Kay Russell is the lead product researcher and supplement strategist for VitaminProGuide.com. A graduate of Indiana University, Kay has spent over a decade deconstructing nutritional labels and investigating the physiological impacts of natural compounds on metabolic health.
Kay’s approach is rooted in evidence-based wellness, focusing on separating clinical research from marketing hype. Whether she is testing the absorption rates of liquid tinctures or analyzing the purity of plant-based superfoods, her mission is to provide readers with first-hand experience and laboratory-backed insights.
When she isn’t deep-diving into NIH clinical trials, Kay can be found hiking the trails of the Midwest or experimenting with nutrient-dense, plant-based recipes in her kitchen.
In Brief Safety: “Fungal Acne” is actually Malassezia Folliculitis (yeast), not bacteria. Treating it with antibiotics or heavy oils will make it explode. You must verify every ingredient against a “Fungal Acne Safe” database. Effectiveness: Clinical data shows that…
In Brief Safety: NAC is a powerful mucolytic. It thins mucus rapidly. If you have a stomach ulcer, NAC can irritate the mucosal lining. Take it with plenty of water to minimize gastric distress. Effectiveness: Clinical data shows that…
In Brief Safety: “Over-methylation” is a real risk. High doses of methyl-donors can trigger severe anxiety, panic attacks, or insomnia in sensitive individuals. If you have Bipolar Disorder, consult a psychiatrist before use, as methylfolate can trigger manic episodes.…
In Brief Safety: Black Cohosh has a rare but documented risk of liver toxicity; always verify the extraction solvent. Pycnogenol is a blood thinner and should not be combined with Warfarin or high-dose Aspirin. Effectiveness: Clinical trials show Pycnogenol…
In Brief Safety: Astaxanthin is a potent carotenoid pigment. High doses (above 48mg/day) can temporarily turn stool red or give skin a slight orange tint. Always ensure the source is Haematococcus pluvialis algae, not petrochemicals. Effectiveness: Clinical data indicates…
In Brief Safety: Probiotics are live bacteria. If you are severely immunocompromised or have a central venous catheter, there is a rare risk of bacteremia. Always consult your doctor before starting high-dose therapy. Effectiveness: Clinical trials show that specific…
In Brief Safety: Phosphatidylserine (PS) is a phospholipid that can thin the blood slightly. If you take Warfarin or Heparin, consult your doctor. Unlike prescription sleep aids, it does not cause sedation or dependency. Effectiveness: Clinical studies show that…
In Brief Safety: Alpha Lipoic Acid is a potent glucose disposal agent. If you take insulin or Metformin, it can drive your blood sugar dangerously low (hypoglycemia). Monitor levels closely. Effectiveness: Clinical trials confirm that only the “R” form…
In Brief Safety: Natural GLP-1 agonists like Berberine affect blood sugar. If you take Metformin or insulin, adding these can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Always monitor your levels. Effectiveness: While they do stimulate the release of GLP-1, they…
In Brief Safety: Undenatured Type II Collagen is generally well-tolerated. However, because it modulates the immune system via the gut, those with severe egg or chicken allergies should verify the source (usually chicken sternum). Effectiveness: Clinical trials indicate that…