Category Archives: Food Supplements

Fiber is an essential carbohydrate that our bodies can't break down. It passes through our system undigested, which helps our body regulate how it uses sugar and preserves digestion function. Unfortunately, most people don't get enough of it. It's estimated that only 5% of people consume the recommended amount of fiber daily. Women should try to eat at least 21 to 25 grams of fiber a day, while men should aim for 30 to 38 grams a day.

Fiber supplements help regulate digestion, prevent constipation and manage glucose and cholesterol levels. But before we jump into the picks for the best fiber supplements, there's an important distinction that you need to know.

There are two types of fiber -- soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and helps lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Insoluble fiber is the type that helps move food through your digestive system.

Benefiber Original is wheat dextrin, a byproduct of milling wheat. It takes our spot as the best budget fiber supplement thanks to its low cost and versatility. Note that the low price means that this fiber supplement has less fiber per serving than other brands. Depending on your goal dosage per serving, this is something to consider.

Benefiber only has soluble fiber, which makes it a great option for people who want to use a fiber supplement to manage their blood sugar. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and is good for both diarrhea and constipation, while insoluble fiber helps with constipation. This fiber supplement is tasteless and dissolves easily in cold and hot liquids. Or you can add it to food while you cook -- it won't thicken or add a flavor.

Benefiber is also available in convenient on-the-go packets that offer a single serving of fiber supplement. Not all brands offer this; it's a great perk for people who want to take their fiber supplement with lunch.

Cost: $11.82 for 8.7-ounce container (62 servings)

Fiber per serving: 3 grams of soluble fiber per 2 teaspoons.

Benefiber Original's best features:

Things to consider:

Vitafusion Fiber Well Fit Gummies is one of the best gummy fiber supplements you can get for children or people who have trouble swallowing pills. These gummies are sugar-free and come in natural berry, peach and strawberry flavors. User reviews rave about the taste and how easy these gummies are to chew. They also praise the effectiveness of this product.

With each serving, you also get essential B vitamins, folic acid and biotin. Many fiber supplements don't have other vitamins or minerals included.

Cost: $9.83 for 90 gummies

Fiber per serving: 5 grams of soluble fiber per two gummies

Vitafusion Fiber Well Fit Gummies' best features:

Things to consider:

If you're looking for a food-source fiber supplement, consider Spectrum Essentials Organic Ground Chia Seeds. These ground chia seeds are a whole food form of fiber. They're a little less versatile than other fiber supplements, as they have a nutty taste and don't dissolve into drinks. So you'll always know the chia seeds are there, but if you like the taste, they can give water, smoothies or food a boost of fiber.

Chia seeds are full of fiber and offer a great way to aid digestion. As a bonus, chia seeds also have omega-3 fatty acids, which have been linked to decreasing the risk of heart attacks or strokes.

Cost: $11 for 10-ounce pack

Fiber per serving: 4 grams of dietary fiber per 2 tablespoons

Spectrum Essentials Organic Ground Chia Seeds' best features:

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Metamucil sugar-free fiber powder is a natural psyllium husk powder four-in-one fiber supplement that's meant to help digestive health, control appetite and lower cholesterol and sugar levels. A review of research supports the claims that psyllium husk has cardiovascular, cholesterol and blood sugar benefits.

You can choose from either unflavored, berry or orange powders. Note that reviews suggest that the strong orange flavor can be polarizing -- you either like it or you don't. However, other users say that Metamucil is smooth and easier to drink than other brands, allowing you to add it to water, juice or smoothies without issue.

Cost: $29 for a 2.3-pound container

Serving size: 6 grams of soluble fiber per 2 teaspoons

Metamucil Sugar-Free Powder's best features:

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Garden of Life Organic Fiber Supplement contains no added sugars. It's made from five natural ingredients, including acacia fiber, organic orange peel, organic baobab fruit, apple peel and cranberry seed. Each serving delivers 5 grams of prebiotic fiber.

This fiber supplement includes both soluble and insoluble fiber, making it one of the best fiber supplements for constipation. Garden of Life is a certified B corporation. This means that all of its products produced comply with social and environmental standards.

You can choose from unflavored powder or citrus. If you want to mix in the powder with drinks or food, we recommend the unflavored version.

Cost: $19.97 for a 10-serving container

Fiber per serving: 5 grams of insoluble fiber and 4 grams of soluble fiber per tablespoon.

Garden of Life Organic Fiber Supplement best features:

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If you're looking for a budget-friendly fiber supplement that includes both soluble and insoluble fiber, consider NOW supplements psyllium husk powder. It's a good addition to your diet if you struggle with constipation. You can bake it into food or add it to your daily smoothie.

This fiber supplement has the highest fiber concentration on the list, with seven grams of dietary fiber, one gram of insoluble fiber and six grams of soluble fiber. You also get eight percent of the recommended daily value of iron for the day.

Cost: $11 for a 12-ounce container

Fiber per serving: 7 grams of dietary fiber, 6 grams of soluble fiber and 1 gram of insoluble fiber

NOW Supplements Psyllium Husk Powder's best features:

Things to consider:

When choosing the best fiber supplements for this list, we considered the price, type of fiber supplement and ingredients. Additionally, as the supplement industry isn't well regulated by the FDA, we relied on additional certifications that vouch for the quality and purity of products. We did not test these fiber supplements in-house.

There are a lot of fiber supplements on the market, all varying by price, type and form. When you start your search, keep these key factors in mind:

Fiber is an essential carbohydrate that our bodies use to manage the body's sugars, hunger and digestion. Our bodies can't break down fiber, so it passes through our digestive systems undigested. This adds weight and softens stool, making it easier to pass.

Fiber-dense foods:

Despite fiber being present in so many foods, many people don't get enough of itfrom their diet. That's where fiber supplements come in.

How often should you take fiber supplements?

Fiber supplements are generally considered safe for everyday use. But you should only take them if you're not getting enough fiber from your food.

There are side effects to fiber supplements that shouldn't be ignored, however. Your fiber supplement can cause constipation if you take too much too quickly or if you aren't drinking enough water. When you start your fiber supplements, it's best to start slowly and at a lower dose, then work your way up.

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as health or medical advice. Always consult a physician or other qualified health provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health objectives.

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6 Best Fiber Supplements That Will Keep Your Gut Happy - CNET

For some, taking a multivitamin is a long-instated habit implemented as part of an everyday health routine, a handy little pill designed to deliver a plethora of vitamins and nutrients your body may be lacking. And while this may be an act of good measure or a result of years of conditioning (remember Flintstones vitamins?), it begs the question: Do you actually need to take a multivitamin? Well, it seems the answer it not so cut and dry as theres a hefty amount of opinions out there about whether or not you actually need these magical pills.

To start, Dr. Erin Barrett explains that your body makes many of the things it needs to carry out its functions, but there are some things that our bodies just cant make, like vitamins, minerals, omega-3s and some amino acids which are the building blocks of protein. These nutrients are considered essential because our bodies need them to survive, but also because our bodies cant make them, which means we must somehow work them into our diet.

