Structure/Function Claims vs. Disease Claims

You'll notice this whole site says things like “supports memory” and never “treats memory loss” or “reverses cognitive decline.” That's not caution for its own sake — it's a legal line every dietary supplement seller in the US has to respect.

The legal distinction

Under US law, dietary supplements may make “structure/function” claims — general statements about supporting the normal structure or function of the body — but they may not claim to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Only an approved drug can legally make a disease claim.

What “FDA registered” does and doesn't mean

A facility can be FDA-registered, which speaks to manufacturing oversight — it does not mean the FDA has approved, tested or endorsed the product itself. No dietary supplement is “FDA approved.”

Why this matters when you're reading any supplement page

• A page promising to “reverse” or “cure” memory loss is making an illegal claim, not a stronger one
• Structure/function language (“supports,” “promotes,” “helps maintain”) is the legally correct way to describe a supplement's intended benefit
• Every supplement page is required to carry the disclaimer that the FDA hasn't evaluated its statements