OEA to help maintain a healthy microbiome

A human clinical trial published in Gut Microbes Reports evaluated Trpti, Saanroo’s bioavailable form of oleoylethanolamide (OEA), in 57 overweight adults with a BMI of 30–40 kg/m². In the randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, participants received either 300 mg/day of Trpti or a placebo for 12 weeks. Researchers reported that Trpti selectively targeted beneficial bacteria while maintaining overall microbiome stability. Supplementation significantly increased the abundance of Akkermansia muciniphila and Faecalibacterium prausnitzii compared with placebo. The study also found a statistically significant reduction in body weight among participants with a BMI below 35, compared with placebo, and observed an upward trend in GLP-1 concentrations at both six and 12 weeks.

The study further found that Trpti promoted an early positive immune response, with increased IL-2 and reduced IL-1β at week six, followed by improvements in gut barrier integrity markers, including increased circulating occludin at week 12.

“This study demonstrates that supplementation with Trpti, Saanroo’s bioavailable form of OEA, helps maintain a healthy microbiome,” said Ramasamy Venkatesh, Managing Director at Saanroo/Gencor Pacific. Venkatesh noted that Trpti supplementation enriched beneficial bacterial species linked to gut barrier function, metabolic health, and anti-inflammatory activity, while promoting a more favorable gut microbiome profile and maintaining safety and tolerability.

Beetroot extract for muscle health in postmenopausal women

Sabinsa shared news of a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial in Nutrients evaluating Sabeet, a nitrate-rich beetroot extract, in postmenopausal women. The 12-week study assessed daily supplementation with a standardized dose providing 548 mg nitrate/day in women aged 60–85. Researchers reported statistically significant improvements in morphological muscle quality, measured by ultrasound echo intensity, in the Sabeet group compared with placebo. Participants receiving Sabeet also showed marked increases in early- and late-phase rate of force development (RFD), indicating improved neuromuscular performance and enhanced ability to generate force rapidly.

The study additionally confirmed significant increases in circulating nitrate and nitrite levels in the Sabeet group at both 8 and 12 weeks, supporting enhanced nitric oxide bioavailability. “Sabeet was specifically developed to deliver standardized, meaningful levels of dietary nitrate, and this 12-week trial shows that commitment translating into real, tangible benefits for women navigating the muscle health challenges of menopause,” said Shaheen Majeed, Global CEO and Managing Director of Sabinsa. Majeed added that improvements in muscle composition and neuromuscular speed highlight the ingredient’s relevance for supporting mobility, balance, and functional independence in postmenopausal women.

Lactotripeptides to improve pump, lean mass, fatigue & motivation

A double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study published in the Journal of Exercise and Nutrition found that daily supplementation with lactotripeptides (IPP and VPP), bioactive peptides derived from casein hydrolysate, produced measurable improvements in muscle pump, body composition, fatigue, and training motivation. Conducted by Asahi Group Foods, Ltd., the four-week trial evaluated 34 healthy men ages 20-49 who were engaged in regular training and supplemented with either 3.4 mg of lactotripeptides, 1.7 mg of lactotripeptides, or a placebo while maintaining their existing exercise routines. Participants receiving 3.4 mg daily experienced statistically significant increases in thigh circumference after exercise, body weight, BMI, lean body mass, and thigh circumference before exercise compared with baseline and, in some cases, placebo. Those taking 1.7 mg daily also reported subjective improvements in muscle pump during exercise.

The study further found that participants supplementing with 3.4 mg of lactotripeptides experienced significant improvements in fatigue scores and morning-after motivation compared with placebo. No adverse events were reported, and bloodwork and urine analyses supported the ingredient’s safety profile.

“Food derived peptides, such as lactotripeptides, are a unique contributor to nitric oxide production resulting in healthy blood flow, stamina, lean muscle growth, and motivation,” said Abhijit Natu, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Maypro. Natu added that Maypro’s lactotripeptide ingredient, VasoDrive-AP, is a clinically validated ingredient that can be easily incorporated into formulations while delivering measurable performance benefits.

Postbiotic for facial skin elasticity

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found that daily supplementation with the postbiotic Latilactobacillus sakei KABP-065 improved measures of skin health in healthy women ages 30-50 with concerns about dry facial skin. The study enrolled 50 participants who received either heat-treated L. sakei KABP-065 or a placebo for eight weeks. Researchers reported that women receiving the postbiotic showed significantly greater improvements in facial skin elasticity and firmness compared with baseline than those in the placebo group after five weeks of supplementation. Skin elasticity and moisture were evaluated using clinically validated dermatological methods, including cutometer readings, stratum corneum water content, and transepidermal water loss measurements.