Despite your diet and efforts to eat healthy, Barrett shares that up to 90% of people aren't getting what they need from the food they eat. This explains why so many people rely on supplements such as multivitamins to give their body nutrients. But in some cases its unnecessary for an individual to take a multivitamin. Registered dietitian Jean Hanks shares that those with no significant dietary restrictions who eat a varied healthy diet do not need to take a multivitamin as they are likely properly nourishing their bodies with food.

But how do you know if you should be taking a multivitamin? Ahead, a few experts help unpack this hot topic once and for all.

Multivitamins serve as a dietary supplement containing water-soluble vitamins (all eight B vitamins and C), fat-soluble vitamins (A, D , E, K), and minerals (iron, zinc, calcium, selenium, copper, manganese, chromium, iodine, potassium, molybdenum and magnesium). You can often find them in the form of tablets, capsules, powders, and liquids. Nutritionist Melissa Morris likes to think of a multivitamin as an extra insurance policy. While it should not replace a healthy diet, it can be a supplement to a healthy diet, she adds, A multivitamin can help you get the nutrients that might be missing from your foods or beverages.

Those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, and those who avoid dairy might need the assistance of a multivitamin supplement to help ensure they are getting enough iron, B12 and vitamin D. But, taking a specific supplement to address those targeted concerns or deficiencies would be more productive than taking a multivitamin, shares Hank, as you man not need everything in a catch-all pill.

For example, as you age, your body may not absorb vitamins and minerals as well, Morris shares, so a multivitamin may be essential at this point (as instructed by a medical professional of course). A multivitamin is also recommended by doctors for women before they get pregnant and during their pregnancy to ensure theyre getting enough nutrients.

Also, if your diet is less than nutrient-rich (think full of processed, refined, and sugar-filled foods), you may be lacking essential nutrients as well. So, a multivitamin could ensure youre properly fueling your body and getting all of the vitamins you need.

To really get to the bottom of whether youre the right candidate for a multivitamin, its best to consult with your doctor. They will be able to check the amount of certain nutrients in your blood. While there really are no tell-tale symptoms of whether or not your body is in serious need of vitamins and minerals, feeling more fatigued than normal is often a key indicator.

If you look down the vitamin aisle in any drug store, youll notice the wide variety of supplements you can choose from. While the more aesthetically pleasing or more popular ones may capture your attention, make sure youre selecting a brand that is third-party tested. This will ensure that your product actually is made of whats listed on the label, and not contaminated with possible harmful substances.

Hanks shares that its a good idea to avoid gummy versions of vitamins, as these tend to have added sugars and extra ingredients like sodium and dyes that are not necessary. Also, multivitamins with any herbs or extracts should be avoided unless cleared with a doctor, as these are not as well researched. Looking for a USP verification (meaning that a supplement is pure and actually contains what the bottle says), is also important when taking a multivitamin. Hanks says you should also steer clear of megadoses of vitamins (over 100% of the RDA) as there is no benefit to overdoing it with the vitamins, and in some cases, too much of a nutrient can be harmful.

Well, this depends. Hanks says that she follows the food first approach to health. With some exceptions, humans can get all of the vitamins and minerals they need from food alone, she shares. Taking a multivitamin can cover the bases and generally wont be harmful, its really not necessary if youre intentional about following a diet that is varied and full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and animal products. Multivitamins should not be used in place of consuming foods like fruits and vegetables, because with these foods comes fiber, water and antioxidants that pills obviously do not have, Hanks says.

Theres been a handful of studies on whether or not taking a daily multivitamin provides benefits to your body and protects your health. But, despite claims that multivitamins are good for your health, they aren't entirely backed by research. Hanks says this is due to the supplement industry doing a great job at marketing the multivitamin. I think consumers are swayed by the many health benefits that these products supposedly provide, and taking a pill that covers all the bases for many people is a lot easier than putting effort into eating a balanced diet. So while there isn't enough significant research on multivitamins, many doctors prescribe multivitamins or other supplements to patients instead of educating them about diet.

While there is no real harm in taking multivitamins, and they may provide potential benefits for your health, none of these benefits are certain yet. As mentioned above, there are a specific group of people that would benefit from taking a daily multivitamin. But, for those who dont have any significant dietary restrictions or have health issues that cause depletion of any essential nutrients, focusing on meeting nutritional needs with the food you are eating is ideal.

Your doctor or dietitian may recommend a supplement regimen tailored to any specific nutrients you are lacking which may be more helpful than a generic multivitamin that contains extra nutrients you may not need. With any sort of supplement youre taking, its important to speak with your doctor as they will be able to recommend a multivitamin that works best for you.

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Do You Actually Need To Take A Multivitamin? The Answer May Surprise You - The Zoe Report

