Liposomal ashwagandha for cognitive and emotional benefits 

A study published in the journal Nutrients highlights the cognitive and emotional health benefits of Specnova's  proprietary liposomal ashwagandha ingredient NooGandha. The randomized, double-blind trial, conducted by Texas A&M University, University of Wisconsin, and Increnovo LLC, involved 59 healthy participants with an average age of 22.

The finding: A single 225-mg dose of NooGandha improved memory, reaction time, and executive function. After 30 days of daily supplementation, subjects experienced further gains in reaction time and executive function and reported reduced tension and fatigue compared to the placebo group.

Specnova founder and CEO Sebastian Balcombe, MS, said liposomal NooGandha is “the next generation ashwagandha,” offering enhanced bioavailability and significant cognitive benefits at a lower yet more potent dosage. “The research shows superior nootropic performance that’s significantly different from other ashwagandha extracts in the market. NooGandha is the only ashwagandha specifically designed to support cognitive health. NooGandha’s superiority stems from a highly technical front-end vetting process that’s followed by the targeted extraction of key compounds from roots and leaves to produce only desired cognitive results—without the sleep-inducing and sedative effects often associated with ashwagandha.”  

Balcombe added: “While our withanolide content is higher than any other products according to the standardized USP/HPLC method, a variety of alkaloids and other bioactives also play an important role in making NooGandha higher performing than other ashwagandha. We know precisely what kinds of high-performance benefits manufacturers and consumers can expect from products containing NooGandha. Bottom line: Ingredient performance is where the botanical rubber meets the road.”

This ingredient helps meet the growing demand among students, gamers, athletes, and professionals, for fast-acting cognitive support, the company says. NooGandha is positioned as an ideal component for products in cognitive performance, brain health, sports nutrition, and e-gaming categories.

HMB’s for weight management and muscle preservation

TSI Group is spreading the word on HMB, a clinically studied ingredient that helps maintain muscle mass during calorie restriction or rapid weight loss. Its benefits are particularly significant for individuals on GLP-1 receptor agonists, which are popular for appetite suppression and fat loss but often lead to muscle loss. HMB helps mitigate this by:

  • Promoting muscle protein synthesis and reducing breakdown
  • Preserving lean muscle mass while encouraging fat utilization
  • Supporting muscle function and reducing intermuscular adipose tissue

Published research highlights HMB’s benefits across diverse weight management strategies, the company says:

  • Calorie restriction: Helps athletes and individuals maintain muscle mass while losing fat.
  • Intermittent fasting: Enhances fat loss and body composition improvements when combined with fasting.
  • Sedentary populations: Improves muscle health and reduces fat mass, even without exercise.

There is growing recognition of HMB as an essential component of weight management solutions. The launch of Abbott’s PROTALITY Advance shake, featuring HMB, underscores its importance in preserving muscle mass during weight loss, especially for individuals using GLP-1 receptor agonists, the company says. “Seeing HMB recognized and utilized by major nutrition companies validates the extensive research supporting its role in muscle preservation,” said Larry Kolb, President of TSI Group.

Probiotic strain for glutathione production

Essential Formulas shared the news that its Director of Science, Ross Pelton, RPh, Ph.D., CCN, had his article, The Glutathione Theory of Aging published in the October 2024 edition of Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine. A key finding in this research: The probiotic strain Lactobacillus fermentum ME-3, discovered in 1995 by award-winning microbiologist Marika Mikelsaar, M.D., Ph.D., and her research scientists at the University of Tartu in Estonia, produces glutathione, the "Master Antioxidant” made and used by every cell in the body. Dr. Pelton reviews glutathione's biological functions and role as a key regulator of detoxification, immune function, and antiviral activity. Suboptimal glutathione levels are typical due to diet, lifestyle, and environmental factors contributing to glutathione depletion. When it comes to supplementing,
Essential Formulas notes that oral intake of glutathione results in its breakdown during digestion, and levels naturally decline with age.  “That’s where ME-3 comes in,” said Dr. Pelton. "Essential Formulas’ Reg´Activ products that contain ME-3 are the only supplements that consistently and effectively boost glutathione levels in the body, leading to a paradigm-changing revolution in health and medicine." 

Dr. Pelton added, “Probiotic research is rapidly transforming our understanding of human health as science discovers that specific strains can produce concrete health benefits. This is truly an exciting time in probiotic science, and the ongoing discoveries of health-promoting strains will alter the entire landscape of functional health.” 

