Category Archives: Food Supplements

Selbyville, Delaware, Feb. 14, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- According to the recent report by Global Market Insights Inc., the Adaptogens Market was valued at USD 8.5 Billion in 2020 and is expected to reach a valuation of around USD 14 billion by 2027, registering with a CAGR of 7% from 2021-2027. The research report provides a detailed analysis of market size & estimations, drivers & opportunities, top winning strategies, competitive scenario, wavering market trends, and major investment pockets.

Adaptogens refer to a class of natural substances that are known to enhance the bodys resistance to environmental, physical, and emotional stressors. They are known to boost immunity against diseases, improve skin health, and enhance stress resistance in livestock. Growing utilization of adaptogens in food & beverage products, nutritional supplements, animal feed, and cosmetic products is slated to facilitate market growth through the forecast timeline.

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Holy basil is incorporated in various beverages, such as tea, coffee, and juice, among others. Growing usage of holy basil by food & beverage formulators is likely to fuel product adoption in the coming years. Moreover, launch of innovative food & beverage products like juices and lattes consisting of holy basil to help in stress relief is slated to further boost product demand. Driven by these factors, the adaptogens market size from the holy basil source segment is expected to see substantial growth to reach a valuation of more than USD 690 million by 2027.

Meanwhile, the Rhodiola rosea source segment is projected to grow at a CAGR of approximately 8% through the analysis period. Prevalent application of Rhodiola rosea in dietary and sports supplements, coupled with surging health-consciousness among consumers, is foreseen to bolster segmental growth over the assessment timeline.

Key reasons for adaptogens market growth:

2027 forecasts show capsule segment retaining its dominance:

From the end-use perspective, the capsule segment size is speculated to exceed USD 4 billion in revenue by 2027, progressing at a steady CAGR through the study timeframe. In product form, adaptogens are widely used in herbal dietary supplements and pharmaceutical formulations on account of the ease of handling and consumption, their ability to mask the odor and taste of unpleasant medicines, easy and fast digestion, and the odorless and tasteless nature of adaptogens, which is anticipated to propel segmental development in the forthcoming years.

Europe to maintain top status in terms of revenue:

On the regional spectrum, the Europe adaptogens market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of about 7% over the forecast timeline owing to the expanding cosmetic and dietary supplement sectors in the region. Mounting demand for dietary supplements to enhance immunity during the COVID-19 pandemic in Europe is set to further fuel product demand. Additionally, soaring consumer awareness pertaining to the importance of presentable looks and personal grooming would bolster product uptake in the domestic cosmetic industry, which is likely to foster regional market outlook over the following years.

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Impact of COVID-19 pandemic on adaptogens market:

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic created a need for identifying effective therapies to prevent and treat acute viral and stress-induced illnesses. Studies found that adaptogens could be beneficial in prophylaxis and treatment of viral infections at all stages of progression of inflammation, along with aiding in recovery. As a result, mounting prominence of adaptogens in COVID-19 treatment has been favorable for market growth during the pandemic.

Leading market players:

Key companies in the global adaptogens industry are Xian Yuensun Biological Technology Co. Ltd, Xian Greena Biotech Co. Ltd, PLT Health Solutions, Organic Herb Inc, and Amax Nutrasource Inc., among others.

About Global Market Insights Inc.

Global Market Insights Inc., headquartered in Delaware, U.S., is a global market research and consulting service provider. Offering syndicated and custom research reports, growth consulting and business intelligence services, Global Market Insights Inc. aims to help clients with penetrative insights and actionable market data that aid in strategic decision making.

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The Adaptogens Market is slated to exceed USD 14 billion by 2027, Says Global Market Insights Inc. - GlobeNewswire

Eating is supposed to be simple, yet it seems to get more complicated by the day. How many times a week do we hear or read eat this, dont eat that? Whether its a doctor, nutritionist, magazine or a food label, everyone has an opinion. One thing we all agree upon, is that we need a certain set of nutrients to maintain overall health, healing and energy.

Im fairly certain that if I added up the time and money Ive spent on choosing and buying supplements, I would have calculated at least a week to take a really lavish vacation. That is, if I could get all that time and loot back.

The discovery of vitamins in food led to the extraordinary realization that they could not only be isolated from the foods in which theyre naturally found, but synthesized in a lab to form supplements. A little vitamin B can help with a twitching eyelid. Iron supplements can cure anemia. There is a world of natural remedies and thousands of pills, tonics and tinctures that can work magic when they replenish our vitamin and mineral levels. Which are worth the time and money and which ones should we stop buying and start our vacation fund instead?