| 20 September 2022 | By George Paraskevakos, MBA | This article discusses current diverging regulations for probiotics as ingredients in foods and dietary supplements and the trends and translational science that have demonstrated probiotic benefits. It emphasizes how aligning a global probiotic harmonized regulatory framework can help navigate the confusion around the regulations to ensure global consumer access to beneficial products of quality.Keywords Codex, harmonization, regulations, probiotics, probiotic foods, supplementsIntroductionBackground Probiotics are one of the more intensely researched dietary ingredient categories, and their benefits have been supported in translational science. However, current diverging global regulations present challenges to ensuring consumer access to safe probiotic products of quality, highlighting the need for clear, harmonized regulations and claims to facilitate delivery of foods and dietary supplements with probiotics to consumers worldwide.In 2001 and 2002, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and World Health Organization (WHO) published two joint reports with guidelines and recommendations for governments around the globe for the evaluation of the safety and nutritional aspects of probiotics.1 These recommendations are widely respected and have been extremely helpful to governments, shaping regulations for probiotics internationally. The regulations set a baseline for the probiotic industry but have been interpreted independently, creating gaps as governments developed different requirements at the national levels.These guidelines and the definition shaped the future trajectory of the industry and the global probiotics market is now dynamic and diverse. Continued growth, coupled with increasing consumer demand over the years, offers many opportunities for food, beverage, and dietary supplement organizations. The guidelines and FAO-WHO definition have resulted in a complex mosaic of diverse global regulatory frameworks, which presents challenges when commercializing probiotic products but may also be seen as opportunities.Current landscapeThe global probiotics market continues its upward ascent. A 2021 report noted that the total probiotic market was worth more than US$48 billion (Figure 1).2 The market grew 8% globally from 2020 to 2021, supported by the research and science tying probiotics to gastrointestinal-related issues and immune support, coupled with an increasing public demand for products for health promotion. Probiotics offer many opportunities both in food, beverage, and dietary supplement applications.Figure 1. Global retail value of probiotic supplements2Source: Euromonitor InternationalDuring the past 2 years, while facing the COVID-19 pandemic, consumers were looking to minimize vulnerability to disease and illness, with an increased focus on disease prevention, health, and overall well-being. Optimizing health goals, including supporting immunity and digestive health and helping with allergies and weight management are a few areas consumers have been researching on-line. Figure 2 shows the proportion of consumers reporting that they have become more conscious about the relationship between a healthy lifestyle and preventing health issues. Another 2021 report, evaluating opportunities for probiotics in a postpandemic society, outlined how consumers seeking probiotics for prevention far outweighed interest in treating illness.3Figure 2. Consumer perceptions of probiotic supplements3Source: FMCG GurusThe ever-increasing e-commerce markets cannot be ignored when discussing market and consumer demand for probiotics. Higher demand, coupled with the more free-flowing virtual commerce space, bring a sense of urgency to the regulatory environment. Probiotic regulations are reasonably aligned within the none-commerce space, but when discussing e-commerce, regulatory oversight is evident. The EU is a good example of this. No probiotic claims are allowed on the food supplements on store shelves, but more than US$120 million of probiotic products still enter the EU via e-commerce platforms, and a majority of these products have claims on the package (Figure 3).4Figure 3. e-Commerce market size for probiotic supplements4Source: Lumina IntelligenceIt is important to also outline the largest global dietary supplement markets. The US leads, the way followed by China and Italy (Figure 4). At its current 11% year-on-year growth rates, China will be making significant gains as a global player. APAC as a region continues to grow across all probiotic segments and represents more than 55% of the global probiotic category.2Figure 4. Global market size of probiotic supplements2Source: Euromonitor International, for IPAWhat about the science?Probiotics have become one of the most researched supplements both by scientists and by online consumers. Probiotics are recognized as having strong supporting evidence amongst the large amount of ingredient supplements available to consumers.5 Furthermore, an online PubMed search reveals over 38,000 publications as of July 2022 (Figure 5). There is a significant amount of scientific research into the crucial role of probiotics and their beneficial effects on a variety of indications. In addition to classic indications, such as gastrointestinal and immune health, other areas addressed include the gut-brain axis, metabolic syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and atopic dermatitis. Dronkers and colleagues have reported more than 1,600 human clinical trials from two databases they reviewed and they are now analyzing more than 700 indications noted from those clinical trials.6Figure 5. Results of PubMed search for probiotics, July 2022Source: International Probiotics AssociationSystematic reviews combine results looking at all studies performed for a certain indication. These can be useful tools, giving overviews of the amount of research performed in a given area (Table).The amount of research is widespread in many areas of human health. The meta-analyses, reviews, and published articles highlight new targets in emerging areas of health that may be supported with probiotics in addition to the core historical applications. Zommitti et al published a detailed overview of select probiotic clinical studies and their specific effects on human health.17The published science for probiotic applications is abundant. Nonetheless, probiotics used in the researched applications have to meet minimum criteria before a micro-organism can be deemed probiotic. IPA18 and IPA EU19 have published comprehensive papers on the topic. Moreover, when using probiotics for specific conditions in humans, the products must have sufficient study with the specific strain and are required to be sufficiently researched for their intended use, as outlined by Sanders and colleagues.20 Global policy on probioticsThe FAO-WHO collaborationIn view of the growing popularity of probiotics and the lack of international consensus on the methodology to assess their efficacy and safety, the FAO and WHO began collaborating about 20 years ago to examine the scientific evidence on the functional and safety aspects of probiotics in food. In 2001, the two organizations convened an expert consultation on the health and nutritional properties of powder milk with live lactic acid bacteria in Cordoba, Argentina, and an expert working group was established in 2002 to develop guidelines for the evaluation of probiotics in food.1The FAO-WHO expert consultation evaluated available information on the functional and safety aspects of probiotics in powdered milks and examined the products dietary impact, properties, benefits, safety, nutritional features, adverse effects, and health claims, among other attributes. In addition, it identified priorities for evaluation of safety and nutritional aspects.The FAO-WHO working group followed up with a proposed methodology to evaluate probiotics and defined criteria for health claims for probiotics. As a result of their joint work, the FAO-WHO recommended adoption of the current widely used definition for probiotics: Live microorganisms which, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host. However, despite the outstanding work by FAO-WHO with expert recommendations, considerable work is still needed to reach global harmonization of probiotic regulations.Codex AlimentariusThe Codex Alimentarius standards and guidelines are the international reference point for food regulations and therefore, have the potential to help in the global harmonization of probiotic standards and regulations. There are Codex commodities standards for food categories, including probiotics, in areas such as fermented milk, food supplements, infant formula, and follow-up formula products. In addition, there are horizontal standards and guidelines for food hygiene, food additives, contaminants, labelling, and nutrition and health claims, that apply to food and dietary supplements in general. However, there are no specific provisions for probiotics. It is in this context that a proposal was presented for Codex guidelines for probiotics for use as an ingredient in foods and food supplements. Codex standards are not obligatory but are used by many national authorities as a starting point to build regulations within their own countries. In the spirit of harmonizing the definition for probiotics, the minimum requirements for their use, as well as specific labelling provisions for probiotics, the IPA proposed the Codex Guidelines for Probiotics initiative in 2017.21The proposal was submitted to the Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses (CCNFSDU). A decision on whether to begin developing Codex guidelines for probiotics is expected at the next CCNFSDU meeting in March 2023. Due to a very heavy workload, this committee is required to prioritize its work against specific criteria. These criteria are based on demonstrating impact on public health, food safety, and fair-trade practices, among other considerations. If the committee agrees to prioritize the new work proposal on probiotics, the proposal will be reviewed and the process of exchange and discussion toward harmonization will begin.Probiotics in foods and dietary supplementsAt the national level, we see divergent regulatory approaches for probiotics on aspects such as product classification, definition, permitted probiotic microorganisms, conditions of use and labelling requirements, use of health claims and substantiation requirements, and classification as market access administrative requirements. The same probiotic product can be regulated as a food in one market, a supplement in another, and may require drug type registration in yet another. This makes for an assortment of regulations that oblige industry to navigate regulatory differences to commercialize finished probiotic products globally.Product classification. In most countries, foods and dietary supplements with probiotics are classified under food law. These may also fall under certain categories that have their own specific regulations. Examples of these include, Foods with probiotics (Argentina), Food products with additions (Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Morocco), Foods with function claims (Japan), Health functional food (South Korea), or Dietary supplements (US and/or Canada) to name a few.However, there are some cases in which products containing probiotics are categorized as drugs. This may be because of the form in which they are presented, the microorganisms used, the health claims used or, in some cases, where dietary supplements are regulated under drug law (South Africa and/or Australia).Definition. Despite the existing FAO-WHO definition on probiotics, most countries have not yet adopted a legal definition at national or regional levels. Some countries have adopted either broad definitions, referring to probiotics that confer health benefits based on the FAO-WHO definition, or literally, the FAO-WHO definition in their national regulations. Examples of this can be found in China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Brazil, and Canada.Similarly, there are some countries that have adopted a definition of probiotics focused on digestive health. Examples of such countries include Italy, referring to the balance of intestinal flora, or Colombia, with a reference to microbial balance. It is also worth highlighting that in several countries, probiotics are included as an ingredient, and are part of the definition of certain food categories and/or dietary supplements.Permitted probiotic microorganisms. The regulatory approaches taken to permit probiotic microorganisms in foods and dietary supplement will vary from country to country. Some countries, mainly from Asia, have adopted positive lists of probiotic microorganisms that are allowed to be added to foods and dietary supplements. These countries would include China, India, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, and Thailand. Others, such as Malaysia, have adopted positive lists only applicable to foods. In yet other countries, dietary supplement regulations include positive lists of permitted probiotic microorganisms in dietary supplements, such as Brazil and South Africa.Conversely, other types of lists include probiotic species/strains rather than an exhaustive positive list to be used by regulatory authorities. An example of this is the qualified presumption of safety (QPS) list in the EU.22 This list includes microorganisms that have been assessed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) as not raising any safety concerns. Probiotic microorganisms included therein are therefore regarded as safe by regulatory authorities in the EU.Although the QPS system was developed within EFSA joint working committees and scientific experts, it is important to discuss the generally recognized as safe (GRAS) guidelines for food additives in the US. These guidelines were developed by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as an amendment in 1958 to the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act of 1938 responding to concerns of safety of new food additives.23 QPS and GRAS are often considered as being synonymous, but there are distinctions between them, for example:

