Asia Sherman

Can supplements protect against UV-induced skin damage?

The effects of creatine consumption on energy metabolism are well established, but could it affect appetite as well? Researchers from the Applied Bioenergetics Lab at the University of Novi Sad in Serbia drew on data from a nationally representative U.S. population to investigate the potential relationship between higher dietary creatine and lower levels of leptin, a hormone involved in appetite regulation.

A new study from ergothioneine supplier Blue California suggests that supplementation with its ErgoActive ingredient leads to dose-dependent improvements in subjective memory and sleep in healthy older adults.

While folate’s role in supporting fetal growth and development is well established, a new Stanford-led study suggests it may also help slow biological aging in older adults.

Researchers from the University of Novi Sad conducted a study on the effects of low-dose creatine hydrochloride and ethyl ester on perimenopausal and menopausal women, focusing on cognitive function and metabolic changes. The study, funded by Vireo Systems and Serbia's Provincial Secretariat, found that an eight-week regimen of creatine hydrochloride, with or without creatine ethyl ester, improved cognition, increased brain creatine levels, and modulated serum lipid profiles without significant side effects.

A review led by GNC highlights the importance of dietary supplements for users of GLP-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs), suggesting that supplements can enhance treatment outcomes and address side effects such as nutrient deficiencies and muscle mass loss. The researchers, advocating for a shift from adequate to optimal nutrient intake, propose multivitamins, vitamin D, omega-3s, proteins, and probiotics as potential supplements to support long-term health during GLP-1RA treatment and call for future efficacy and safety studies.

Recent studies highlight the potential of various supplements and dietary interventions in weight management. Creatine may influence appetite regulation by lowering leptin levels, while a novel bacterium in rice shows promise for reducing cholesterol and body weight. A new Gut Microbiome Obesity Index offers a functional approach to understanding gut bacteria's role in obesity, and prebiotics like inulin and fructooligosaccharides demonstrate varied effects depending on body weight. Additional research suggests black ginger extract can reduce body fat, and SlimBiome supports appetite regulation through natural gut hormone stimulation. Consumer perception studies indicate probiotics may alleviate digestive discomfort associated with GLP-1 medications, aiding adherence to weight management treatments.

The FDA is enhancing its inspection processes in the dietary supplement industry, focusing on compliance and self-regulation to improve food safety. New initiatives include the use of AI for data analysis and unannounced inspections, along with a push for transparency in ingredient safety. The agency is also considering reforms to the GRAS rule to close existing loopholes, while industry experts discuss potential impacts on innovation and regulatory processes.

The team behind the XPO NRG drink, the collaborative concept beverage that swept the SupplySide show floor in Las Vegas last year is back with a brand-new invention for this year’s SupplySide Global ingredient trade show.

SuppCo has launched the TESTED by SuppCo program to set a new standard for transparency and accountability in the supplement industry, building on its previous TrustScore rating system. The program aims to address the prevalent issue of inaccurate supplement labeling, as evidenced by SuppCo's findings that over 50% of top-selling supplements tested failed label accuracy standards. The initiative partners with brands like Momentous, Thorne, and Gaia Herbs, and involves independent testing through ISO 17025–accredited labs, with certified products required to meet or exceed 95% of their labeled active ingredients. All testing results are public, and products are retested annually, with non-compliant items undergoing remediation.