A sub-analysis of participants in their 40s showed more pronounced effects. Women in this age group receiving L. sakei KABP-065 demonstrated significant improvements in skin recovery rate, net elasticity, and firmness compared with baseline after five weeks, with improvements in skin recovery rate and firmness remaining significant after eight weeks. The subgroup also experienced significantly greater increases in skin moisture after five weeks, with a similar trend observed at eight weeks.

“These findings highlight the potential of L. sakei KABP-065, marketed as L. sakei proBio65, to support women navigating age-related skin changes through oral supplementation,” said Jordi Riera, Chief Business Officer at Kaneka Probiotics. Riera added that researchers observed significant improvements in skin elasticity and, among participants in their 40s, skin moisture.

Probiotic for urinary health

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled pilot study published in Microorganisms evaluated the effects of Limosilactobacillus reuteri 3613-1, identified by and available through Evolved Probiotics from the Arm & Hammer brand, on recurrence of uncomplicated symptomatic urinary tract infections (UTIs) in 130 women aged 18–65. Conducted by Atlantia Clinical Trials over six months, the study assessed whether supplementation could delay the onset of the first UTI. Researchers found that L. reuteri 3613-1 delayed the onset of the first UTI, with statistical significance observed in participants with suspected but unconfirmed UTIs, along with confirmed reuterin production.

The study also referenced prior in vitro research showing antimicrobial activity of the strain, including inhibition of Escherichia coli and superior inhibition of Gardnerella vaginalis and Candida albicans compared with other L. reuteri strains. “While urinary tract infections are unfortunately common and recurring among women of reproductive age, we continue to see probiotics as an effective strategy in promoting urogenital wellness,” said Amy Wescott, Operations Manager at ARM & HAMMER Performance Products and co-author of the published article. Wescott added that Evolved Probiotics is focused on addressing consumer demand for alternative health strategies rooted in the ARM & HAMMER brand legacy.

K2 to support neuromuscular activation and signaling

Findings from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise suggest that vitamin K2 MK-7 may support neuromuscular signaling in older adults. The study evaluated Balchem’s K2VITAL ingredient, providing 240 μg/day of vitamin K2 MK-7 over 12 weeks in 71 healthy participants, including 35 younger adults (18–40 years) and 36 older adults (65+ years). Participants completed a resistance exercise protocol before and after supplementation, with assessments of muscle strength, soreness, function, and biomarkers of muscle damage and inflammation. While no significant effects were observed in the full study population, subgroup analysis indicated age-specific responses among older adults.

In participants aged 65 and older, supplementation with vitamin K2 MK-7 was associated with improved neuromuscular signaling, which supports nerve–muscle communication involved in muscle control after exercise. These effects were not observed in the placebo group or the younger cohort. “We’re proud to have supported this investigation by providing our patented, typically 99.7% all-trans K2 MK-7 ingredient, K2VITAL, for the study,” said Dominik Mattern, VP Science, Business Development and Marketing, Balchem Human Nutrition and Health. Mattern noted that vitamin K2 is already recognized for cardiovascular and bone health, and that the findings support further research into its role in healthy aging.

Black seed oil for stress resilience

TriNutra announced the publication of a new randomized, placebo-controlled human clinical study evaluating its patented ingredient ThymoQuin, a vertically integrated, standardized cold-pressed Nigella sativa oil, for stress resilience in moderately stressed adults. The 8-week study examined the effects of ThymoQuin on cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), sleep quality, mood, and related stress physiology markers. Results showed a 23% reduction in cortisol, a 10% increase in DHEA, a 29% improvement in the DHEA ratio, enhanced vigor, and a 31% improvement in sleep quality, indicating coordinated changes across multiple stress-related endpoints.

The study also introduced the Stress Resilience Index (SRI), a composite measure designed to assess multi-system adaptation across endocrine, psychological, and sleep domains. “What makes this study so compelling is that ThymoQuin demonstrated a coordinated effect across cortisol balance, adrenal function, sleep, and perceived energy,” said Morris Zelkha, CEO of TriNutra. Zelkha added that these findings build on prior research supporting ThymoQuin’s role in cortisol balance and stress management, positioning the ingredient as a multi-system solution for modern stress challenges.

Consumer perceptions of regenerative agriculture

New proprietary research from ADM suggests consumer awareness of regenerative agriculture is growing, with familiarity around techniques such as cover crops becoming increasingly common. The study found that purchase intent increases when consumers are educated about the tangible benefits of regenerative agriculture, with younger demographics showing particular interest in supporting products that demonstrate a measurable commitment to regenerative practices. Researchers also found that most consumers view regenerative agriculture positively, citing benefits for the planet, farmers, and future generations.

