Nootropics for healthy cognitive function

People in many countries, including the U.S., are experiencing an increased life span.1 However, the aging population aims not just for increased, but optimized, years of life. Paramount to this are strategies to improve cognition or delay age-related cognitive decline. Supporting cognitive function is something that can, and should, be considered, even before the earliest signs of…

Product formulation with plant-based proteins

The increasing popularity of, and consumer demand for, plant-based foods has created a whole new set of challenges for product developers. Whether creating plant-based foods that eat like their animal protein counterparts or developing great tasting standalone plant-based products, the obstacles can be significant. Formulating with plant proteins requires a juggling act when it comes…

Trade groups to Congress: Authorize CBD in supplements

Four dietary supplement trade groups on Tuesday urged Congress to pass legislation clarifying hemp-derived CBD is a lawful dietary ingredient if the supplement meets established product safety and quality criteria. Lawmakers also were asked to devote sufficient resources to shield consumers from unsafe CBD products. While FDA has been examining the potential for a rulemaking…

Applying the ‘E’ for joint health

Whether it’s an aging Boomer, an overworked Gen X weekend warrior or an active Millennial, maintenance joint health is increasingly a top daily concern. It’s a concern that spans generations and is driving consumers to seek out great information on natural solutions. Which raises the specter of the “E” in DSHEA. That “E” stands for…

State hemp and CBD is still not easy to navigate

As FDA continues to contemplate potential regulatory pathways for hemp-derived CBD, an increasing number of states are moving forward with their own laws and policies aimed at regulating this popular product category, especially in the dietary supplement and food space. Several states are imposing robust testing, labeling and registration requirements for these products—with more likely…

Considerations for success in the women’s health market

As with any other population, women have unique nutritional needs, life challenges and preferences that influence their purchasing decisions. Clinical studies have indicated a plethora of promising women’s health ingredients to help address nutrient shortfalls and enhance well-being at all life stages. In fact, Cornell University research identified a correlation between increased choline intake in…

Recent research on brain-boosting nutrients

Everyone wants the best brain they can have. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) defined a healthy brain as “one that can perform all the mental processes that are collectively known as cognition, including the ability to learn new things, intuition, judgment, language and remembering.” Several dietary ingredients have recently shown promise for safely…

Protein powders for an expanding consumer base

Protein powder use among natural consumers is on the rise, according to SPINS data. While the US$892.5 million protein powders segment grew 4.2% over the past year (the 52 weeks ending April 21, 2019), sales in the natural channel of retail grocers grew 8.8% to $156.1 million, outpacing growth for the greater cross-channel segment. Tracking…

Astaxanthin and healthy aging

The aging process is accompanied by numerous health challenges, which will vary from individual to individual due to several factors, including genetics, lifestyle choices, environmental factors and life events. Premature aging is also closely linked to oxidative stress.1 Reactive oxygen species (ROS), otherwise known as pro-oxidants, are formed as by-products of normal metabolism in our…