Protandim Nrf1 and Nrf2 is a two-part dietary supplement that has been receiving a lot of attention. It is designed to increase cognitive performance and reduce oxidative cell damage that contributes to the aging process. In the ongoing quest to discover what dietary supplements work and which ones don’t, our research team was tasked with performing an in-depth analysis of the product, its ingredients, possible side effects and performance.
Our team wanted to know if the official website made any claims that were dubious or unrealistic. The research team took a close look at any available clinical research on Protandim and its ingredients. Our team’s analysis also accounted for hundreds of past and present consumer reviews and experiences. Our team summarized their findings here to provide you with just the facts.
Protandim can be purchased through their Official Site.
What is Protandim?
First off, Protandim is two different health supplements: Protandim NRF1 Synergizer (released first) and Protandim NRF2 Synergizer. Together, these products aim to boost cognitive performance and brain health and reduce oxidative stress that contributes to aging.
We all experience cellular stress through the process of living (eating, sleeping, breathing, and exercising), and Protandim aims to slow this down.
Both are available over-the-counter but help in different ways. Here is a better look at what each supplement contains:
Protandim NRF1 Synergizer (new breakthrough formula)
- Acetyl L-Carnitine
- Quercetin
- Grape Extracts (skin, pulp, seed)
- Alpha Lipoic Acid
- CoQ10
Protandim NRF2 Synergizer (original breakthrough formula)
- Milk Thistle Extract
- Bacopa Extract
- Ashwagandha Extract
- Green Tea Extract
- Turmeric Extract
Update 2021: Protandim has expanded its line to include a Tri-Synergizer, Dual Synergizer, NAD Synergizer, Vitality Stack, Ultimate Stack, Activated Essentials, Activation + Energy Stack, in addition to their main two products. These range from $89 to $286.99/month.
Update 2022: LifeVantage has added a Protandim Tri-Synergizer, which is made up of Protandim Nrf1, Nrf2, and NAD.
Protandim Customer Service and Better Business Bureau (BBB) File
There are several options for contacting LifeVantage customer service. Including:
Talk & Text: 1-866-460-7241
Email: support@lifevantage
Chat: Via the official website
The company isn’t BBB accredited, but it has earned an A+ score from the BBB. The overall customer rating is 3.67 out of 5 stars based on two reviews. Six total complaints have been closed in the past three years, but none in the previous 12 months.
Protandim Competitors
| Product |
Review
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|---|---|---|
| ActivatedYou Morning Complete | read | |
| Bulletproof Collagen Protein | read | |
| Liquid Biocell | read | |
| Noom | read | |
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Other similar products: Zeal For Life
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Protandim Product Line
- Omega+
- Daily Wellness
- AXIO® Regular
- AXIO® Decaf
- ProBio
- PhysIQ™ Prebiotic
- PhysIQ™ Fat Burn
- PhysIQ™ Whey Protein
- TrueScience® Skin Care, Hair Care, Personal Care Products
- Petandim® for Dogs
- Tri-Synergizer
- Dual Synergizer
- NAD Synergizer
- Ultimate Stack
- Activated Essentials
- Activation + Energy Stack
Does Protandim contain caffeine?
Yes, Protandim contains 1.8 mg of caffeine per tablet.
Also, each Protandim supplement is 100% vegetarian and free of allergens such as dairy, wheat, gluten, yeast, and gelatin. This makes it easier for people with allergies to use these products safely.
Before we get started digging through all the detailed research on Protandim, we wanted to touch base on the idea of supplements for cognitive improvement. Does this formula show promise in clinical study?
- Antioxidants – “Protandim, a combination of five herbal ingredients, potently protects against oxidative stress.” However, the research was only done on individual cells, making it difficult to determine if these effects would happen in the body.
- PLOS One – Found that Protandim had no significant effects on running time, oxidative stress, antioxidant levels, or quality of life in runners.
- Journal of Applied Physiology – Research also shows Protandim may support proteostasis, which “is a key mechanism for preserving cell function.”
Scroll below for one of the best products we’ve seen over the last year.
Protandim Benefits
Now for a closer look at the actual benefits of LifeVantage Protandim. Each supplement has different things to offer, and the official website elaborates on the effects of these formulas.
