Tag: EW diet and health

A study funded by Nutricia, a Danone brand, indicates that the use of plant-based oral nutritional supplements (ONS) could significantly improve the dietary outcomes of patients at risk of malnutrition. The research revealed that after 28 days of consuming Fortisip PlantBased ONS, participants showed increased intake of total energy, protein, and micronutrients. Additionally, a decrease in malnutrition risk was reported along with increased body weight and BMI. Researchers advocate for the inclusion of plant-based ONS options in clinical practice given these positive outcomes.

At the recent Free From Food fair in Amsterdam, Döhler – a food ingredient supplier – showcased ‘natural superheroes,’ focusing on a five-key functionality concept in food: immunity, energy, gut health, relaxation, and mental health. The company launched a gut health concept – probiotic cultures in fruit form – and probiotic chia seeds. Another exhibitor, Mellifera from Bulgaria, presented an organic honey energy gel, a healthier alternative to regular energy gels, aimed initially at athletes.

Researchers from the University of Texas have found that Caffeic-Acid Carbon Quantum Dots (CACQDs) from used coffee grounds may protect brain cells from damage caused by neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and Huntington’s. The caffeic acid in CACQDs can penetrate the blood-brain barrier, potentially preventing free radical damage. These findings could lead to the development of preventative treatments for neurodegenerative disorders spurred by non-genetic factors.

Planteneers showcased a collection of plant-based food alternatives at the Plant Based World Expo Europe, including meat, fish, and dairy substitutes. The products utilise high moisture extrudate and compounds made from pea and fava bean proteins. Speaking about sector trends, Dr. Pia Meinlschmidt mentioned interest in using such ingredients as alternatives to soy-based meat products and the drive towards removing methylcellulose from food formulations. The company’s innovations integrate into existing production lines, making product development easier and cheaper for their customers.

Food and beverage multinational Danone has developed a baby formula that closely resembles the structure, size, and composition of lipid globules in breast milk. The Mercurius study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, showed that it results in similar growth patterns and impacts long-term health close to breastfeeding, affecting factors such as body mass index (BMI) and blood pressure. The formula, delivering cognitive performance equal to breastmilk, represents a breakthrough in infant nutrition.

On World Diabetes Day, Beneo highlights the importance of understanding the risk of type 2 diabetes and the role of diet in its prevention or delay. Research conducted by Beneo confirms the health benefits of its slow-release carbohydrate, Palatinose, and the prebiotic fiber Orafti Synergy1 in blood glucose management. Beneo’s recent study also showed that these ingredients, when incorporated into regular diets, facilitated better blood sugar control and improved gut microbiota.

Although it is commonly believed that artificial sweeteners like aspartame do not raise insulin levels in the same way as sugar, a new clinical trial

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has launched a data-driven dietary impact assessment tool (DIA) that helps policymakers, researchers, and practitioners examine the health and environmental consequences of diets. The tool, which will debut at the upcoming COP28 conference, aims to curb unhealthy diets, a leading risk factor for noncommunicable diseases. It uses up-to-date data on health and environmental indicators to generate scenarios and inform policy development. The DIA is expected to help countries design sustainable, impactful, and data-driven policies customized to their populations.

Biotechnological and natural ingredient advances are driving innovation in pain relief. Gencor and Arjuna Naturals are offering solutions with improved bioavailability through technologies such as LipiSperse and SpeedTech, which enhance the effectiveness of ingredients like curcumin and PEA. The companies are responding to high demand for natural alternatives to synthetic pharmaceuticals, providing products that not only address different types of pain but also promote overall health and well-being.

Sifter Solutions’ new smartphone application, Sifter Scan By Diet, allows consumers to match grocery products to their personal dietary needs by setting a personal diet profile and scanning food packaging. The service caters to the growing market demand for specific dietary needs, especially among Gen Z and millennials, and seeks to enhance the shopping experience for nutrition-focused customers. The technology is seen as beneficial for professionals like dietitians and nutritionists, and is positioned to support the retail grocery and health markets.

An online survey revealed that frequent melatonin use among U.S. children is “exceedingly common”, yet studies on the hormone’s long-term effects are scarce. The Council for Responsible Nutrition asserts that the survey data, suggesting substantial pediatric use of melatonin, are irrelevant and flawed. While melatonin isn’t necessarily harmful, more research is needed on its effects on development, especially since the supplement’s regulation is loose.

A study observes a 12.1% fall in child hospital admissions for tooth extraction due to dental caries following the implementation of the UK soft drinks sugar tax. The greatest reductions were seen in children up to four years old (-28.6%) and those aged 5-9 (-5.5%). The study, which used data from 2014 to 2020, estimates a reduction of 5,638 cases per year. Despite this, no changes were observed in rates among children aged 10-18. The sugar tax, encouraging manufacturers to lower sugar content, might have influenced these outcomes.

New research suggests that reducing calorie and fat intake can largely decrease fatigue in multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. The 16-week randomized trial revealed that patients who reduced their daily calorie intake by 19% experienced significantly lower fatigue levels. Given that there’s currently no FDA-approved drug for fatigue in MS, the study proposes such nutritional adjustments to improve patients’ quality of life.

Consumers increasingly seek holistic health solutions through supplements that support both physical and mental well-being. The industry, according to experts, is responding with ingredients and formats that improve sleep, reduce stress, and aid healthy aging, among many other benefits. However, they emphasize the need to improve nutrient absorption for better efficiency. Experts also note the growing intersection between beauty and nutrition, as well as a rise in products for stress management and healthy aging.