Probiotic efficacy for infant colic

Clinical research published in the European Journal of Pediatrics compared the efficacy of AB-Biotics and Kaneka Probiotics’ proprietary probiotic blend (B. longum KABP®-042 and P. pentosaceus KABP®-041) for reducing colic symptoms with that of Biogaia’s L. reuteri DSM17938.

Key findings, as oultined by AB-Biotics and Kaneka Probiotics:

  • In 1 week, the combination of B. longum KABP®-042 and P. pentosaceus KABP®-041 reduces daily crying and fussing by 60 minutes more than L.reuteri DSM 17938.
  • The combination of strains  shows notably quicker results than L. reuteri DSM17938, with the most significant differences after seven and 14 days of treatment.

This multicenter, randomized, single-blind study included 112 colicky infants and is the first to directly compare the two most documented probiotics for infant colic. Results confirm the blend’s efficacy in relieving colic symptoms while improving gut microbiota balance. The probiotic blend works by inhibiting pathogenic bacteria growth, inducing anti-inflammatory cytokines, and supporting intestinal barrier integrity via polyphosphates.

The companies noted that, while L. reuteri DSM17938 has long been a trusted solution, this new probiotic blend marks a significant advancement in colic treatment.

“This study is a potential step-change for the symptom support of colicky infants,” said Sergi Audivert, Executive Director and Co-founder of AB-BIOTICS. “Our findings elevate the field of probiotic research, ensuring more effective solutions for alleviating infant colic globally.”

Polyphenols as a supportive adjunct to GLP-1 agonists

Layn Natural Ingredients announced findings that highlight the  potential of SophorOx, a proprietary blend of polyphenols, as a supportive adjunct to GLP-1 agonists in maintaining healthy hormone levels related to weight management.

 SophorOx has been shown to inhibit the expression of 8-isoprostane, a primary biomarker for oxidative stress, Layn reports. Chronic oxidative stress provokes the production of pro-inflammatory compounds that disrupt hormones produced by adipose tissue, including leptin and adiponectin. SophorOx supports healthy hormone levels by mitigating oxidative stress and its pro-inflammatory effects.

Layn says this mechanism may complement the action of GLP-1 agonists, which work along a different biological pathway: "GLP-1 medications function by blocking glucagon, a hormone that elevates blood sugar levels and contributes to insulin resistance, a common challenge in obesity. The combination of hormone-level regulation through SophorOx and the metabolic effects of GLP-1 agonists may provide a synergistic approach for comprehensive weight management."

Preliminary research suggests that combining quercetin, a compound found in SophorOx, with liraglutide (a GLP-1 agonist similar to Ozempic) yields synergistic effects, enhancing metabolic health and weight control outcomes.

Polyphenols for natural weight management

Clinical research published in the Journal of Applied Sciences highlights the efficacy of Metabolaid, a polyphenol-rich botanical composition formulated by Monteloeder, S.L., a subsidiary of SUANNUTRA. The ingredient, combining lemon verbena and hibiscus extracts, has been shown to support weight management and metabolic fitness. The study adds to a portfolio of 10 preclinical and clinical trials demonstrating Metabolaid’s benefits.

The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involved 61 overweight adults who took a daily low-dose capsule of Metabolaid or a placebo for three months. Key results include:

  • Significant reductions in body weight, body fat, and waist circumference
  • Preservation of muscle and bone mass, verified through DEXA scans
  • Improved satiety, as confirmed by questionnaires
  • A 7% average reduction in cholesterol levels, while blood glucose and blood pressure remained stable

Metabolaid’s mechanism of action is linked to its prebiotic effects and its ability to activate AMPK, an enzyme regulating energy balance and fat metabolism. The formula’s impact on GLP-1 hormone levels further supports appetite regulation and sustained weight management, the company says.

“Metabolaid offers a natural, clinically backed method to support weight management and contribute to healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels,” said Maria Ángeles-Gutiérrez, Marketing Director for SUANNUTRA. Metabolaid pairs lemon verbena, standardized to 25% verbascosides, with anthocyanin-rich hibiscus, standardized to 10% anthocyanins, creating a synergistic formulation that supports metabolic and cardiovascular health while addressing consumer demand for natural weight management solutions.