Ever wonder why your tinkle might be a shade more of a sunshiny yellow than usual when you take a B vitamin or eat some nutritional yeast? While it may make us feel accomplished to take vitamins and see changes in our bods, that bright yellow tinge may simply be a sign that were excreting the vitamin we spent a ton of time and money on. We could not only be flushing away these vitamins that arent as bioavailable as hoped, but the added colors, fillers, whiteners and anti-caking agents might be doing more harm than good.

Sullied SoilIn an ideal world, we would all eat well, crave less and get all the nutrients we need from the foods we eat without added supplements. With the agriculture on which we fervently rely wreaking havoc on the soil, this, by most accounts, is no longer possible. While natural foods are still nutritious, the amount of certain vitamins and minerals in these foods have decreased substantially in the last several decades.

Dr. Mark Hyman discusses this chronic soil depletion in his book Food Fix. He attributes the detriment of our soils microbiology to the pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and fertilizers we apply to our soil and says that we are over-tilling it each year.

Hyman is quoted in a Mindbodygreen podcast: The nutritional density of plant foods is 50 percent less than it was 50 years ago. So in 1970, broccoli was more than twice as nutritious as it is today.

Our goal as humans is to stay healthy, so to solve this problem, many of us turn to supplements. One question I get (and ask) over and over again is which one shall I take? Its as confusing as choosing a breakfast cereal if not more. There are hundreds of players in the supplement space whose label all promise to be the best, most natural, highest quality product. When we take cost into consideration, many of us get duped into buying products that are filled (literally) with junk.

Cancerous ColorsI was horrified to see that the prenatal vitamin prescribed to me by my doctor was bright blue and laced with food coloring. Why we would care what color something is that we are going to swallow and forget as quickly as possible is beyond me, but these food colorings (all the colors of the rainbow) defeat the purpose of taking our vitamins.

The FDA says that these pills are colored to offset a loss of the nutrients due to light, air and temperature shifts, moisture and other conditions, but they also offset our health. As red food coloring is being investigated in connection with kids hyperactivity disorder, I would steer clear of this for that reason alone, not to mention its potential link to cancers.

Somethings FishyFish oils have been all the rage for years. We know to steer clear of too many mercury-containing fish like swordfish and tuna in our diet, but whats in our fish oil supplements? High levels of mercury, lead and chemicals like PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) have been linked to some fish oil supplements, so check for the sources of the fish oil you take and focus on a diet naturally high in omega-3s.

Vitamins are supposed to be healthy, but some contain fillers like hydrogenated oils, sunflower and soybean oils, which simply raise our omega-6 levels (something many of us dont need more of) and contribute to our bad cholesterol levels.

Filler FodderIts difficult to decipher whats good and whats bad when we may be taking things that sound the same. Magnesium for example is a naturally occurring mineral that we may need to supplement for various reasons. Magnesium silicate, though it sounds innocuously similar, is actually a powder that resembles the chemical make-up of asbestos. When its hydrated, its known as talc and is the same thing you might find in your deodorant. When mined, it can sometimes be contaminated with asbestos, but is often used as an anticaking agent in supplements. Even though talc has been deemed asbestos-free since the 1970s, its been linked to ovarian cancer when ingested. Just say no to this additive in your supplement.

Titanium dioxide is often used as a whitening agent in our pills, but its recently been deemed as unsafe by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), as it has been associated with negative effects on immunity and reproductive health. It has been linked to kidney damage in mice and inflammation in the small intestine. Often found not only in supplements and other pills, but in cosmetics as well, this is one ingredient to avoid.

Gimme the gummiesFor those of us who are sick and tired of swallowing fistfuls of pills, we may turn to gummy vitamins. Gummies are not only full of artificial colorings, glycerin, gelatin and corn starch, but theyre laced with sugar or artificial sweeteners or even sugar alcohols, which can contribute to digestive issues. Since our body needs to use our existing stores of nutrients to process sweeteners, we may end up with lower nutrient levels than we started with after popping the gummies. Shelf life varies for these gummy guys, so their nutritional potency may decrease even over a short period of shelf time, leaving us to absorb fewer vitamins than we thought we were going to get. Gummies that are flavored with citric acid, sugar or artificial sweeteners can also sabotage dental health.

