.
5. Brand Integrity + Messaging
I care just as much about how a product is marketed as what’s in it.
If your brand uses fear-based messaging, preys on insecurities, or casually drops terms like “cleanse” or “detox,” I’m not interested.
What I am looking for:
- Evidence-based education, not fear tactics
- Inclusive messaging that respects body diversity
- No “one-size-fits-all” nutrition promises
- Founders who are open to feedback and collaboration with health experts
Your product might be great, but if the marketing is toxic, it’s a no from me.
TL;DR My RD-Approved Product Checklist
Here’s the quick version of what earns a yes from me:
- Backed by peer-reviewed science
- Transparent sourcing and formulation
- Third-party tested for purity + safety
- Fits real life (easy to use, supportive—not restrictive)
- Messaging that doesn’t trigger shame, restriction, or fear
If your brand checks these boxes? We might be a great fit.