References

2022Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society.

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Global overview for probiotics: Trends, markets, and harmonization - Regulatory Focus

If you have medications that you need to take regularly, you're hardly alone. More than 131 million Americansor about 66 percent of all U.S. adultsuse prescription drugs, according to Georgetown University's Health Policy Institute (HPI). But despite being a vital component of healthcare, prescription drugs can also be quite dangerous. It's not only an issue of potential overuse either, as many people accidentally mix their medications in ways they don't realize are harmful. To combat this, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently sought to raise awareness about one potentially deadly combination. Read on to find out what the agency is warning against.

READ THIS NEXT:I'm a Pharmacist, and These Are the Medications You Should Never Mix.

The FDA says it has approved "over 20,000 prescription drug products." Almost all of these medicines can interact differently when combined with outside elements, which is why it's so important to listen to your healthcare providers and pay attention to the instructions listed with anything you're taking. For instance, certain prescription medications like Zocor, a statin used to lower cholesterol, and Procardia, a drug to treat high blood pressure, include warnings advising users not to drink grapefruit juice while taking them.

In the same vein, specific prescription meds can also interact negatively with a number foods, like dairy, leafy greens, or even bananas, per AARP. And health officials have long warned about the dangers of mixing prescription drugs with alcoholic drinks. "Drug interactions may make your drug less effective, cause unexpected side effects, or increase the action of a particular drug," the FDA says. "Some drug interactions can even be harmful to you."

Now, the FDA is warning about a harmful drug interaction that's a lot less well known.

The FDA released a consumer update in June, alerting Americans to a medication mistake that could have negative health consequences. If you're someone who takes prescription medications alongside dietary supplements, you should be aware that this combination can actually "endanger your health," according to the agency.

"Certain dietary supplements can change absorption, metabolism, or excretion of a medication," the FDA explained. "If that happens, it can affect the potency of your medication, which means you may get either too much or too little of the medication you need."

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Don't assume you're not at risk. Dietary supplements are "widely used," and "tens of millions of people in the U.S. take some kind of dietary supplement along with a prescription medication," according to the FDA. The agency explained that these supplements "include vitamins, minerals, and other less familiar substancessuch as amino acids, botanicals, and botanical-derived ingredients."

The FDA recommends that Americans talk to a healthcare professional before taking any dietary supplement or medicationwhether it's over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription. "Every time you visit a health care professional's office, bring a list of all the dietary supplements and medications you are currently taking. Include the dosages and how many times a day you take them," the agency said. "If you're thinking of adding a dietary supplement to your daily routine, call your health care professional first, and let them know what other supplements and medications you're taking."

This bad habit can have severe consequences. "Dietary supplements and medications could have dangerous and even life-threatening effects," the FDA warned. For instance, taking the herbal supplement St. John's wort can make drugs for HIV/AIDS, heart disease, depression, treatments for organ transplants, and birth control pill less effective, according to the agency.ae0fcc31ae342fd3a1346ebb1f342fcb

At the same time, certain dietary supplements like ginkgo biloba and vitamin E can thin your blood. So if you were to take either of these supplements with a medication like warfarin, which is a prescription blood thinner, the results could be particularly scary. "Taking any of these products together may increase the potential for internal bleeding or stroke," the FDA warned.

With that in mind, it's important to heed the agency's advice about mixing anything you're taking, even if it's something "all natural."

Best Life offers the most up-to-date information from top experts, new research, and health agencies, but our content is not meant to be a substitute for professional guidance. When it comes to the medication you're taking or any other health questions you have, always consult your healthcare provider directly.

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Combining Your Medication With This May Have "Life-Threatening Effects" - Best Life

The French brand, which specializes in aromatherapy, natural and do it yourself beauty, has opened a 180 m2 store at the Forum des Halles in Paris, France. On this occasion, Aroma-Zone is launching a new concept, designed to facilitate the customers journey and the discovery of the brands three main families: Beauty, Health & Well-Being and Home. This is the tenth boutique of the brand in France (after Lyon, Montpellier, Toulouse, Marseille, Aix-en-Provence, Lille, et Strasbourg), and the third in Paris, after those of the Odon district and Boulevard Haussmann

"We were looking for a location that would be easily accessible from the entire Paris region, because our customers sometimes come from very far away to find our products," explains Sabrina Herlory, CEO of Aroma-Zone, to Premium Beauty News.

With more than 2,300 references of natural products, the shop gives access to the Aroma-Zone team of natural beauty advisers, to freely accessible digital tablets that enable consumers to consult the brands recipes for making their own cosmetics, QR codes placed on all the products and giving access to their details on the Aroma-Zone website, as well as two bulk bars a liquid soap bar and a vegetable oil bar.

The opening of this new Parisian location comes with the launch of several new products: a CBD oil titrated at 12% and the brands first food supplements in the form of eight 100% natural and organic superfoods powders (alfalfa, baobab, chlorella, turmeric, ginkgo biloba, Brazilian ginseng, guarana, matcha) and Curcumin and Spirulina tablets.

While they currently only operates in France, Aroma-Zone is resolutely preparing its internationalization and will open a new store on October 20 in Brussels, Belgium.

There is a strong international demand for our natural, simple and affordable products. Although it is only written in French, 15% of orders on our online store already come from abroad, emphasises Sabrina Herlory.

