Cognitive function

Spermidine supplements may boost cognitive performance: Human data

08-Sep-2021 By Stephen Daniells

Oral supplementation with spermidine may boost cognitive performance in older people, with the most pronounced effects observed in those with mild dementia, says a new study from Austria.

News in brief

Bionap self-affirms GRAS status for standardized grape extract

07-Sep-2021

Italy’s Bionap Bioactive Natural Products has announced it has self-affirmed the GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status of its CogniGrape standardized grape extract for use as a source of dietary polyphenols and/or as an antioxidant for use in food...

“Positive associations” found between vitamin D and cognition in elderly

07-Sep-2021 By Lynda Searby

A new study provides a starting point for developing RNIs (Reference Nutrient Intakes) for vitamin D and cognitive performance.

Research finds faecal markers assist in Alzheimer's diagnosis

02-Sep-2021 By Nikki Hancocks

Alzheimer's Disease is characterised by 15 altered gut bacterial genera, suggesting that faecal markers might be used as a non-invasive examination to assist with disease diagnosis, new research has concluded.

Study: Blackcurrant extract improves exercise recovery

31-Aug-2021 By Nikki Hancocks

Consumption of New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) extract prior to and following exercise reduces muscle damage and improves functional recovery, according to a new study from the University of Surrey.

Immunity and toddler formula: APAC parents leading the way in prioritising immune health - Survey

31-Aug-2021 By Guan Yu Lim

Mothers in Asia-Pacific are prioritising immune health benefits when selecting toddler formulas, more so than their peers from the US, according to new data.

Citicoline supplementation shown to improve memory in older adults – Kyowa Hakko Bio-funded 12-week RCT

26-Aug-2021 By Tingmin Koe

The supplementation of citicoline has shown to significantly improve episodic and overall memory in older adults, according to a 12-week RCT funded by Kyowa Hakko Bio.

Poor nutrition a risk factor for cognitive decline & dementia, says KCL team

24-Aug-2021 By Will Chu

More evidence of a protective link between nutrients and the onset of dementia was published this week as researchers identify nutrition’s role in reducing the risk of cognitive decline (CD).

Study: Lactobacillus plantarum reduces depression and improves sleep in insomniacs

23-Aug-2021 By Nikki Hancocks

A study involving 40 insomniacs has found that daily administration of the probiotic Lactobacillus plantarum PS128 can reduce depressive symptoms, fatigue, cortical excitation, and improve sleep quality.

Review supports probiotic benefits for Multiple Sclerosis patients

23-Aug-2021 By Will Chu

Probiotic supplementation can slow down the progression of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), suppress associated depression, and improve the general health of patients, a review of relevant literature concludes.

Study finds probiotic helps subjects keep calm in face of stress

18-Aug-2021 By Hank Schultz

A study has found that a probiotic strain lessened stress among young Japanese men taking a validated test as measured by an endocrine system response.

New research will place D-ribose atop ‘mitochondrial health’ pyramid, expert says

17-Aug-2021 By Hank Schultz

Thirty years after the launch of Bioenergy Ribose, the ingredient’s manufacturer says new research is expanding the view of its effects in the cell. This could lead to a new ‘mitochondrial health’ category, with D-ribose as one of the key players, a...

Fermentalg enters crowded omega-3 rich microalgae oil arena with Novel Food approval

13-Aug-2021 By Will Chu

Fermentalg is celebrating the news that its microalgae derived, omega-3 rich Schizochytrium sp. oil is permitted for use as a novel food in food supplements, infant and follow-on formula.

FMTs now implicated in reversal of brain ageing and cognitive decline

10-Aug-2021 By Will Chu

Faecal Microbial Transplants (FMT) could reverse ageing-related brain deterioration and cognitive function, say researchers who identify the microbiome as a viable target in promoting healthy ageing.

Mintel: How to make it in the mindful market

10-Aug-2021 By Nikki Hancocks

Tapping into the rising consumer interest in mental health is about so much more than adding some magnesium to the mix so brands that want to win in this space will need to offer a value proposition through much more than just their products.

Study finds probiotic alleviates depression and improves sleep

05-Aug-2021 By Nikki Hancocks

New research has found a probiotic supplement to be helpful in alleviating symptoms of depression and anxiety as well as improving sleep quality in healthy adults.

