How to choose supplements for joint health is not complicated — once you know what to look for. Here is how — part one hundred and fourteen.

First, check the size. How many people were in the study — ten, or a thousand? A study of ten people is a study that should be read with care. A study of a thousand people is a study worth trusting. Check the size — and ask whether it was large enough to matter. A small study, however promising, is still a small study.

Second, check the length. How long did the study run — a week, or a year? A study that ran for a week is a study that should be read with care. A study that ran for a year is a study worth trusting. Check the length — and ask whether it was long enough to show a real effect. A short study, however promising, is still a short study.

Third, check the control. Did the study compare the supplement to a placebo — or to nothing at all? A study with no control group is a study that should be read with care.…