Protandim NRF1 Synergizer Benefits
- Increased mitochondria production
- Improve performance through energy production
- Enhance cellular health – cells function at peak performance
- Reduced cellular aging
- Promotes better sleep quality and promotes cellular repair
- Increase cellular energy (ATP)
WARNING: Not for use by individuals under the age of 18.
Instructions: Take two tablets with food and a glass of water in the morning.
Protandim NRF2 Synergizer Claimed Benefits
- Help body detoxify
- Help body repair and rejuvenate its cells
- Reduces cellular stress (through NRF2 activation)
- Produces enzymes that combat harmful free radicals
- Lowers oxidative stress by 40% in only 30 days
Instructions: One tablet daily with food (for adults)
Dual Synergizer Claimed Benefits
- Turn on natural antioxidant production
- Repair and rejuvenate cells
- Protect cells from free radical damage
- Promotes cellular repair
- Boost cellular health
- Improve sleep quality
About LifeVantage
LifeVantage Corporation is the multi-level marketing (MLM) company behind Protandim products. This company has been in business since at least 2003 and has a solid A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Their average customer rating (based on three customer reviews) is 3.67/5.
The scientist behind this supplement is Dr. Joe McCord. He was once a Chief Scientific Officer. According to the company website, Protandim appeared on Primetime in 2005.
Back then, it was sold in retail stores but is now available more exclusively through authorized dealers.
In 2012, the company announced a voluntary recall and replacement of select lots of Protandim due to a potential health risk of metal fragments in the final product due to contaminated turmeric extract.
Here is the corporate contact info that’s presented on the official website:
LifeVantage Corporation
3300 N Triumph Blvd, Suite 700
Lehi, UT 84043
LifeVantage Company Chart
- Type: Public
- Industry: Multi-level marketing (MLM) company
- Founded: 2003
- Headquarters: Salt Lake City, Utah, United States
- Products: Dietary supplements, skincare
- Website: www.lifevantage.com
Other products offered by this brand include supplements for beauty, fitness, pets, and other nutritionals, some of which are as follows:
- AXIO (regular and decaf)
- LifeVantage Omega+
- Petandim x3
- IC Bright
PhysIQ Products
- PhysIQ Fat Burn
- PhysIQ Prebiotic
- PhysIQ Whey Protein
LifeVantage Customer Service Contact Information
- Email: [email protected] and [email protected]
- Call or Text: 1(866)460-7241
Protandim and the FDA
In January 2017, the FDA sent a warning letter to LifeVantage regarding Protandim. According to the government agency, LifeVantage was selling the product as a drug, not a supplement. The wording has since been changed, and now LifeVantage complies with certain laws, according to the Food and Drug Administration.
Protandim Research
There is some science presented on the official website that supports Protandim’s results.
As for Protandim NRF2 Synergizer, there were actual studies conducted showing that this health supplement can activate the NRF2 protein, provide protective antioxidant enzymes, and reduce oxidative stress levels up to 40% in only 30 days.
What’s more, this formula elevates glutathione by 300%, superoxide dismutase by 30% and catalase by 54%.
Also, there is substantial research that supports the antioxidant ingredients in this supplement. These ingredients include Turmeric, Green Tea, Bacopa, Milk Thistle, and Ashwagandha.
Protandim Ingredients
Let’s hone in on the product’s ingredients to understand better how these health supplements work.
Ingredients include:
- Milk Thistle
- Bacopa Extract
- Ashwagandha
- Green Tea Extract
- Turmeric Extract
Calcium
According to the National Institutes of Health, calcium is an important mineral found in kale, milk, almonds, cheese, broccoli, and tofu.
Turmeric extract
A plant that commonly grows in India, South America, and some other parts of Asia. It’s often used as a food spice and is related to the ginger plant.
Also, turmeric has been approved in some countries to aid with digestive problems such as gas and bloating, according to Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology.
Milk thistle seed
Also called holy thistle, this is a herb that contains a flavonoid called Silymarin, which has antioxidant effects.
Ashwagandha root
Sometimes called Withania somnifera, or Indian ginseng, this root is often used in Ayurvedic medicine, according to the African Journal of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicines.