This first foray outside France will be followed by an opening in Italy. Switzerland and Spain are expected to follow in 2023.

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Aroma-Zone opens a new store in Paris and prepares to grow abroad - Premium beauty

There are several specific nutrients that are involved in female fertility.

Not only is vitamin D important for maintaining the health of your bones and immune system, it may also be involved in fertility. In fact, a small study in Fertility and Sterility found that women with low levels of vitamin D were less likely to conceive compared to those with normal levels. Additionally, a new 2022 meta-analysis found that vitamin D insufficiency and deficiency are associated with miscarriage.

Because vitamin D is found naturally in few food sources and is usually obtained through sun exposure, supplementation may be recommended for those at risk for deficiency.

Folic acid is a B vitamin frequently found in prenatal supplements and fortified foods. Interestingly, folic acid has also been shown to increase the chances of conception, especially in women with irregular cycles.

Eli Reshef, M.D. a reproductive endocrinologist at the Integris Bennett Fertility Institute in Oklahoma City, recommends folic acid supplementation before and during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects. Specifically, he recommends taking an over-the-counter prenatal supplement that contains at least 800 milligrams of folic acid to support fertility.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that women of reproductive age should get at least 400 micrograms of folate per day, which can come from a combination of foods or supplements. Leafy greens, legumes and whole grains are all excellent sources of folate.

Selenium is an essential trace mineral needed for the production of hormones and selenoproteins, a type of protein involved in reproductive health. Not only can a deficiency in selenium impair fertility, but it could also increase the risk of miscarriage and other pregnancy complications.

Most people can get enough of this important micronutrient by following a balanced diet that contains selenium-rich foods like meat, fish and eggs. Its also commonly added to multivitamins and prenatal supplements.

Though most well-known for its positive effects on heart health and inflammation, omega-3 fatty acids may have an impact on fertility as well. In fact, studies show these healthy fats can help balance levels of reproductive hormones, regulate menstruation and improve egg quality and implantation.

Enjoying a few weekly servings of fatty fish, such as salmon, sardines or tuna, is a great way to bump up your intake of omega-3 fatty acids. If you dont regularly eat fish, consider taking a supplement sourced from fish oil or algal oil instead.

Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is a type of antioxidant that is produced naturally by the body and found in many foods, including organ meats and fish. Some studies have found that CoQ10 could improve ovarian response and increase rates of conception in women undergoing fertility treatments.

As we age, the bodys production of CoQ10 slows down, making it increasingly challenging to protect eggs from oxidative damage and making it harder for women to conceive, notes Rosmy Barrios, M.D., a regenerative medicine specialist at the IM Clinic in Belgrade, Serbia.

Consider asking your doctor if a CoQ10 supplement might be right for you.

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Fertility Supplements And Vitamins For Women: What You Need To Know - Forbes

The International Testing Agency (ITA) webinar series goes into the next round. The ninth webinar of 2022 is all about supplements and informed decision-making. It will take place on Wednesday 28 September, at 14:00 CEST.

"Supplements are one of the leading causes of inadvertent doping, yet studies have estimated that supplement use among athletes ranges anywhere from 40% to 100% (Garthe & Maughan, 2018). Athletes use supplements for a multitude of reasons, such as to support basic nutritional needs, manage nutritional deficiencies, improving and/or sustain health, and enhance physical performance. Supplements can offer the prospect of bridging the gap between success and failure, but often come with health risks and can contain substances prohibited in sports," the ITA says about their webinar.All athletes and their support personnel are invited to join the webinar, which is the first of two lessons designed to support informed decision-making around supplement use.Experts for part one are Carina Horn, an international track and field athlete from South Africa, who tested positive for a prohibited substance from supplement use, and nutrition expert Lillian Morton, who has worked with multiple elite athletes across different sports. They will not only share their experiences but also provide practical tips on a food-first approach to nutrition.As always, the webinars will be available in English with simultaneous translation to four additional languages Arabic, Spanish, French and Russian.

To register for the webinar, click here.

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ITA offers webinar focusing on supplements and informed decision-making (part 1) - IHF

LOS ANGELES On September 15, the Pet Independent Innovation Awards, a platform that recognizes the most innovative pet care companies, services and products, announced the results of its fourth annual awards. The Pet Innovation Awards strives to honor innovation and the best in various pet food, supplies and service categories.

The 2022 awards received more than 2,000 nominations worldwide.

Its hard to put into words how important and irreplaceable pets are when it comes to our families and lives, said Travis Grant, managing director, Independent Innovation Awards. Pet parents are willing to pay for quality products that help improve the health and wellbeing of their beloved pets. Weve received nominations from incredible companies and technologies that are truly raising the bar when it comes to pet centric products.

In pet food, notable winners include:

Cat Food Functional Diet Product of the Year

JAC Pet Nutrition won Cat Food Functional Diet Product of the Year for its Air Dried Superfood Crumbles cat food topper. The multi-functional topper is formulated with superfoods and TruMune Postbiotics, a blend of pro- and prebiotics by Cargills brand Diamond V, to help support digestive, joint, microbiome, skin and coat health in cats.

Most treat companies dont test for, or list, anything other than protein, crude fat, fiber and things like that, Grant said. The right amount of protein, fat, fiber, moisture, ash, vitamins, minerals and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids can make a huge difference in the dietary intake of cats as well as other pets. JAC Pet Nutrition uses a holistic approach to pet health by actually using food science to create their recipes. Their commitment to the highest quality pet treats and food toppers using all natural, premium ingredients makes them our choice for Cat Food Functional Diet Product of the Year.

JAC Pet Nutritions topper contains more than 390 mg of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids per serving, offering an extra boost of health benefits. According to the company, Omega 3s have a variety of anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce blood pressure and control blood sugar, and Omega 6s provide nutrients to help reduce itchy skin and support a shiny coat.

Were thrilled by this recognition from Pet Innovation, said Charlie Bachkora, founder of JAC Pet Nutrition. I started my own pet company after working with and studying pet nutrition for years. We remain committed to providing innovative, healthy and functional pet products.

What sets us apart is that we send our products to a lab to test for vitamins, minerals, and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids that promote feline health, Bachkora added. Postbiotics has scientific data from Cargill that supports the claim. We put the results on the back of every bag. With all the unvalidated claims you see on packages today, we are committed to this mandate: if we claim it, we guarantee it.

JAC Pet Nutrition launched the functional cat food topper in August.

Cat Food Wet Product of the Year

Kit Cat international won Cat Food Wet Product of the Year for its Kit Cat Complete Cuisine. Developed by nutritionists, the cat food product is a complete-and-balanced diet in a meat flake-only format and made with fresh, natural ingredients. The recipe does not contain grains, artificial flavors or preservatives.

Kit Cat Complete Cuisine is the first format of its kind that meets European Pet Food Industry Federation (FEDIAF) standards, according to Kit Cat International.