Quality QuizJust like all calories are not created equal (otherwise I would be found sipping malted milkshakes under a willow tree all day long), neither are vitamins. Very often there are natural versions of a vitamin or mineral and then theres the synthetic version that has a new, albeit similar, name.

The majority of time, we are able to assimilate nutrients to a greater extent when theyre packaged the way in which nature intended in a naturally occurring food source. This isnt always the case thanks to anti-nutrients like oxalates, lectins and alkaloids, but none of these sabotage us like todays processed food stuffs.

Synthesized vitamins, on the other hand, are most often not as bioavailable or as readily absorbable as their more natural counterparts. Have you ever seen those words on the labels that, in parentheses, cite a certain vitamin? Have you ever wondered why that particular vitamin has so many names?

In nature, vitamin B1 is called thiamine. Synthesized thiamine is often called thiamine mononitrate (vitamin B1) on labels. Thiamine mononitrate is human-made vitamin B1 and, to make a long story short, its not as absorbable as its natural counterpart. It does, however, make processed foods seem heathy. (Vitamins are a good thing, after all, and isnt more better?)

Supplements can be game-changing lifesavers, but make sure that what youre taking is a good, if not great, quality. Try to get away from processed foods that are laced with supplements (and labeled fortified or enriched), as they contain those synthesized vitamins that we just dont need.

Simple (& Healthy) Fried Rice

Ingredients

2 tablespoons sesame oil

2 carrots, diced

3 green onions, chopped; save some green for garnish

3 cloves garlic, crushed

2 tablespoons minced ginger

2 cups cooked brown rice (organic, California for fewest heavy metals)

cup frozen peas

cup chopped red cabbage

tablespoon unsalted butter

2 large eggs (beaten)

2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce, or to taste

Black pepper, to taste

Method

In a large wok or skillet, heat 2 tablespoons oil, add carrots and whites of the green onions. Cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes.

Add garlic and ginger and cook, stirring about 1 minute.

Add rice, peas, red cabbage and mix.

Push to the side, melt butter and add beaten eggs, scrambling on one side of the pan.

When eggs are mostly cooked, start to add into rice mixture.

Add soy sauce, stirring until heated through.

Season with pepper and stir in the remaining green onions, or use to top.

Serve as a side or with a protein and additional veggie.

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Food For Thought with Kat | Vitamin victuals | Arts And Culture | reformer.com - Brattleboro Reformer

The findings from global brand-building agency Healthy Marketing Team (HMT), considered what is expected to influence consumer choices of food and health products in 2022. It identified categories such as: Food & Supplements, Sports Nutrition, Plant-based & Climate and Self-care.

HMT, which specialises in food and health, compiled the report was compiled using market research from a range of continents. It analysed new product offerings, and also incorporated observations from food and supplement organisations worldwide.

Peter Wennstrm, founder of HMT, says: The purpose of our analysis is to draw the industrys attention to this shift from physical health to mental health which is THE Gamechanger for anyone working with food & health products and services.

It means that brand and product developers must understand how to connect to todays consumers not only with physical benefits and rational claims but also with emotional benefits. The value chain starts in the mind of the consumer more so now than ever before.

HMT found that in Food & Supplements there is movement away from a single hero ingredient to the synergistic power of nutrients the combined power of ingredients working together as well as increasing use of microbiome therapeutics for mental wellbeing. It also discovered the emergence of plant-based fine dining with an aim of helping people feel good through a vegourmet experience.

In terms of climate, the report highlighted that the term eco-anxiety is now widely used to describe acute anxiety linked to climate change. It showed an opportunity for brands to create a safe space where even the smallest of actions count and gives people the chance to take pride in their eco- consciousness.

Looking at sports nutrition, HMT discovered a shift away from physical strength and concentration on sharp focus and mental balance.

NutraIngredients has previously reported on similar suggestions that an athletes mental health is just as important as their physical state, and how nutrition has a role to play in improving it.

The HMT research highlighted innovative ingredients that boost mental health and improve performance, including microbiome modulators and Cannabinoid (CBD), were a key focus.

The its okay not to be okay message was highlighted in self-care, revealing an opportunity for products that aim to address everyday anxiety, stress and mood swings.

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Mental health is the top trend affecting supplement choices - NutraIngredients.com

A Texas A&M University research team working with two amino acids, arginine and methionine, and the metabolite creatine in pigs is making great strides to improve the overall litter weight and health of individual babies.

This research, they believe, also has implications for human fetal development.