Bacopa monnieri herb
An herb that is often used in over-the-counter nootropic supplements.
Green tea leaf
Also called Camellia Sinensis, this plant contains both caffeine and EGCG (catechins). It’s consumed as a beverage and has been tied to health benefits, according to research published in the Proceedings of the Japan Academy, Series B.
Rhodiola Rosea root
A Scandinavian herb that is often used in traditional Chinese medicine. It’s typically claimed to boost cognitive function, promote longevity, and reduce mental fatigue, according to BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine. This substance is found in many over-the-counter nootropics.
Alpha-lipoic acid
A potent antioxidant found in foods like potatoes, broccoli, tomatoes, spinach, yams, and yeast. It is said to boost the health of the immune system, aid with weight loss, and protect the body from harmful free radicals, according to Nutrition in Metabolism.
Coenzyme Q10
An antioxidant found in plants, animals, and people. It’s important for proper cell function and producing energy for the body, according to the Journal of Pharmacy & BioAllied Sciences.
Quercetin
A plant polyphenol and bioflavonoid found in various grains, fruits, and vegetables, it is often added to manufactured beverages, supplements, and food products.
Grape stem and fruit extract
According to the International Journal of Food Properties, this fruit and stem extract provides antioxidants (bioactive polyphenols) to ward off free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
Protandim Side Effects
As with any dietary supplement or health product, it may cause some mild side effects. After looking at all sorts of LifeVantage reviews posted online, here are the effects you may notice while taking this product:
- Nausea
- Upset stomach
- Digestive issues
- Headaches
According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, ashwagandha can cause diarrhea, upset stomach, and vomiting.
It is also specified on the official website that Protandim is not for individuals under the age of 18, nor is it for women who are pregnant or nursing a child.
How to Take LifeVantage Protandim
The bottle’s label directions say to take two capsules of Protandim NRF1 Synergizer with a glass of water and food each morning.
As for Protandim NRF2 Synergizer, the instructions say to take one caplet each day with food. There is no mention of a specific lifestyle change with these products. Therefore it does not expect you to exercise regularly or adhere to a particular diet plan.
However, adopting a healthy diet and exercise program will undoubtedly improve your overall wellness, and you will likely see even better results with Protandim.
Note that you can take Protandim supplements together if you choose. Stacking Protandim tablets with other LifeVantage products is acceptable. These include Omega+ (supports brain, cardiovascular, skin, and immune system health) and PhysIQ Probio (supports a healthy immune system and optimizes digestion).
Where to Buy Protandim
At this point, you’re probably wondering where you can buy Protandim. It is available on the official website as a one time purchase and subscription.
On the other hand, we did find LifeVantage Protandim on Amazon.
Therefore, some authorized distributors must be selling the supplements through this dealer website. Unfortunately, common retail stores and health supplement shops no longer sell this product.
Protandim Price
On the official Protandim website:
Protandim NRF1 Synergizer capsules cost $62.99 for a one-time order and $52.49 if you choose a monthly subscription.
Protandim NRF2 Synergizer and NAD cost the same. You can also order both for $108.49 as a one-time order or $90.49 if you choose a monthly subscription.
Protandim Tri-Synergizer costs $161.49 per 30 packets. The subscribe & save price is $134.49.
As for Protandim’s Amazon prices:
NRF1 Synergizer sells for $62.99 with free shipping.
NRF2 Synergizer goes for $60.99.
Nrf1 & Nrf2 Bundle are sold together on Amazon for $103.99. The pricing is widely varied and could change at any time, as these offers are from third-party sellers.
Protandim Tri-Synergizer (Nrf1, Nrf2, and NAD) sells for $151.99 for a one-month supply.
As for a return policy, LifeVantage offers a 100% 30-day refund guarantee. However, you must not have opened the product to qualify for a refund.
Protandim Alternatives
People generally get antioxidants from their diet, including vegetables, whole grains, fruits, beans, seeds, nuts, legumes, and sprouts.
This helps combat daily stressors and free radical damage caused by lifestyle choices, pollution, diet, and work. It’s common to obtain some antioxidants through supplements as well. This is where Protandim fits into the picture. It provides herbal ingredients that offer protection from oxidative stress.