We are truly honored to be recognized by Pet Innovation and be among the winners circle, said Kenneth Koh, co-founder of Kit Cat International. Our passion for animal welfare, shelters and stray cats has been the main catalyst to starting our company. We are advocates for cats and pets on every level.

Source: Kit Cat InternationalProviding a wholesome and natural cat product made up of the freshest raw materials has been our goal from the start, Koh added. We strive to create simple, yet high quality and nutritious meals that even the most discerning cat will enjoy. After all, cats are an integral part of our families, and they deserve the best that we can offer them to ensure they have a long and pawspurrous life.

Kit Cat Complete Cuisine is available in 14 recipes, including Chicken and Goji Berry in Broth, Chicken and Skipjack in Broth, Chicken and Salmon in Broth, Tuna and Chia Seed in Broth, and others. According to Pet Independent Innovation Awards, Kit Cat Cuisine was chosen for its commitment to ingredient transparency and high quality.

It's important to be transparent about the sources of products when it comes to pet food, Grant said.Particularly wet food. Ensuring high quality that is both wholesome and natural in the ingredients that go into cat products makes a difference in the health and well-being of our feline friends. You can tell Kit Cats line of high-quality and nutritious cat food was created by cat lovers. Its simple to serve but packed with the essential ingredients that cats need and meets the highest level of industry standards while ensuring the health of even our fussiest eating cat companions.

Cat Food Freeze-Dried Product of the Year

Purpose Pet Food, a New Jersey-based manufacturer of premium freeze-dried raw pet food and treats, has won Cat Food Freeze Dried Product of the Year. The companys cat food, along with all its freeze-dried formulas, are formulated using farm-raised, pasture-fed, free-range and humanely reared protein sources, without any added hormones or antibiotics, as well as organic produce.

Manufactured in a USDA-certified facility, the companys cat foods consist of 99% meat fortified with natural vitamins and minerals. The companys cat food line includes chicken, duck, turkey and rabbit recipes.

Source: Purpose Pet FoodThank you to the 2022 Pet Independent Innovation Awards for recognizing our commitment to excellence and changing the pet food industry for good, said Josephine Zee, owner of Purpose Pet Food. Purpose started with the belief that wellness is not a one-way street, and that pet parents want to feed their pets better food that reflects their own ethical values so that, together, we can make a difference. In addition to our core values as animal lovers who want to feed our pets the best, natural ingredients, we also believe in making a difference by supporting independent, ethically run, American farms.

According to the Pet Independent Innovation awards, Purpose Pet Foods products were chosen for its high commitment to food quality.

Freeze-drying is the gold standard when it comes to food preparation since once the moisture is removed, the nutrients remain, Grant said. Freeze drying results in some of the highest quality pet food. However, there are so many freeze-dried raw pet food diets on the market today, its hard to know where true quality resides.

Purpose Pet Foods really is a company with a purpose with a company ethos that is setting the new standard within the pet food industry, Grant added. Their conscious sourcing model and quality ingredients set themselves apart. Their product is also irresistible to our furry loved ones. We are proud to award Purpose Pet Food with this years Cat Food Freeze Dried Product of the Year Award. It is also in the top three finalists in dog food.

Cat Treat Product of the Year

Paw CBD, a brand of cbdMD Inc., won Cat Treat Product of the Year for its soft CBD cat treats. Formulated with broad-spectrum CBD, the soft hemp chews are THC-free and can help cats manage daily stress by supporting calmness and comfort.

Source: Paw CBDAt every age, our kitty companions need wellness support, Grant explained. From helping them stay happy and active when theyre young to keeping them calm and comfortable as they age, their health and wellbeing are a top priority. The CBD chews from Paw CBD provide even the finickiest of felines the love and support they deserve in one easy-to-use, flavorful bite.

The soft treats are flavored using real chicken and catnip ingredients and are certified by the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC). Paw CBDs cat treats are available in two strengths based on a cats weight: 150 mg and 300 mg.

Paw CBD was founded by pet lovers for pet lovers to help our best friends live their best lives, said Matt Coapman, chief marketing officer of cbdMD. We are proud to offer superior Broad Spectrum CBD oil products for pets. From everyday wellness to those extra stressful times like riding in a carrier, trips to the vet, or nail trims and grooming, these CBD cat chews are the purr-fect option.

Dog Calming Product of the Year

Paw CBD was also selected by the Pet Innovation Awards as the winner of Dog Calming Product of the Year for its Paw CBD Calming Oil for canines.

Being in the winners circle for the Pet Innovation Awards twice this year is thrilling and a vindication of our dedication to our furry companions, Coapman said.

Source: Paw CBDFormulated with broad spectrum hemp, chamomile, passionflower and melatonin, the oil can serve as a sleep aid for dogs experiencing stressful situations.

Of all the reasons dog owners seek out CBD products, one of the most common is for help with stress and anxiety issues, Grant said. In fact, 20% to 40% of dogs seen by veterinarians and behavioral specialists suffer from separation issues. Whether its separation, noise aversion, or other fear behaviors, desperate owners are eager to find ways to help their anxious pups. Paw CBD Calming Oil addresses this specific wellness issue, especially for dogs, with one product. With its innovative blend of ingredients and care, this amazing oil deserves recognition in the Dog Calming Product of the Year category.

The Calming Oil is also NASC certified and is available in a blueberry flavor. The oil can be served as a stand-alone treat or drizzled onto and regular treat or meal.

Its an honor to receive this category award for a second time from Pet Innovation, Coapman said. Of course, many options are available to calm and soothe our canine friends. But not all of them are created equal. While there are CBD products for dogs and there are calming products for dogs, very few combine the powerful properties of both into one easy solution. Because our pets are all these things and more, Paw CBD was created to provide safe, versatile CBD oil products for the ongoing wellbeing and happiness of the cats and dogs we call family.

Dog Food Product of the Year

Solid Gold was awarded Dog Food Product of the Year by the Pet Independent Innovation Awards for its NutrientBoost line of products.

The line features premium recipes and food toppers developed to improve nutrient absorption and provide a boost to a dogs immune and gut health. Solid Golds NutrientBoost line is formulated with plasma, protein and a proprietary blend proven to help promote a healthy gut and immune system in dogs, according to the company.

We are delighted to have our innovative NutrientBoost line recognized as one of the best products for dogs, said Steve Ball, chief executive officer of North America at H&H Group, parent company of Solid Gold. Over the last 40 years, Solid Gold has continued to disrupt the holistic pet food category with new innovations that support a pets wellness and we are eager to continue to introduce exciting and beneficial products for pets and pet parents in years to come.

Dog Food Freeze-Dried Product of the Year

Tuckers won Dog Food Freeze Dried Product of the Year for its freeze-dried dog food formulas, which can be served as complete-and-balanced meal, food topper or treat. Comprised of 95% meat, bone and marrow and 5% pumpkin, which can help support digestive health, Tuckers freeze-dried dog food is suitable for dogs of all ages.

