I've been fortunate to make friends in the scientific community who have shaped my health and wellness outlook, including the supplements I incorporate into my daily routine. I regularly consult with folks like Tim Ferriss, the original biohacker; Peter Attia, my longevity doctor for over a decade; and Rhonda Patrick, a dear friend known for her honesty and expertise in the field.
One common thread among these experts is their emphasis on quality. While this doesn't necessarily mean expensive supplements, it does involve looking for products with third-party lab testing. Many in my circle, including myself, rely on Consumer Lab for this verification - a paid service that's well worth the investment.
Important note: None of the people mentioned above endorse any of the brands or supplements I use. This is my personal stack; please speak to your physician prior to starting any new supplement to ensure it makes sense for you. Lastly, I have zero affiliation with any of the brands listed below.
Overarching Brands I Trust: A Closer Look at Quality
When it comes to supplements, quality is paramount. Here's a more detailed look at the brands I trust and why:
Pure Encapsulations
Known for exceptionally high-quality control and transparency.
All products are certified gluten-free and non-GMO.
Free from unnecessary additives and common allergens.
Manufactured in NSF-GMP registered facilities.
Rigorous third-party testing for purity and potency.
Many healthcare professionals recommend Pure Encapsulations due to their stringent quality standards.
While typically 20-30% more expensive than similar brands, many think the quality justifies the cost for those who can afford them.
Jarrow Formulas
Over 40 years of experience in the supplement industry.
Adheres to cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practices) standards.
Conducts extensive testing, including identity, potency, and purity tests.
Offers a good balance of quality and affordability.
MegaFood (my multivitamin)
Focus on whole food supplements, using real foods in their products.
Certified B Corporation, indicating high social and environmental performance.
Rigorous testing protocol:
Tested for 150+ pesticides and herbicides.
NSF Certified for Good Manufacturing Practices (GMPs).
Non-GMO Project Verified.
Certified Glyphosate Residue Free.
Transparent about their manufacturing process, offering a virtual tour of their facilities.
Uses organic ingredients where possible.
Free from common allergens and artificial additives.
Collaborates with organic farmers to source ingredients.
For me, whole food-based vitamins are very easy on the stomach and don’t give me that empty stomach nausea that other forms can.
Life Extension
Known for their cutting-edge, research-based formulations.
Offers a wide range of unique and specialized supplements.
Conducts and funds scientific research to advance nutritional science.
Uses premium ingredients, often in clinically studied forms and dosages.
Adheres to cGMP standards and conducts rigorous quality testing.
Provides certificates of analysis for many products upon request.
ProMix Nutrition
Specializes in high-quality protein supplements and nutrition bars.
Uses grass-fed whey in their protein products.
Free from artificial sweeteners, flavors, and colors.
Transparent about ingredient sourcing and manufacturing processes.
Products are tested for banned substances, making them safe for athletes.
These brands have earned my trust through their commitment to quality, transparency, and scientific backing. While they may sometimes come at a premium price, the assurance of purity, potency, and efficacy makes them worth the investment in my health.
My Supplement Stack
Pure Encapsulations Vitamin D3 VESIsorb
I take this because my blood levels are low (12) without supplementation.
VESIsorb formulation enhances absorption. This patented technology creates a colloidal system that mimics the body's natural process of fat digestion, significantly improving the bioavailability of fat-soluble nutrients.
Regimine: Taken daily to maintain blood levels around 50 ng/mL.
Buy on Amazon
MegaFood Advanced Multivitamin
Fills gaps in my diet.
Appreciated for their extensive pesticide testing.
Whole food-based vitamins are easy on the stomach.
Regimine: Two daily to fill my nutrition gaps.
Men’s on Amazon | Women’s on Amazon
Pure Encapsulations Ubiquinol VESIsorb
Taken for heart health.
Ubiquinol is the active form of CoQ10, crucial for cellular energy production.
Studies suggest it may improve heart function and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
Regimine: Taken daily
Don’t buy on Amazon; for some reason, they always come damaged. You can find them here directly from Pure.
Pure Encapsulations Collagen JS
For joint health and skin texture.
Personal observation: Noticeably smoother skin.
1000 mg of patented BioCell Collagen. BioCell Collagen is a highly absorbable matrix of hydrolyzed collagen type II, chondroitin sulfate, and hyaluronic acid. This combination mimics the composition found naturally in human cartilage.
Multiple human clinical trials have been conducted on BioCell Collagen. These studies have shown benefits for joint health, skin appearance, and exercise recovery.
Regimine: Taken daily
Buy on Amazon
Pure Encapsulations O.N.E. Omega (Fish Oil)
Extensive research supports fish oil for heart, brain, and joint health.
Omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Supercritical CO2 extracted, triglyceride-form EPA and DHA.
Regimine: 2g, taken daily
Buy on Amazon
CON-CRET Creatine HCl Capsules
Studies show creatine can enhance cognitive performance and support muscle growth and recovery.
Regimine: 750mg daily, 1.5g on weight training days
Buy on Amazon
ProMix Nutrition Protein Puff Bars
For maximizing protein intake between meals or on workout days.
Dr. Peter Attia told me about Promix a few years ago (not an endorsement)
Regimine: Taken on low protein days and/or on weight training days
Note: Some people hate the flavor of these bars (bad reviews); I actually think they taste fine, and I’d take quality protein over additives any day.
Buy on Amazon
Longevity Stack, via Rhonda Patrick’s podcast
Jarrow Formulas Taurine - 1g daily (Amazon)
Jarrow PQQ - 20mg daily (Amazon)
Life Extension Ergothioneine - 5mg daily (Amazon)
Life Extension Zinc Lozenges
Used when feeling a cold coming on.
Research suggests zinc may reduce the duration and severity of common cold symptoms.
Regimine: Taken at the first sign of a cold or when flying
Buy on Amazon
This supplement stack is tailored to my personal needs. However, individual needs may vary, and it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Live well,
*Full transparency: We participate in the Amazon affiliate program. Using these links doesn't change your purchase price, but it does send a small percentage our way to help fund our operations 🙏.
Thanks Kevin, appreciate the insights into your supplement stack and the focus on quality. It could be interesting to follow-up with a short post or podcast guest to discuss the latest advice on strength training / cardio protocols and any recommended gear. Also very much looking forward to the discussion on the future of ARM based processors and would be nice to understand how to separate the marketing hype from the potential rise of NPUs. Things will certainly get interesting in the future with personalised real-time fully generated AI movies and video games, as recently shown with generative AI creating a playable version of Doom 🤯
Thanks for sharing this, Kevin. I'm curious if you've done any research into NAD+ supplements, like Tru Niagen?