The team, with lead Fuller Bazer, Regents Fellow, Distinguished University Professor, Presidential Impact Fellow and holder of the O.D. Butler Chair in Animal Science, was recently granted a U.S. Department of AgricultureNational Institute of Food and Agriculturegrant for $650,000.

This new grant builds on nearly 30 years of research the team has conducted, Bazer said. The project specifically aims to combine the areas of nutrition and reproduction to develop strategies to increase reproductive success in livestock enterprises.

The team consists of Bazer and Guoyao Wu, distinguished professor and Texas A&M AgriLife ResearchSenior Faculty Fellow, both in the Texas A&MDepartment of Animal Science,College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. Joining them are Greg Johnson,professor, and Heewon Seo, research assistant professor, both in the Veterinary Integrative Biosciences,College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences.

We believe by supplementing diets with specific amino acids, such as arginine, and creatine a very doable practical approach for producers we can deliver those nutrients that we know are very critical for growth and development of the embryo and fetus during the course of gestation, Bazer said. This is going to give the producer more offspring and healthier offspring, and of course, thats really the bottom line in terms of taking them to market thats the profitability margin that farmers and ranchers are looking for.

While arginine was traditionally considered a nonessential amino acid because it is produced in the body, Wu said the teams work has shown that the amount of arginine produced in a pigs body is insufficient under certain physiological conditions, such as pregnancy, and thus it is a conditionally essential amino acid.

The work we do is basic research nutrition and reproduction interaction, Bazer said. Arginine enhances embryonic and fetal growth and survival.

Arginine plays a key role in pregnancy. First, arginine gets converted in the body to nitric oxide, which, similar to nitroglycerin in humans with heart problems, stimulates blood vessel growth and promotes dilation of the blood vessels. This allows more blood with its key nutrients to be delivered to the uterus, which supports fetal-placental growth and development throughout pregnancy.

So, you get a better blood flow to the reproductive tract, Bazer said.

Arginine also gets converted to another set of compounds, called polyamines, which are involved in many cellular functions critical for gene expression as well as DNA and protein synthesis. Methionine is required for converting arginine into polyamines in pigs.

Furthermore, arginine gives rise to creatine, which Bazer and his partners believe can help overcome the birth of runt piglets and improve neurological functions in piglets. Creatine also promotes skeletal muscle development, so the offspring are expected to be physically stronger and bigger.

In addition to lead researcher Fuller Bazer, teams members include Guoyao Wu, distinguished professor and Texas A&M AgriLife Research Senior Faculty Fellow, along with Heewon Seo, research assistant professor, and Greg Johnson, professor, both in the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.

Laura McKenzie/Texas A&M AgriLife Communications

Bazer said their research is determining whether creatine influences the amount and type of skeletal muscle in pigs. Another question is whether supplementing sows feed increases the weight and muscle mass of piglets, which is important for their survival and meat and meat products that they will yield.

We think the creatine can help overcome the birth of runt piglets, he said. If producers can save them, thats worth a lot of money. It takes about seven piglets to break even if you can save two or three runt piglets per litter, they are worth about $50 per piglet.

While increasing the amount of muscle is the primary function, the creatine supplementation will also help with the piglets neurological function. This would help overcome or prevent the adverse effects of low oxygen during and immediately after birth.

As much as 10% of piglets are killed when the mother lies down on them because the piglets are not alert enough to get out of the way, he said.

By supplementing the diet with arginine, something producers can do by just changing their feed formulation, we believe they will see a difference in the reproductive outcomes, Bazer said.

The end goal is to take this basic research to the marketplace by developing supplements for diets a very doable and practical approach, he said.

In the marketplace, he said, the research has much greater implications. Once this information is worked out with domestic animals particularly pigs but also cattle, sheep and goats the information could be used for biomedical and medical sciences.

We know small-for-date babies exist in human pregnancies, especially where you have adolescent girls getting pregnant, he said. But, in general, theres always an interest in trying to make sure babies grow at the proper rate so theyre not small and have to go in an incubator to survive.

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Researchers Use Arginine, Creatine Supplementation To Boost Pig Birth Weight - Texas A&M University Today

The law defines dietary supplements in part as products taken by mouth that contain a "dietary ingredient." Dietary ingredients include vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and herbs or botanicals, as well as other substances that can be used to supplement the diet.

