Claims on weight-loss and immune-system supplements are frequently lacking in evidence and in violation of government regulations. An investigation by the Department of Health and Human Services Inspector General found illegal claims on 20% of 127 supplements examined. Some products even claimed to cure or prevent diabetes or cancer or help patients with HIV or AIDS. Many supplements lacked adequate evidence to support their claims: Evidence cited for label claims included a 30-year-old handwritten college term paper, links to Wikipedia, ads and press releases.