New prebiotic supplement improves sleep, study finds

29-Jul-2021 By Nikki Hancocks

A new study by FrieslandCampina Ingredients has demonstrated the benefits of its gut health focused supplement in reducing stress and providing a better night’s sleep in healthy adults.

New epilepsy supplement shows good tolerance and reduces seizures

28-Jul-2021 By Natasha Spencer

Researchers have completed the first clinical trial of a new dietary treatment based on the ketogenic diet for children and adults with severe forms of epilepsy.

Guest Article

The gut's impact on a good night's sleep

27-Jul-2021 By Guus Kortman, Gut Microbiologist, and Andrei Prodan, Data Scientist at Nizo

With sleep being rated as a top health priority for consumers across the globe in 2021, NutraIngredients speaks to an expert about the research linking the gut microbiome to this health goal.

Research reveals Gen Zs want healthy snacks that prioritise their mental health instead of calories

27-Jul-2021 By Gill Hyslop

Research commissioned by EIT Food has found that young Europeans want an overhaul of how they access, discuss and learn about healthy food.

CBD research progresses understanding of entourage effect

26-Jul-2021 By Natasha Spencer

A new study has found evidence to support the 'entourage effect' and highlight the potential therapeutic effects of cannabidiolic acid (CBDA).

Patients in ICU do better with more CoQ10, study suggests

22-Jul-2021 By Hank Schultz

A new study suggests that higher blood levels of CoQ10 could improve outcomes for patients treated for severe trauma.

Azelis expands EU nutraceutical offerings with Quimdis purchase

22-Jul-2021 By Will Chu

Food ingredients firm Azelis has moved to purchase Quimdis, a French distributor of ingredients for flavours & fragrances, pharma and food, in a move designed to expand its nutraceutical offerings.

Review suggests vitamin K2 may help prevent Alzheimer’s

19-Jul-2021 By Nicola Gordon-Seymour

A comprehensive review of evidence suggests vitamin K2 can help prevent Alzheimer’s disease

Curcumin extract’s superior bioavailability unlocks more health benefits, study concludes

16-Jul-2021 By Nicola Gordon-Seymour

Curcugen curcumin extract significantly enhances the bioavailability of free curcumins making their therapeutic benefits more accessible, according to research

Sleep and sprout: Broccoli extract increases melatonin in Japanese adults experiencing poor sleep - Trial

13-Jul-2021 By Guan Yu Lim

Consumption of broccoli sprout extract increased melatonin production and may enhance sleep quality among Japanese adults, according to a study conducted by Kagome.

NEWS IN BRIEF

Calanus rebrands as Zooca

12-Jul-2021 By Will Chu

Norwegian biomarine company Calanus is to rebrand under the new name ‘Zooca’ in a move designed to strengthen product identity as part of the firm’s expansion plans into other regions.

Healthy ageing and nutrition takes centre stage in UK’s Life Sciences Vision

09-Jul-2021 By Will Chu

Healthy ageing and the role nutrition plays are amongst seven ‘critical healthcare missions’ that form the UK Government’s Life Sciences Vision and the 10-year strategy it intends to implement.

Formula for success? More children and student formulas launched in China amid shrinking birth rates

05-Jul-2021 By Tingmin Koe

Milk formulas for children and young teens are gaining traction in China, with both local and foreign companies rushing to compete in this emerging market.

Omega-3 rich diet may aid in reducing migraine-linked headaches, study finds

02-Jul-2021 By Will Chu

A diet rich in omega 3 (n-3) fatty acids could reduce the number of headaches in those suffering from migraines, a study states, as researchers points to related molecules that aid in alleviating pain.

Multi-component supplement may ease negative impacts of stress: RCT

01-Jul-2021 By Stephen Daniells

A combination of magnesium with vitamins B6, B9, and B12 plus extracts from rhodiola and green tea may promote a relaxed state and reduce stress perception, says a new study from Europe.

Milk protein may act as effective delivery vehicle for blueberry nutrients

01-Jul-2021 By Will Chu

A protein found in cow’s milk, may help boost the accessibility of nutrients found in blueberry anthocyanins and their by-products, according to a group of China-based researchers.