In the ever-expanding world of the pet care industry, stores and consumers are being inundated with SKUs, making it difficult to find what you're looking for, Grant said. There are a number of freeze-dried options but they are usually a part of a multi-step diet for pets. This can be confusing for consumers and not ideal for pets when it comes time for feeding. Tucker's Freeze-Dried Raw Formulas solve that problem and conserve valuable retailer shelf space by being a three-in-one product. By offering a product that is meant to feed, top or even treat, Tucker's has created an innovative and nutritious product for pets that you can trust.

As well as offering pet parents convenience, the freeze-dried formulas also support maximum nutrient absorption. By emulsifying its entire formulas, Tuckers expands the surface area of its freeze-dried products, providing dogs with the ability to absorb more nutrients from the food in a short period of time. According to the company, it is the only raw pet food company to emulsify its entire product.

Tuckers freeze-dried dog foods are available in 12-oz and 14-oz bags, suitable for traveling or on-the-go pet owners. The dog food comes in a variety of flavors, including Chicken-Pumpkin, Pork-Beef-Pumpkin, Salmon-Pumpkin, Pork-Bison-Pumpkin and Pork-Duck-Pumpkin.

Were so excited to receive this recognition from Pet Innovation, said Jeff Kalish, founder of Tuckers. We obviously love pets and believe that they are an extension of our lives and our biggest fans. With that said, they deserve the best that raw nutrition has to offer. All our meats are human-grade and sourced exclusively in the United States. In developing our formulas, we work with three out of the 10 zoological nutritionists in the world and it's these leading experts that have helped us create our 95/5 raw diets. We also feel it's important to take into account our retailer partners and their needs when creating our products.

Dog Treat Functional Product of the Year

Pets Best Life won Dog Treat Functional Product of the Year for its Yummy Combs Dog Treats. Yummy Combs are an oral care treat for dogs made in a patented honeycomb shape. According to Pets Best Life, the treat is the first thin-walled treat that can help floss and scrub a dogs teeth from every angle and from the gum line to the upper and lower jaw.

With periodontal disease being the number one disease in dogs, in the advanced stages dogs may be in significant pain, Grant said. However, pets tend to hide this out of instinct. Unfortunately, the effects of periodontal disease dont remain confined to the teeth and gums this disease can lead to problems with a dogs organs and even cause heart disease if the bacteria enters the bloodstream.

Revolutionary Yummy Combs Dog Treats are changing the way people treat their dogs, Grant explained. Yummy Combs is the perfect combination of revolutionary oral care, nutrition, advanced safety and wellness all for the pets best life. With its great taste, its the easiest, most fun way to floss and brush your dogs teeth.

Formulated with 47% protein, with chicken listed as the first ingredient, Yummy Combs provides nutritional, as well as oral benefits. The treat provides all essential amino acids dogs need, as well as vitamins, minerals, and twelve wellness ingredients to support digestion, cognitive function, skin and coat, and dental, heart and joint health. Yummy Combs are gluten- and grain-free, non-GMO and made with less starch compared to standard treats.

As well as an innovative, patented shape, the treats also feature a patent pending ingredient called Slick M, which makes the treat slippery when touched by saliva, water or gastric acid, allowing for easier digestion.

Were so honored that Yummy Combs have won this award from Pet Innovation, said Joe Roetheli, PhD, co-founder of Pets Best Life. Along with Board-Certified Veterinary Dentist Dr. Jan Bellows and Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionist Dr. Lon Lewis, we set out to create a unique treat that encompasses the best in oral care, nutrition, enjoyment and safety. Its the revolutionary shape that makes all the difference. Pet owners love to watch their pups get excited and dance, wiggle and waggle waiting for a Yummy Combs dog treat.

Vitamin/Supplement Product of the Year

Ultimate Pet Nutrition won Vitamin/Supplement Product of the Year award for its Nutra Thrive For Dogs supplement, which supports overall dog health. Developed by veterinarians, Nutra Thrive comes in a powdered form and can help support muscle, teeth, digestive and bone health.

Our pets' overall health and wellbeing are always at the forefront of an owners mind, Grant said. Ultimate Pet Nutrition Nutra Thrive For Dogs is paving the way for a new era of conscious pet health to help our furry friends and companions thrive. With a delicious taste dogs enjoy and their personal guarantee standing behind each product, Ultimate Pet Nutrition formulates some of the most advanced pet food, supplements and treats currently on the market.

Nutra Thrive is formulated with a blend of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino acids, digestive enzymes, probiotics and phytonutrients and made without added fillers or artificial ingredients. The supplement can be added to a dogs food for a nutrient boost.

We are proud to accept this 2022 Pet Innovation Award for Nutra Thrive For Dogs, our first-of-its-kind canine supplement, said Gary Richter, Ph.D., founder of Ultimate Pet Nutrition. When we started Ultimate Pet Nutrition, our goal was to create a place where pet lovers can go for a premium, veterinarian-approved solutions for their furry friends. Nutra Thrive supports the overall health of our favorite companions.

Among the above, several other pet food companies received awards:

As well as innovative pet food, treats and supplements, the Pet Innovation Awards also recognized pet apparel, bowls, feeders, waterers, collars, leashes, harnesses, grooming, cleaning, health, housing, litter, toys and training products, as well as pet services and insurance.

To be an Innovator takes passion, creativity and hard work, Grant said. Our 2022 winners are revolutionizing and advancing the pet industry through goods, services, and technology. Were proud to announce the class of 2022 with their incredible innovative products and services.

View the full2022 winners of the Pet Innovation Awards.

Stay up to date on thelatest pet food processing industry headlineson our News page.

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Awards recognize the latest innovative pet food products - Pet Food Processing

27-Sep-2022

Global cases of anxiety and depression jumped 25% in the first year of the pandemic.1 Its a startling fact but one that explains why, in 2022, consumers are prioritising mental well-being as much as physical health, reportsSophie Zillinger Molenaar,Global Marketing Lead, Biotis,FrieslandCampina Ingredients

Today, consumers are prioritising holistic health as they increasingly focus on the inextricable link between mental and physical well-being. This all has, of course, led to a significant shift in the way we talk about and support mental health.

Once-taboo topics are now being discussed more openly, the prevalence of mental health issues is more widely understood and our physical status is championed as a key contributor to good mental health. Its no surprise then that 53% of consumers are taking proactive steps to improve their mental and cognitive health.2

This is good news for the nutrition industry; when it comes to brain health supplements, increased demand is leading to an expected CAGR of 8.3% from 2022 to 2030, showing clear growth and plenty of potential within this market.2

But in an ever-crowded marketplace, how can brands formulate mental well-being solutions that stand out? And what scientifically backed ingredients can help brands to promote the efficacy of their products?

Although growing research sheds light on the relationship between physical and cognitive health, clinical studies have also been highlighting the important role that the gut can play in overall health potentially unlocking significant opportunity for brands.