Anxiety Relief in menopausal women

Finzelberg shared new data on the effectiveness of its branded ingredient CONCENTAL, derived from Greek Mountain Tea Extract (Sideritis species), for addressing anxiety in menopausal and post-menopausal women. A study conducted at the Brain Performance and Nutrition Centre at Northumbria University in the UK focused on CONCENTAL’s impact on anxiety symptoms in women aged 50 to 70. Highlights include:

  • A 950-mg dose significantly reduced anxiety symptoms after 28 days compared to a placebo.
  • In a subgroup analysis:
    • Women aged 50–60 experienced up to a 19% reduction in anxiety with a 475mg dose.
    • Women over 60 saw nearly a 12% reduction with higher dosages, indicating dosage optimization may vary by age group.

"Dietary supplements containing branded ingredients such as CONCENTAL, with its efficacious natural active compounds derived from Sideritis species, are showing great results and numerous positive effects when dealing with anxiety states,” said Dr. Cynthia Suarez-Rizzo, Project Manager for New Product Development at Finzelberg. The company notes that, as more women seek non-hormonal, plant-based solutions to manage menopause-related anxiety and mood challenges, CONCENTAL offers a natural alternative supported by clinical research. This aligns with the growing consumer demand for effective, non-stimulant botanical ingredients in dietary supplements.

Vitamin K and D for protecting healthy bone structure

A review published in Nutrients discusses the roles of vitamin K and K-dependent proteins, and the combined action of vitamins K and D for bone health maintenance. This review consolidates evidence from various studies, including clinical trials, observational studies, and meta-analyses, according to Gnosis by Lesaffre. It also notes the synergistic benefits of combining K2 with D. When combined, K2 enhances bone mineral density more effectively than either vitamin alone. 

“This synergy is particularly beneficial for individuals at risk of osteoporosis, offering a comprehensive approach to bone health … Current treatments for osteoporosis, like bisphosphonates, remain necessary, but combining them with K2 and D3 could enhance prevention," the authors conclude. "Research on long-term effects and optimal supplementation strategies is crucial as osteoporosis rates rise globally.”

Jean-François Jeanne, Substantiation Team Leader at Gnosis, adds, “The growing body of evidence showing that supplementation with Vitamin K2 as MK-7 protects healthy bone structure is compelling, and MenaQ7 MK-7 has been the source material in pioneering research in this area...Gnosis is committed to delivering this message to brand developers, practitioners, retailers, and consumers—that vitamin K2 completes the triumvirate of bone health (with calcium and vitamin D). Further, we are actively supporting more bone research, with recent efforts focused on reducing the side effects of bisphosphonates.” 

Microalgae ingredient for cognitive function

Research published in Nutrients demonstrates that BrainPhyt, a natural microalgae ingredient, significantly enhances cognitive function in older adults experiencing memory decline. Developed by Microphyt, the ingredient is derived from the microalgae Phaeodactylum tricornutum Mi136.M1.a and features a patented composition of bioactives with fucoxanthin, a marine carotenoid, and omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and certain sterols.

In the 12-week double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study involved 43 healthy, physically active adults aged 55 to 75 who reported experiencing memory and cognitive decline, participants received either BrainPhyt in its powder form at a daily dose of 1100 mg (providing 8.8mg of fucoxanthin) or a placebo. Cognitive assessments and blood samples were collected at the start, and after 4 and 12 weeks. In addition to assessing cognitive parameters such as executive function, attention, and short- and long-term memory, the study measured stress levels, mood, sleep quality, and any potential side effects.

Key results, as outlined by Microphyt:

  • Participants showed significant improvements in working and episodic memory, reaction times, attention, vigilance, and executive function following supplementation with BrainPhyt.
  • Supplementation increased insulin sensitivity, which has been associated with maintaining cognitive health and preventing neurodegenerative diseases.
  • Participants reported significant improvements in sleep, including increased calmness, ease of awakening, and better alertness upon waking. This positive impact on sleep could contribute to BrainPhyt’s benefits for cognitive function, the company says.
  • The study found no negative effects on clinical blood markers.  BrainPhyt is recognized as safe according to the New Dietary Ingredient (NDI) notification number 1120, granted by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2019. 

Professor Richard Kreider, Ph.D., Department of Kinesiology and Sports Management, Texas A&M University, and a study researcher, stated “These findings suggest that BrainPhyt supplementation may play a role in mitigating early signs of cognitive decline in healthy older individuals. This research contributes to the growing body of evidence that nutritional interventions can support brain health and cognitive function as we age.”