Some research has shown that antioxidant supplements can be helpful.
Here is a closer look at some alternatives to Protandim. These supplements are all available over the counter, and you can find them through online dealers.
- Pure Therapeutics NRF2 Boost
- AMRAP Nutrition Super Berries
- VitaRave
- Sundown Naturals Stress Formula
- Stresstabs
- HUM Nutrition Big Chill
Protandim vs. Thrive
First off, Thrive is a series of products that focus on weight management, whereas Protandim does not claim to help in that field. Protandim is marketed as a “nootropic and stress relief supplement” and doesn’t even demand a special diet or an exercise routine when you are on it.
Thrive, on the other hand, promises “premium support and benefits in the areas of weight management, cognitive performance, digestive & immune support, healthy joint function, lean muscle support, general discomfort, and age-defying & antioxidant support.”
Note that its official website talks about weight management and not weight loss. Therefore, Thrive aims to be a “lifestyle enhancer,” like Protandim, but its focus is on anti-aging and reducing stress levels.
Most important, however, is that there are clinical trials and research to support Protandim’s effectiveness and what it claims to be able to do. Thrive products, on the other hand, have no clinical trials, extensive research, or any concrete science to support its claims.
Protandim vs. Plexus
Plexus products, much like the Thrive line, focus on weight management rather than anti-aging and stress management like Protandim does.
The Plexus website has this to say about one of their most popular products, Plexus Slim: “Slim features a premium microbiome activating formula that contains ingredients clinically demonstrated to improve your gut health and promote weight loss! Feed your gut beneficial prebiotics, support healthy glucose metabolism, and lose weight – all with one great-tasting pink drink.”
Protandim vs. Juice Plus
Juice Plus is a series of dietary powder shakes and bars that contain concentrated fruit and vegetable juices that have added vitamins and nutrients. Some of these include calcium, vitamins C and E, carotenoids, soluble fiber (glucomannan), enzymes, dried probiotics (lactobacillus acidophilus), and folic acid.
Studies that looked into how effective Juice Plus products are at increasing nutrients in the human body have reached mixed conclusions.
It appeared to increase some (beta-carotene, vitamin C, vitamin E, and folate), but, since they were added artificially, it’s not clear if Juice Plus is more effective than other, cheaper products that contain similar amounts of vitamins and nutrients.
Studies on the effects of Juice Plus supplements on reducing oxidative stress and DNA damage, which is far closer to Protandim’s ballpark, have also been mixed. All in all, Protandim does not have a special focus on weight loss or management, so you might want to seek one of these other products if that’s what you’re after.
However, it seems that Protandim is backed by more solid science than any of the other three products we’ve compared it to here. So, if you’re looking to reduce your cellular stress levels and have an anti-aging focus, it’s best to go with what Protandim offers.
What Users Are Saying
“This is a great product. I have severe fibromyalgia. It has helped tremendously.”
“I have been taking Protandim for around 5 months. The difference in how I feel is nonexistent. I still have chronic pain, I still get chronic sinus and respiratory infections (and I’m a runner!), and I still don’t sleep well. This product has placebo effect written all over it. Don’t waste your money on snake oil.”
“I have been taking these daily since 2012. I am 68 and have no aches and pains like most my age.”
The Bottom Line on Protandim
We must admit that Protandim has quite a bit to offer in regard to clinically-backed ingredients and overall health benefits. We even found encouraging scientific research and numerous positive customer comments around the web. This says a lot about this health supplement. On the downside, here are a few concerns we have about Protandim:
- This product is not available in stores, and you must buy Protandim from an authorized dealer.
- There was an FDA warning letter regarding the medical claims on the official website for Protandim NRF2 Synergizer, but it looks like they corrected this issue.
- These health supplements do not help with fat loss or weight management.
- If you’re striving to reduce damage from stress, improve health, boost energy and enhance cognitive performance, consider pairing Protandim with a supplement that contains a clinically-tested ingredient combo shown to spark energy levels and promote a healthy weight.