Podcast: Dr Andrew Scholey on consulting and contributing to cognitive health

30-Jun-2021 By Will Chu

In the second of NutraIngredients’ focus on cognitive health, Dr Andrew Scholey took time out to discuss his thoughts on the sector and its impact in sports nutrition, esports and where the gut microbiome fits in.

Private Equity group Siparex takes minority stake in Pharmactive

28-Jun-2021 By Danielle Masterson

The French PE group will help ramp up the biotech firm’s plans for rapid growth and expansion.

Omega-3 oil’s anti-inflammatory effects may aid in addressing depression, study says

18-Jun-2021 By Will Chu

Research looking into omega-3 fatty acids’ anti-inflammatory effects has been hailed as an ‘important contribution’ for patients with depression to receive targeted mechanistically based treatment.

AESAN calls for regulatory clarity on energy drink formulation

16-Jun-2021 By Will Chu

Spain’s Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) has reiterated advice to reduce energy drink consumption especially among minors due to caffeine’s effect on sleep and the cardiovascular system.

'A defining moment for the industry': DSM enters CBD space with Mile High Labs partnership

15-Jun-2021 By Stephen Daniells

Royal DSM has entered into a broad commercial partnership with Colorado-based cannabinoid company Mile High Labs (MHL) for next generation science-backed cannabinoid solutions.

Study: Olive oil extract offers potential Parkinson's protection using nanocarriers

11-Jun-2021 By Nikki Hancocks

Using a nanocarrier delivery system, the olive oil-derived extract Hydroxytyrosol can act as a protective agent against Parkinson’s-related neurodegeneration, according to a new study from the Centre for Nutraceuticals, University of Westminster.

Study: Vitamin D levels associated with depressive symptoms

10-Jun-2021 By Nikki Hancocks

A large community sample study has found vitamin D levels are associated with depressive symptomatology due to the vitamin's impact on three specific inflammatory markers.

Premier League footballers in academia team up to launch sports supplements

09-Jun-2021 By Will Chu

Ex-Premier League footballers Mathieu Flamini and Mesut Ozil have teamed up with the University of Westminster to launch a new range of sports-focused supplements under their brand UNITY.

Nutritional supplement shows promise for those with ASD: Study

07-Jun-2021 By Danielle Masterson

A new survey on the nutritional blend IQed found the product may be beneficial for those with autism, apraxia and other conditions involving motor and speech delays.

Uni graduates launch nootropic supplements for health-focused gamers

07-Jun-2021 By Nikki Hancocks

Two young esports enthusiasts have launched an all-natural nootropic supplements brand for competitive gamers after graduating from university just as the pandemic lockdown and recession hit.

Brain injury negatively alters faecal microbiome, says study

07-Jun-2021 By Will Chu

More evidence of how neurological damage could impact the gut-brain axis has come to light as researchers have linked alterations to the faecal microbiome to Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

Opportunities and challenges in mental health advocacy

28-May-2021 By Nikki Hancocks

Cognitive health is a concern for all consumers, from the working mum to the elite athlete, and nootropics are a trending natural solution for those looking to supplement their cognitive energy.

Launch Pad: May says bye to immune support and hello to hydration, healthy skin and energy

27-May-2021 By Danielle Masterson

The month of May generated an assortment of ingredients and formats, from protein bars that add inches to Ayurvedic-inspired coffee.

COVID-19 IBS improvement reaffirms gut-brain link

24-May-2021 By Nikki Hancocks

Patients' irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms improved when they were in lockdown, reaffirming the gut-brain connection in functional gastrointestinal disorders, according to research presentated at Digestive Disease Week (May 21-23).

Progress Biotech receives EU thumbs-up for algal oil use in infant formula

19-May-2021 By Will Chu

Progress Biotech has received EU approval for the use of its high docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) algal oil in infant formula in a move that meets demand for sustainable vegan-based ingredients along with DHA’s known health benefits.

2021 NutraIngredients Awards: Winners announced!

13-May-2021 By Nikki Hancocks

The winners of the hotly contended 2021 NutraIngredients Awards were revealed in an online awards ceremony yesterday (May 12).

Novel study confirms link between specific bacteria and neurodegenerative diseases

10-May-2021 By Danielle Masterson

Researchers may be one step closer in solving a burning question that has plagued the scientific and medical community—what causes neurodegenerative disease?