Gut-brain axis: on consumers mindsIn recent years, scientific research has made it increasingly clear that overall health can be greatly affected by the composition of our gut microbiota. Specifically, research into the gut-brain axis an intricate communication network that connects the gut and the brain could be a potential game changer when managing mental health symptoms.

And its not just scientific research thats beginning to unravel the importance of gut health consumers are too.

Fuelled by interest in holistic health, todays tech and research-savvy consumers are educating themselves on the benefits that a healthy gut can offer. Now, not only do 64% understand the concept of bacteria within the digestive system, but two in three also recognise that gut health is the key to achieving overall well-being.3

As a result, consumers are seeking gut health solutions to support more than just digestion. In 2021, 66% of consumers were interested in digestive health products, even if they werent suffering from digestive health concerns.4

This not only signifies a shift towards making proactive changes to support physical and mental health it also provides an opportunity for brands to create innovative products positioned around both the physical and mental benefits of a healthy gut.

Formats and flavours: whats trending in mental well-being?Regular exercise and eating healthily can help to combat some mental health symptoms, such as feelings of stress. But with todays increasingly busy lifestyles and consumers trying to juggle many different responsibilities family, social and work it can be incredibly difficult to find the time to focus on nutrition.

In fact, with 24% of consumers skipping breakfast and 26% missing lunch at least three times a week, convenience is key when it comes to formulating cognitive well-being products.5 And snacks and drinks that pack multiple different benefits can give consumers the nutritional boost they need, quickly.

However, its essential that these products arent just functional; they must taste good too. One reason for drinks being popular in the cognitive well-being space is that they can easily be infused with flavours that people associate with calming feelings, such as florals and botanicals.

And as 71% of consumers find food and drinks positioned around improving cognitive health attractive, we can expect to see more tasty products such as chocolate bars with relaxing label claims appear on shelves tapping into the time-old tradition of using chocolate as a relaxing treat.6

Supplements, too, are seeing growth in popularity, partly because they are easily incorporated into daily routines; 21% of consumers are already using nutritional supplements to boost their health.7 Nutritional gummies, in particular, are set for a popularity boom, with an expected CAGR of 4.88% from 20222027.8

Developments in ingredient science such as novel, high-purity prebiotics are enabling brands to create on-trend and innovative formats including gummies, capsules and tablets.

Although smaller applications were traditionally difficult to formulate, research has highlighted that galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS) are effective in a 2 g dose, making them an ideal way to meet consumer demand for convenience.9

In focus ingredientsTo create on-trend cognitive well-being applications, brands need to use ingredients that consumers trust. Natural, recognisable and non-addictive products are hugely important to consumers and demand has grown sharply in recent years.

When it comes to creating appeal through ingredient claims particularly if using an emerging or unfamiliar ingredient its essential that brands choose those with strong scientific backing and take the time to educate their consumers about the products benefits.

For gut health products, probiotics are the reigning leader, with 84% of consumers already aware of probiotic ingredients and their benefits.4

But emerging ingredients are stepping up to the plate. For example, prebiotics such as GOS are increasingly popular thanks to their efficacy; they have been shown to increase the relative abundance of Bifidobacteria in the gut, which has, in turn, been shown to correlate with a reduction of stress and anxiety symptoms via the gut-brain axis.

And because health-conscious consumers are staying on top of the latest ingredient research, awareness of prebiotics is on the rise. Today, more than half of consumers now have an awareness of prebiotics as a beneficial gut health ingredient and 15% are aware of synbiotics, which combine both pre- and probiotics.4

For brands, theres an undeniable opportunity to tap into this awareness of prebiotics to create on-trend, easy-to-consume and efficacious products that are proven to deliver the health benefits consumers want.

Prebiotics can easily be formulated into functional foods with ingredients such as protein to promote both physical and mental resilience or combined with vitamins and minerals to make relaxing RTDs to support better sleep.

Whats next for cognitive well-being?With consumer interest in mental health on the rise, there are plenty of opportunities for brands to create solutions to meet growing demand. Looking ahead, we are likely to see even more interest in products that can support cognitive well-being, as well as combined applications that support other aspects of mental and physical health.

But formulating on-trend, easy-to-consume and scientifically proven products that stand out in a busy market is no small feat. Trusted and reputable partners can not only provide brands with high-quality, efficacious and clinically researched ingredients, they also know what consumers want next from cognitive well-being products.

Together, these elements will empower brands to create nutritional mental well-being solutions that could make a real difference to consumers lives.

References

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On-mind and on-trend: formulating products for cognitive well-being - Nutraceutical Business Review

We take supplements because we want to improve our health. But some supplements can cause uncomfortable and even dangerous side effects, especially if you take too many of them simultaneously. These are some of the most common symptoms that you've taken too many vitamins. Read on to find out moreand to ensure your health and the health of others, don't miss these Sure Signs You've Already Had COVID.

Gastrointestinal upset is often the first sign that you've taken too many supplements. You might get nauseous, vomit, or have diarrhea. This is common when you've taken a supplement without food. "Taking vitamins on an empty stomach can frequently upset the GI tract," said gastroenterologist Dr. Christine Lee of the Cleveland Clinic. It's a good idea to check in with your doctor about the best way to take supplements or if you're taking too many.

This is one of the side effects associated with taking too much vitamin A, which is a fat-soluble vitamin. Unlike water-soluble vitamins, which are eliminated in the urine, fat-soluble vitamins are stored in body fat. That can cause unwanted side effects like hair loss. The other fat-soluble vitamins are D, E and K. Take care not to exceed the recommended daily dosage.

This can be the alarming side effect of taking too many weight-loss supplements, some of which contain stimulants. That can result in rapid or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, or increased blood pressure, says the National Institutes of Health's Office of Dietary Supplements. According to a study by the New England Journal of Medicine, weight-loss supplements are the #1 reason for supplement-related trips to the emergency room.6254a4d1642c605c54bf1cab17d50f1e

Taking too many supplements can stress the liver, causing symptoms like an increase in liver enzymes, hepatitis, or even liver failure. (There have been several reports of liver injury associated with green tea extract supplements, for example.) This is another good reason to check with your doctor before starting a supplement regimenyou can make sure your liver is healthy enough and that any medications you're currently taking won't cause harmful interactions.

Some supplements can reduce the blood's ability to clot, which can make you more susceptible to bleeding, even serious bleeding episodes. Vitamin K is one such supplement; it can reduce clotting when taken in conjunction with the anticoagulant warfarin. Vitamin E is another, and doctors don't recommend taking it as a supplement by itself because the bleeding risk supersedes potential benefits. This year, experts also recommended against most people beginning a new regimen of taking daily aspirin because of its bleeding risks.

And to protect your life and the lives of others, don't visit any of these 35 Places You're Most Likely to Catch COVID.

Michael Martin

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The #1 Sign You're Taking "Too Many Vitamins" Eat This Not That - Eat This, Not That