Dietary supplements come in many forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, energy bars, and liquids. These products are available in stores throughout the United States, as well as on the Internet. They are labeled as dietary supplements and include among others

People use dietary supplements for a wide assortment of reasons. Some seek to compensate for diets, medical conditions, or eating habits that limit the intake of essential vitamins and nutrients. Other people look to them to boost energy or to get a good night's sleep. Postmenopausal women consider using them to counter a sudden drop in estrogen levels.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests that you consult with a health care professional before using any dietary supplement. Many supplements contain ingredients that have strong biological effects, and such products may not be safe in all people.

If you have certain health conditions and take these products, you may be putting yourself at risk. Your health care professional can discuss with you whether it is safe for you to take a particular product and whether the product is appropriate for your needs. Here is some general advice:

You should know the following if you are considering using a dietary supplement.

Many dietary supplements have clean safety histories. For example, millions of Americans responsibly consume multi-vitamins and experience no ill effects.

Some dietary supplements have been shown to be beneficial for certain health conditions. For example, the use of folic acid supplements by women of childbearing age who may become pregnant reduces the risk of some birth defects.

Another example is the crystalline form of vitamin B12, which is beneficial in people over age 50 who often have a reduced ability to absorb naturally occurring vitamin B12. But further study is needed for some other dietary supplements.

Some supplements have had to be recalled because of proven or potential harmful effects. Reasons for these recalls include

In addition, unscrupulous manufacturers have tried to sell bogus products that should not be on the market at all.

Before taking a dietary supplement, make sure that the supplement is safe for you and appropriate for the intended purpose.

Adverse effects with dietary supplements should be reported to FDA as soon as possible. If you experience such an adverse effect, contact or see your health care professional immediately. Both of you are then encouraged to report this problem to FDA. For information on how to do this, go to https://www.fda.gov/food/dietary-supplements/how-report-problem-dietary-supplements.

Adverse effects can also be reported to the product's manufacturer or distributor through the address or phone number listed on the product's label. Dietary supplement firms are required to forward reports they receive about serious adverse effects to FDA within 15 days.

For a general, nonserious complaint or concern about dietary supplements, contact your local FDA Consumer Complaint Coordinator.

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07/15/2015

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FDA 101: Dietary Supplements | FDA

A vast majority of COVID-19 patients experience fatigue, extreme tiredness and symptoms that persist beyond the active phase of the disease. This condition is called post-COVID syndrome. The mechanisms by which the virus causes prolonged illness are still unclear. The aim of this review is to gather information regarding post-COVID syndrome so as to highlight its etiological basis and the nutritional regimes and supplements that can mitigate, alleviate or relieve the associated chronic fatigue, gastrointestinal disorders and continuing inflammatory reactions. Naturally-occurring food supplements, such as acetyl L-carnitine, hydroxytyrosol and vitamins B, C and D hold significant promise in the management of post-COVID syndrome. In this pilot observational study, we evaluated the effect of a food supplement containing hydroxytyrosol, acetyl L-carnitine and vitamins B, C and D in improving perceived fatigue in patients who recovered from COVID-19 but had post-COVID syndrome characterized by chronic fatigue. The results suggest that the food supplement could proceed to clinical trials of its efficacy in aiding the recovery of patients with long COVID.

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Proposal of a food supplement for the management of post ...

Calcium phosphate is a compound that contains both calcium and phosphorus. It is a naturally occurring mineral that is a large component of bones and teeth. The compound has a variety of roles in the body, and some people may benefit from supplementation. However, too much calcium phosphate can also cause some health risks.

Both calcium and phosphorus are minerals that the body requires to perform a range of essential functions. Namely, they both play important roles in keeping bones strong and healthy. Many people get sufficient calcium and phosphorus from their diet. In some cases of deficiency, people may consider supplements. However, they should discuss this with their doctor, as while they can provide health benefits, they may also cause some side effects.

This article discusses the potential benefits and risks of calcium phosphate and whether a person should consider taking them.

Calcium phosphate, also known as tricalcium phosphate, is a type of mineral. It is a compound containing calcium and phosphorus, or phosphoric acid.

It is available as an option for calcium supplements, along with calcium carbonate and calcium citrate. There are also many different types of calcium phosphate. The largest calcium phosphate source in the body exists as hydroxyapatite (HAP), which is an important structural component of bones and teeth.

Calcium is also present in the circulatory system and tissues, while phosphorus is also an important component of DNA and protein. These minerals have essential roles in bone, muscle, blood, and nerve health.