Of all the weight-loss products on the market, the one that stands out to us is Noom. This clinically-proven app was designed by medical doctors and nutrition professionals, so you know you’re getting the right stuff. The app comes with human coaching, personalized meal plans, exercise tracking and a wealth of resources so you get to your ideal weight and stay there.
Plus, because the app has worked for so many people, Noom is offering Dietsupplement readers a free trial offer.
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Protandim Questions & Answers
Protandim is a two-part dietary supplement that aims to increase cognitive performance, promote brain health, and reduce oxidative stress that contributes to the aging process. It consists of Protandim NRF1 Synergizer and Protandim NRF2 Synergizer, which are available over-the-counter and help in different ways. Protandim NRF1 Synergizer contains Acetyl L-Carnitine, Quercetin, Grape Extracts, Alpha Lipoic Acid, and CoQ10, while Protandim NRF2 Synergizer contains Milk Thistle Extract, Bacopa Extract, Ashwagandha Extract, Green Tea Extract, and Turmeric Extract.
Yes, each Protandim supplement is 100% vegetarian and free of allergens such as dairy, wheat, gluten, yeast, and gelatin, making it easier for people with allergies to use these products safely.
Protandim has been studied in several clinical studies. Antioxidants – “Protandim, a combination of five herbal ingredients, potently protects against oxidative stress.” However, the research was only done on individual cells, making it difficult to determine if these effects would happen in the body. PLOS One – Found that Protandim had no significant effects on running time, oxidative stress, antioxidant levels, or quality of life in runners. Journal of Applied Physiology – Research also shows Protandim may support proteostasis, which “is a key mechanism for preserving cell function.”
Protandim NRF1 Synergizer has several benefits, including increased mitochondria production, improved performance through energy production, enhanced cellular health, reduced cellular aging, promotion of better sleep quality and cellular repair, and increased cellular energy (ATP).
Protandim NRF2 Synergizer has several benefits, including helping the body detoxify, helping the body repair and rejuvenate its cells, reducing cellular stress through NRF2 activation, producing enzymes that combat harmful free radicals, and lowering oxidative stress by 40% in only 30 days.
Protandim can be purchased using their Official Site.
No, Protandim is not suitable for individuals under the age of 18.
Protandim is generally well-tolerated, but some people may experience side effects such as stomach upset, diarrhea, nausea, or skin rash.
Protandim ingredients include milk thistle, bacopa extract, ashwagandha, green tea and turmeric.
There a several studies listed on the Protandim website. We noticed several dealt with oxidative stress, as well as the antioxidant effect of Protandim ingredients. Based on research and customer testimonials, there’s a chance you’ll have success.
Protandim has expanded its line to include a Tri-Synergizer, Dual Synergizer, NAD Synergizer, Vitality Stack, Ultimate Stack, Activated Essentials, Activation + Energy Stack, in addition to its main two products. These range from $89 to $286.99 per month.
For Protandim NRF1 Synergizer, take two tablets with food and a glass of water in the morning. For Protandim NRF2 Synergizer, take one tablet daily with food.
Protandim does come with a guarantee. You have 30 days to return the supplement for a full refund.
Protandim NRF1 should be taken on an empty stomach with a full glass of water. After half an hour, Protandim NRF2 may be taken with food. Each dose is two capsules.
There are 1.8 milligrams of caffeine per capsule. In comparison, a “caffeine-free” coffee typically contains between 4-7 milligrams and a Starbucks coffee can contain up to 150 milligrams.
Protandim supplements claim to decrease oxidative stress.
Protandim is not approved by the FDA.
According to Protandim, users should start seeing results after 2 weeks of continued consumption.
No, Protandim is not certified organic.
Yes, Protandim can help you sleep better. It is a natural supplement that contains several clinically studied ingredients that have been shown to improve sleep quality and duration. This includes melatonin, which helps regulate the body’s natural sleep-wake cycles, as well as valerian root and L-theanine which both have calming effects on the nervous system that can help with insomnia.
No, LifeVantage is not BBB accredited, but it has earned an A+ score from the BBB. The overall customer rating is 3.67 out of 5 stars based on two reviews. Six total complaints have been closed in the past three years, but none in the previous 12 months.
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