Pectin polysaccharide fiber for immune support

Research published in Carbohydrate Polymers provides new insights into how the unique molecular structure and cell surface patterns of Benicaros, a natural pectin polysaccharide fiber from NutriLeads, contribute to enhancing immune system responses. Benicaros is extracted from carrot pomace—an upcycled side stream from carrot juice production.
 
The study primarily focuses on the immunological effects of Benicaros, a carrot rhamnogalacturonan-I (cRG-I) with a complex mixture of molecules with varying sizes, the company shared. Researchers analyzed how different size-separated fractions of cRG-I impact immune cell activity. Esterification is a chemical process where ester groups, such as acetyl groups, are added to cRG-I during its fermentation in the gut.
 
“This study represents an important contribution to the scientific field by showing how subtle differences in the molecular size and molecular structure of cRG-I polysaccharides in Benicaros impact its biological activity,” said lead researcher Henk Schols, Ph.D., Personal Professor Food Carbohydrate Biochemistry at Wageningen University, Netherlands. “This is the first study to highlight the importance of acetyl groups in the structure-dependent immunomodulation by cRG-I. We hypothesize that both epitope interactions and conformational interactions together dictate the specific bioactivity of Benicaros.”
 
Key findings, as outlined by NutriLeads:
  • Immunomodulatory effects of cRG-I are largely determined by its molecular weight, the length and type of side chains. The presence of acetyl (and methyl) ester groups also influences how cRG-I interacts with immune cells. 
  • cRG-I was found to dose-dependently stimulate the production of cytokines, which are signaling molecules that regulate immune responses. Production of these molecules varied according to the structure of the cRG-I fractions.
  • cRG-I immune modulation could potentially impact immune responses via anti- or pro-inflammatory pathways, as well as via the production of antibodies that are an essential part of the body’s natural defenses.
  • cRG-I has a very complex molecular structure, with more than 17 different saccharide linkages. These linkages and side chains also contribute to its ability to promote a healthy gut microbiota. 
In addition, the complex structure of Benicaros  enables targeted and consistent increases in beneficial gut bacteria, resulting in a stronger and resilient gut microbiome, the company says.


Herbal ingredient for boosting NAD

Blue Helix Health announced a human clinical study comparing its herbal NAD booster, BluNAD Booster, to known NAD precursors. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involved 140 subjects (35 in each group of BluNAD Booster, an NAD precursor, a combination of BluNAD Booster with precursor, and placebo) to evaluate the NAD-boosting activity in blood, physical performance, and quality of life.

Initial findings, as outlined by Blue Helix Health:

  • BluNAD Booster demonstrated statistically significant efficacy on its own boosting NAD
  • A synergistic effect was observed when combined with NAD precursors
  • Significant impact on NAD levels and related indicators
  • Unique ability to balance NAD-degrading enzymes was only shown with the BluNAD Booster

"This study reveals that herbal NAD boosters can also be significantly effective in NAD support compared to existing precursors, and may even result in higher levels," said Elise Kaiser, Chief Growth Officer, Blue Helix Health. "Particularly intriguing is the balancing effect on NADases, enzymes that degrade NAD. This dual action of boosting NAD levels and regulating degradation enzymes offers a compelling advantage.  So adding the Boosters to current market offerings, such as NR, NMN, and NAD, helps with synergy and differentiation, and the Boosters add benefits for balancing NAD degradation."

Botanical for prostate and bladder health concerns

Pharmactive Biotech Products shared findings on Plasys300, a proprietary botanical formulation designed to address common prostate and bladder health concerns, particularly nocturia—frequent nighttime urination. Plasys300 is a natural complex featuring rye pollen enriched with phytosterols, particularly beta-sitosterol. An eight-week study showcased the product's effectiveness. The study included 50 men aged 40–60 with nocturia symptoms.

Key findings, which suggest Plasys300 presents a promising path for men seeking improved quality of life through better urinary and prostate health.

  • 88% reported reduced nighttime urination urges.
  • 90% experienced fewer awakenings at night.
  • Over 80% reported improved sleep quality and overall well-being.
  • 9 in 10 participants indicated they would purchase and recommend Plasys300.

Carlos Rodriguez, Pharmactive’s Communication Manager, affirmed, “These findings emphasize Plasys300 as a reliable and effective natural solution for men’s urinary health, with significant satisfaction and purchase intent among users.”

The company plans to expand research on Plasys300 to explore new applications and strengthen its role as a trusted solution for men’s urinary and prostate health. 