Calcium phosphate also has many uses outside the body, as it is a component in many products, including:

A person may benefit from calcium phosphate supplementation, particularly if they are experiencing a deficiency in these minerals. The recommended daily intake of calcium is about 1,000 milligrams (mg) and roughly 1,250 mg for phosphorus.

As such, supplementation may be useful for people who have certain health conditions, including:

Supplementation may also be useful for certain people that require additional calcium. This may include postmenopausal people and those with dietary restrictions. Individuals experiencing menopause may have weaker bones due to a decrease in the production of the hormone estrogen. Additionally, people who are lactose intolerant or avoid dairy products may be at a higher risk of being calcium deficient.

Calcium phosphate supplementation may also help with other conditions. A 2018 literature review notes that supplements could decrease total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol concentration. High levels of these cholesterols may contribute to health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and hypertension. The review also adds that the supplements may help with gut health.

Calcium phosphate supplementation may also carry some risk. Potential side effects can include:

Disturbances in calcium and phosphate balance can affect many parts of the body. As many people may use calcium phosphate to supplement their calcium intake, they may take too much and develop hypercalcemia. This excessive amount of calcium can result in several complications, which people may refer to as:

While more research is necessary, some evidence also notes that high calcium and phosphate intake may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and prostate cancer.

Additionally, calcium supplements may interact with certain medications. This can diminish the effect of the medication and lead to unwanted side effects. These medications may include:

As with any supplement, it is highly advisable for a person to discuss it with their doctor. A medical professional will be able to suggest the suitability of calcium supplements and may also provide alternative options. This is particularly important if a person is taking certain medications or at a higher risk of complications, such as kidney stones.

A person should take the calcium phosphate supplement as the packaging or their pharmacist directs. Different types of calcium supplements are available, so people should ensure they take the correct type.

A person typically takes calcium phosphate by mouth and it is available in liquid, chewable tablet, and capsule forms. A person should not exceed the daily dose recommended by the manufacturer and should carefully measure the correct dose. Calcium supplements absorb better when taken in smaller quantities of 500 mg or less. Therefore, people may divide their dose and space it throughout the day

Calcium supplements also absorb better with food. Therefore, a person may consider taking the supplement with a meal. Additionally, vitamin D can help calcium absorb better in the gut. As such, people may want to include dietary sources or a calcium phosphate supplement that already contains vitamin D.

If a person is also taking an iron supplement, it is advisable to take the calcium supplement 2 hours before or 2 hours after to maximize absorption.

People can obtain sufficient amounts of calcium from dietary sources. Foods rich in calcium include:

Click here to learn more about calcium-rich vegan foods.

Calcium phosphate is a compound containing calcium and phosphorus. It is naturally present in the body, and some people may take it as a supplement to increase their calcium intake. Both calcium and phosphorus have a wide variety of functions in the body, including aiding in blood clotting, muscle function, bone regeneration, and cell signaling.

Supplements may benefit a person who has a health condition that requires extra calcium, including hypocalcemia, osteoporosis, and vitamin D deficiency. However, it is also possible for a person to experience side effects and complications from having too much calcium. This can include gastrointestinal distress, bone pain, and kidney problems.

As with any supplement, it is advisable for a person to consult their doctor. They can discuss whether supplements are suitable and suggest dietary sources of calcium, such as dairy products, green leafy vegetables, and fortified foods.

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Calcium phosphate: What is it and what are the risks? - Medical News Today

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I appreciated your recent article Ask Science (GT, 1/5) explaining the futility of taking brain supplements to increase cognitive performance. I would love GT to do another piece examining vitamin and mineral supplements. Do people really need to take these? Although a majority of Americans use supplements, and spend about $12 billion a year on them, unless a specific supplement is prescribed for you by your M.D. (such as a folic acid for pregnant women or vitamin D for those that get no sun exposure), in almost all cases taking vitamins or minerals provide no health benefits and is a waste of money. If a person eats a well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables there is no need to take supplements. Whole foods offer greater nutrition, essential fiber and protective substances that vitamins lack. Enjoy life: buy good food, not vitamins.

R. E. Rhodes

Santa Cruz

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Letter to the Editor: Good Food, No Vitamins - Good Times Weekly

Demand for halal certified nutraceuticals, from vitamins to health supplements, has surged since the COVID-19 pandemic spread around the planet, with consumers wanting to bolster their immune systems.

The global market for halal nutraceutical products is set to double over the next 10 years, according to recent research. A report from Dubai-based Future Market Insights, published last July, predicted sales of these products would increase from $58 billion in 2021 to $116 billion by 2031. The report points to the adoption of uniform certification for halal products as a driving force in the market.