The research further revealed that while exposure to regenerative agriculture messaging on product packaging remains limited, such messaging can strongly influence purchasing behavior. Consumers who encounter regenerative agriculture claims on-pack report being motivated to either purchase the product or learn more. “For brands, regenerative agriculture represents more than a sourcing story—it’s a chance to lead with purpose,” said Paula Labine, Sustainability Marketing Director at ADM, who managed the study. Labine added that brands that make the concept accessible and actionable can differentiate themselves and strengthen consumer loyalty as demand for transparency and authenticity grows.

Tocotrienols Outperform Tocopherols in Preventing Ferroptosis

Researchers from Tohoku University, Japan, reported in Scientific Reports that tocotrienols, a form of vitamin E, demonstrated significantly stronger anti-ferroptotic activity than tocopherols across multiple experimental systems. Ferroptosis is a regulated form of cell death driven by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation and increasingly implicated in aging and age-related conditions.

Using human sarcoma HT-1080 cells and multiple ferroptosis models, the researchers found that tocotrienols suppressed ferroptosis at much lower concentrations than tocopherols and more effectively inhibited lipid peroxidation, the biochemical driver of ferroptosis. In GPX4-deficient ferroptosis models, tocotrienols inhibited ferroptosis with approximately 15-fold greater potency compared with tocopherols. The study also found that tocotrienols exhibited lower cellular cytotoxicity than commonly used experimental ferroptosis inhibitors at biologically effective concentrations.

“Not all forms of vitamin E are created equal,” said Dr. Ariati Aris, Scientific Affairs Specialist at PhytoGaia. “Tocotrienols exhibit superior antioxidant behaviour in the specific context of ferroptosis, suggesting they may play an important role in cellular protection than previously recognized.” Dr. Aris added that the findings support growing interest in tocotrienols for healthy aging, metabolic health, and oxidative stress management, while noting that further in-vivo and clinical studies are needed.

Partially hydrolysed whey protein ingredient for healthy growth

A clinical study evaluating infant formula containing Lacprodan IF-3070, a partially hydrolysed whey protein ingredient from Arla Foods Ingredients, found that it supported healthy growth with trajectories comparable to those of breastfed infants. The study enrolled 251 newborns under 14 days of age from six Chinese hospitals and randomized them to receive either a standard intact-protein formula or a formula containing approximately 40% Lacprodan IF-3070, with a breastfed group serving as a reference. After the six-month intervention, the difference in mean daily weight gain between the Lacprodan IF-3070 group and the breastfed group was 0.4 g per day, compared with 1.1 g per day between the standard formula group and the breastfed group.

The study also found that Lacprodan IF-3070 was well tolerated. No significant differences were observed in the incidence of adverse events, including gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory diseases, or general disorders, between the Lacprodan IF-3070 group and the breastfed group. By contrast, the incidence of gastrointestinal disorders was significantly higher in the standard formula group than in the breastfed group.

“Healthy growth is one of the main benefits influencing infant formula purchases, and a particular focus in the Chinese market,” said Lotte Neergaard Jacobsen, Chief Scientist, Early Life Nutrition, at Arla Foods Ingredients. Jacobsen added that the company was pleased that the first clinical study on Lacprodan IF-3070 confirmed that it supports healthy growth.

Low-dose ashwagandha root extract for stress relief

A peer-reviewed clinical study published in Medicine found that Prolanza (Ashwanova in certain markets), a sustained-release ashwagandha root extract from Nutriventia, was effective in managing stress symptoms in healthy adults reporting moderate stress. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial enrolled 135 adults ages 20-55 who received either 150 mg or 300 mg of Prolanza or a placebo once daily for 60 days. Both the 150 mg and 300 mg doses resulted in significant reductions in Perceived Stress Scale scores, decreasing stress levels by 38.6% and 41.6%, respectively, compared with placebo. Participants in both treatment groups also reported significant improvements in sleep quality, happiness levels, and eating behaviors related to stress.

The study further found that the 300 mg dose significantly reduced serum cortisol levels by day 60, while both doses were well tolerated with no safety concerns reported. “Building on our commitment to delivering scientifically validated, consumer-friendly nutraceuticals, this study demonstrates that even a low daily dose of Prolanza (150 mg) can significantly reduce perceived stress, while also improving sleep quality, feelings of happiness, and eating behaviors,” said Rajat Mittal Shah, Co-founder of Nutriventia. Shah added that the sustained-release formulation offers a convenient once-daily regimen intended to support compliance without compromising efficacy.