Probiotic and postbiotic for gut health effects in adult dogs

ADM shared research published in the Journal of Animal Science on the effects of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CECT 8145 (BPL1) on adult dogs. This study explored the health impacts of both live probiotic and heat-treated postbiotic forms of BPL1, providing  insights into their role in canine gut health.
Led by Dr. Sophie Nixon, ADM’s Head of Clinical Research for Pet & Animal Well-being, the randomized, placebo-controlled study included 36 adult dogs divided into three groups: live BPL1, heat-treated BPL1, and placebo. A 90-day supplementation period following a 60-day standard diet adaptation.
Key findings:
  • Both live and postbiotic BPL1 supplementation enhanced fecal short-chain fatty acid production and positively influenced microbiome composition and functional metagenome.
  • BPL1 in both forms was deemed safe and effective for supporting gut health in healthy adult dogs.
  • FHeat-treated BPL1 was shown to provide stability under high-heat conditions like extrusion and baking, common in pet food manufacturing, offering formulators an alternative to live probiotics.

With 55% of U.S. pet owners purchasing biotics for digestive health based on professional recommendations, ADM said the findings align with the growing consumer demand for innovative, functional pet nutrition solutions. The study’s outcomes highlight opportunities for pet food manufacturers to formulate with stable, bioactive postbiotics like BPL1.

“This research underscores ADM’s dedication to leveraging cutting-edge science for health and wellness solutions,” said Mark Lotsch, President of Global Health & Wellness at ADM. “The flexibility and proven benefits of BPL1 make it a game-changer in pet health applications.”

West African spice for weight loss and mood support

Somnoril, a branded ingredient from Gateway Health Alliances, has been shown to reduce food cravings, support weight loss, improve mood, reduce stress, and enhance overall quality of life, according to clinical findings published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements. The study was conducted by researchers at Jacksonville University, Wellness Discovery Labs, and the University of North Florida.

The company says this publication marks the second paper from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study of the patented extract of Dichrostachys glomerata, a West African spice rich in bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, polyphenols, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, and terpenoids. 

“This is an important study that expands the known benefits of this remarkable natural food ingredient,” said Heather A. Hausenblas, Ph.D., lead study author and Professor, School of Applied Health Sciences, Brooks Rehabilitation College of Healthcare Sciences at Jacksonville University. “In addition to weight management, Dichrostachys glomerata supports other aspects of physical and mental health and wellness.”

Key benefits from the first study included faster sleep onset, longer sleep duration, and improved wakefulness, contributing to better daytime activity. The latest paper expands on Somnoril’s weight management benefits and its impact on overall quality of life in overweight and mildly obese adults.

Key results:

  • Participants taking Somnoril lost an average of 4.11 lbs. compared to 2.19 lbs. in the placebo group.
  • A significant reduction in food cravings was observed in the Somnoril group at both 30 and 60 days.
  • The study demonstrated a significant improvement in mood and reduction in perceived stress levels among participants taking Somnoril. Anxiety also decreased.
  • Participants taking Somnoril experienced significant improvements in their overall health, physical and mental well-being, and fewer disruptions to their daily lives due to health issues compared to the placebo group.

The company noted that Somnoril works by modulating key hormones, including GLP-1, insulin, leptin, and adiponectin, while reducing oxidative stress.

Olive lead extract for Menopause Symptoms

A peer-reviewed study published in Nutrients explored the benefits of Bonolive, a clinically validated olive leaf extract, in improving menopausal symptoms. Conducted by researchers at Maastricht University in collaboration with Solabia Nutrition, the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial demonstrated the ingredient's ability to address physical and psychological challenges faced by postmenopausal women.

The FEMMED study investigated the effects of daily supplementation with 250mg of Bonolive—standardized to 40% oleuropein—over 12 weeks in 60 postmenopausal women aged 47 to 70. The trial measured outcomes through DEXA scans, blood samples, and the Menopause Quality of Life (MENQoL) questionnaire, a globally recognized tool for evaluating menopause-related symptoms.
Key findings:
  • Bonolive significantly enhanced overall MENQoL scores after six weeks compared to placebo. The improvements spanned vasomotor (hot flashes), psychological (mood, sleep), physical (fatigue, joint discomfort), and sexual domains.
  • A significant increase in bone mineral density of the dominant arm was observed, aligning with the ingredients previously established bone-support benefits.
  • Bonolive lowered triglyceride levels and improved the TG/HDL ratio, contributing to heart health.

Read more of the latest research.