The report said sales would be boosted by an increasing global and prosperous Muslim population, forecast to top 2.2 billion. It added that growing awareness about the quality of halal ingredients, and more lifestyle-linked health disorders (such as obesity and diabetes) will also expand sales. Islamic Services of America, a certification body, described the industry as booming. A focus on health care and healthy lifestyles is becoming a trend amongmillennials, a key Muslim consumer demographic, the report said.

Demand for halal certification requests for vitamins and supplements has accelerated since the COVID-19 pandemic began, Shoeeb Riaz, operations director at The Halal Trust, an organisation which certifies products and services, based in Birmingham, UK, told Salaam Gateway.

Most manufacturers of supplements have seen business double, or triple-digit growth, he said, adding that the Muslim consumer in the UK is adapting a similar cultural outlook for consumer behaviour as non-Muslim counterparts around wellbeing.

The market, Riaz said, is looking at a bumper couple of years with people understanding the link between vitamin deficiency and disease. He added: Muslim community middle classes are increasing [in size and wealth] and they have the option to go to the health store to buy supplements where historically they didnt have sufficient income levels.

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, scientists and medical experts have indicated that taking vitamin D has helped people avoid suffering the worst effects of the virus with its immunity strengthening benefits advice which has impacted the market greatly, a Future Insights spokesperson told Salaam Gateway. Clinical recommendations have played a key role in impacting consumer preferences, he said.

In the UK, Riaz said Muslim consumers are increasingly disconnected from their historic roots where traditionally herbal remedies would have been relied on. Thus many are turning to products you would find in a high street health shop, such as high dose Vitamin D recommended to fight off COVID-19. Halal lines are likely to be more attractive to such consumers.

Social media promotions will also boost growth in halal nutraceuticals, the Future Insights spokesman told Salaam Gateway. Customer reviews are an important aspect that helps to advertise products by including authentic feedback from the target demographic, he said.

In terms of country sales, Future Market Insights highlights the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as a potentially strong market. Indeed, it was the country anticipated to have the largest halal nutraceutical market over the forecast period. Business statistics service Statista places the countrys overall national vitamins and supplements market at a value of $59 million currently predicted to rise with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.8% by 2025. Indonesia is also expected to be a major market given decree number 748 issued by the countrys ministry of religious affairs in July 2021 that says health supplements must be labelled halal certified or non-halal when sold in the country with a 277 million population. This rule will become mandatory by 2026 at the latest.

Indonesian market players are scurrying to get halal certification for the products, which is boosting market demand, noted the FI report. The law defines food supplements as containing one or more ingredients in the form of vitamins, minerals, amino acids and/or other non-plant materials (fatty acids, probiotics, prebiotics, enzymes, isolates, metabolites, synthetic compounds) which can be combined with plants.

As for the West, demand for halal nutraceutical products will remain stagnant across the US, Germany, the UK and other European countries, according to Future Insights researchers. They said the high production costs of halal dietary supplements and lack of acceptance or awareness of halal standards by non-Muslims in European countries might restrict the growth within the market. This included high costs for halal certification in Europe and the USA, given these jurisdictions stringent rules for compliance with halal certification methods. This has meant producing halal nutraceuticalshas become an intricate task for manufacturers, forcing them to develop technological advancements, increasing the cost of production.

Of course, as usual, technical innovations have helped. The development of non-gelatine gummies has helped grow the halal vitamin market, the Future Insights spokesman told Salaam Gateway. Examples of such halal vitamin gummies include products made by UK-based Chewwies, and US-based Flamingo Supplements and Noor Vitamins.

A surge in chronic disease eased by vitamin supplements, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes, in developed economies such as North America and Europe has fuelled demand for gummy vitamins, he added.

Other innovators have been targeting this increasingly important halal segment. In 2021, Malaysias Duopharma expanded its halal nutraceuticals offerings, which have had strong sales during the pandemic. The company rebranded its Vitamin C tablets brand Flavettes, emphasising attributes for skin. The company is planning to exand its export markets to the Philippines and Indonesia in the coming years, while Thailand and Vietnam are considered potential markets.

In 2020, UAE-based Blue Angel Farm announced the launch of an Emirates Authority for Standardization and Metrology (ESMA) approved halal multi-vitamin and mineral named Essentials, developed to target unmet vitamin and mineral needs of Muslim women. For example, some Henry Ford Health System research has indicated Muslim women in the USA may attain lower than average levels of vitamin D in Michigan state, USA, if their clothing reduces exposure to sunlight.

