Natural Alternatives International recently introduced CarnoSyn 4X, a next-gen beta-alanine ingredient without the tingling effect.
While some consumers associate the sensation as proof of efficacy, Kim Fernandez, business development manager for CarnoSyn Brands, explained that paresthesia can also deter a broader range of users, particularly women, older adults and first-time supplement users.
“That sensory feeling, like that tingling feeling…it can be really polarizing for a lot of people,” she said. “While some more experienced users may associate it with efficacy, newer or wellness -oriented consumers find it distracting and uncomfortable. So while women are an important and fast-growing segment of our category, this enhancement is really about expanding beta-alanine beyond the hardcore pre-workout [users]. We’re expanding into a broader wellness and active lifestyle and women are certainly a huge part of our market.”
She added that the broader wellness and sports nutrition is evolving into a more inclusive market focused on everyday performance, recovery and longevity, opening opportunities for ingredients that easily fit into daily routines.
One common misconception about beta-alanine is that it should only be taken before workouts, Fernandez said. However, consistent daily use is necessary to support carnosine synthesis in the body. She added that CarnoSyn 4X aims to improve adherence by eliminating the sensory effect that can discourage use outside of the gym.
The conversation also explored the ingredient’s “4X” bioavailability claim, which stems from a proprietary hydro-oleo delivery technology designed to improve absorption at lower doses.
“What this does is this translates into more flexibility for brands, faster uptake potential, improved formulation efficiency and the ability to achieve performance outcomes with potentially lower or more consumer-friendly serving sizes,” She said. “It opens up a whole new delivery formats that were previously challenging due to sensory or dosage constraints.”
This allows brands greater formulation flexibility across gummies, chewables, hydration products, active aging supplements and medical nutrition applications, Fernandez said.
Looking ahead, Fernandez said the future of sports nutrition will continue to be more personalized, with formulations tailored to the unique needs of women, healthy aging consumers and everyday fitness users. As the lines between sports performance, active nutrition and longevity continue to blur, the company has its sights set on expanding research, delivery systems and real-world applications for beta-alanine beyond traditional pre-workout products.
To hear more about the future of tingling-free beta-alanine and how the ingredient could expand into wellness, healthy aging and active nutrition applications, listen to the NutraCast above or on your preferred podcast platform.
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