Prebiotic for gut & immune health in athletes

Clasado Biosciences announced the publication of a peer-reviewed clinical study in Experimental Physiology evaluating Bimuno GOS, a prebiotic ingredient, for gut and immune health in athletes. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted over six weeks at Nottingham Trent University and included healthy male athletes who consumed 2.75 g of active GOS daily while undergoing simulated football match conditions in the heat. Researchers found that supplementation with Bimuno GOS improved gut barrier integrity and reduced the severity of gastrointestinal symptoms compared with placebo. The study also reported significantly shorter and less severe upper respiratory symptom episodes in the Bimuno GOS group.

Key biomarker findings included a 38% reduction in pre-post change in I-FABP, indicating reduced gut barrier damage, as well as increased salivary IgA after exercise in the Bimuno GOS group, while levels decreased in the placebo group. “The findings build on the emerging picture of how prebiotics can influence athlete health and performance,” said Dr Neil Williams, Senior Lecturer at Nottingham Trent University and Lead Investigator. Williams noted that supporting gut barrier integrity and immune responses under physical stress may help reduce gastrointestinal and immune-related issues in athletes.

Saw palmetto extract for hair health

Two newly published peer-reviewed clinical studies evaluated Serevelle, a proprietary bioactive fatty acid ingredient derived from saw palmetto and developed by Valensa International for hair health. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial in women and men with self-perceived thinning hair, participants taking Serevelle showed a 12.8-times greater increase in hair density and fuller scalp coverage, a 7.8-times greater increase in healthy, thicker hairs, a six-times greater increase in new hair growth and follicle reactivation, and a 30% reduction in hair shedding versus baseline after 90 days.

“This is one of the most well-designed clinical studies and demonstrated the powerful impact of a single natural ingredient (Serevelle) to significantly increase new hair growth, reduce shedding, and promote healthy, thicker hair,” said study author Dr. Glynis Ablon, Director of the Ablon Skin Institute & Research Center.

A second peer-reviewed publication reported results after 180 days, finding a fourfold increase in healthy, thicker hairs, a fivefold increase in new hair growth and follicle reactivation, and a fourfold increase in visibly denser scalp coverage compared with placebo. Additional outcomes included improvements in hair width and follicular units. In a subgroup analysis, menopausal women experienced increased active hair follicles, two-times greater new hair growth in problematic areas, fourfold increases in healthy, thicker hairs, and threefold greater hair density and scalp coverage compared with placebo. Similar analyses in men showed statistically significant hair growth across all hair types. “These subgroup findings point to the potential for differentiated solutions tailored to menopausal women, and men, all anchored in the same core ingredient and dose,” Ablon said.

Bacopa for emotional wellness & restorative sleep

Samriddh Nutractive Pvt. Ltd. announced findings from a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluating B-Lit Bacopa, a Bacopa monnieri extract standardized to 30% total bacosides, in 50 healthy adults experiencing non-chronic stress. Over the 12-week study, participants receiving B-Lit Bacopa once daily experienced significant reductions in perceived stress as early as two weeks compared with placebo. Sleep quality improved significantly by week three and continued to improve throughout the study, with benefits reported to be up to seven times greater than placebo by the end of the trial. Participants taking B-Lit Bacopa also increased total sleep time by 27.6 minutes, while the placebo group experienced a 5.52-minute decrease in sleep duration.

The study also demonstrated significant reductions in serum cortisol levels among participants taking B-Lit Bacopa. The B-Lit Bacopa group showed a 4.10 µg/dL decrease in cortisol, while the placebo group experienced a slight increase. Safety analyses were also conducted as part of the trial. “This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study further validates B-Lit Bacopa for managing everyday stress and improving sleep quality,” said Aditya Jain, Founder and CEO of Samriddh. Jain added that the reductions in perceived stress and cortisol, along with improvements in sleep quality and duration, support B-Lit Bacopa as a solution for emotional wellness and restorative sleep.

Improving digestive health in children & older adults

Logical Square announced the completion of two new clinical studies evaluating its digestive health ingredient CaFi in pediatric and older adult populations. Across more than 200 participants, the studies demonstrated statistically significant improvements in bowel movement frequency, stool consistency, reduced straining, and overall gastrointestinal comfort. The research found that CaFi consistently improved key measures of bowel function while maintaining a favorable safety profile, with no clinically meaningful adverse effects reported.

The  studies also confirmed that CaFi was well tolerated and provided effective relief without the urgency, cramping, or discomfort commonly associated with senna-based products. A prior study similarly showed CaFi outperformed senna in tolerability without meaningful safety concerns. “This body of research highlights CaFi as a scientifically validated ingredient for digestive health support,” said Sanjay Tamoli, Ph.D., Vice President of Research & Development at Logical Square. Dr. Tamoli added that clinical data across multiple age groups and comparative findings versus senna support CaFi as a next-generation approach to maintaining regularity with improved tolerability.