And in 2021, Australia-based Swisse launched halal-certified Swisse Ultivite E-Senital multivitamins in Singapore. With this new launch, the company aims to expand its portfolio of halal-certified products and increase its footprint in Muslim majority markets. It said the product is packed with essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and herbs [and] supports energy level and mental performance and a healthy immune system. The subsidiary of the Hong Kong-listed H&H Group will be hoping the global halal nutraceutical market will continue to display such vigour.

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Halal health supplements predicted to have bumper growth as demand spikes - Salaam Gateway

In the winter months, its even harder to fight off infections, and with the added pressure of Covid-19, its more important than ever to boost the body's immune system.

Seasonal factors such as a lack of sun, less time spent outdoors and fewer options for fresh produce can cause vitamin levels to plummet.

Nutritional experts at fitness training specialist OriGym have revealed the six vitamins you need in winter to beat the blues and how to incorporate them into day-to-day living:

The body produces vitamin D in response to sun exposure, but because the winter sun is not strong enough for the body to make vitamin D, most people will need to supplement it during the colder months.

Its one of the best vitamins to boost the immune system as it helps facilitate normal immune system function and it provides improved resistance against certain diseases.

Vitamin D is mainly produced in your skin in response to sunlight, but its also readily available in a supplementary form and found in some foods too, including:

Liver

Red meats

Oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines

Egg yolks

Cheese

Tuna

Vitamin C provides a major boost to the immune system during winter, helping the body fight against cold and flu. It also helps to alleviate fatigue, detox the body, nourish the skin and enhance wound healing during the season.

As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C can help strengthen the body's natural defences. One way it does this is by encouraging the production of white blood cells known as phagocytes and lymphocytes which help protect the body against infection.

Our bodies dont produce it naturally, but vitamin C is best absorbed in natural sources or supplementary form and can be found in a range of different foods like:

Oranges

Strawberries

Broccoli

Sprouts

Potatoes

Blackcurrants

Peppers

This mineral is needed by the body to make proteins and DNA, the genetic material in all cells.

Zinc also helps the immune system fight off invading viruses and bacteria, and its often used in the battle against the common cold.

To ensure that you get enough zinc to help keep your immune system strong, here are some zinc-rich foods you should consider incorporating into a daily diet:

Shellfish

Legumes, such as lentils, chickpeas, and beans

Seeds

Almonds

Peanuts

Milk

Cheese

Eggs

Red meat

Dark chocolate

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is another winter staple and one of the best vitamins for the immune system that you need to keep you feeling healthy and free of colds and flu.

As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin E plays a vital role in helping the body fight off infections. It helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are compounds formed when the body converts food into energy. Its crucial to get enough of it during the cold, winter months. Luckily, vitamin E is found in a range of foods, including:

This nutrient is especially needed for efficient immune cell proliferation which is needed to fight infection. In general, iron deficiency could cause the immune system to weaken and anaemia to develop, which is a decrease in the number of red blood cells present in blood.

Iron helps carry oxygen to cells, so, if youre suffering from anaemia, not only will you feel lethargic and fatigued due to less oxygen reaching every part of your body, but your immune system is going to take a hit and be weakened too.

Especially in winter, its worth taking iron supplements or increasing your intake of iron-rich foods such as:

Red meats

Chicken

Liver

Beans, such as chickpeas, red kidney beans, and edamame

Nuts

Oysters

Mussels

Turkey

Pumpkin seeds

Although known for keeping bones and teeth strong, calcium is also one of the best winter vitamins to boost the immune system.

The mineral plays a number of roles within the body, it plays a role in helping blood to clot, muscles to contract and regulates normal heart rhythms and nerve functions. Not only does calcium help to maintain strong teeth and bones, but its also necessary for muscles to move and for nerves to carry messages from the brain to every other body part.

Calcium also plays a central role in the activation of cells in the immune system and controls whether immune cells can use the nutrients they need to fuel their multiplication for fighting off foreign bodies, like germs, viruses, or bacteria. Some foods that are are rich in calcium that you can easily add to your diet include:

Milk

Cheese

Yoghurt

Sardines

Salmon

Almonds

Whey protein

Rhubarb

Seeds

Tofu

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Essential vitamins needed to stay well this winter - and foods that contain them - Wales Online