Category Archives: Food Supplements

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 25% of infants are breastfed exclusively for the first six months despite research that shows most first-time mothers understand the importance of breastfeeding and intend to do it.

Among the top reasons women do not meet this benchmark is fear about producing insufficient milk a concern reported by 40% of 532 first-time mothers surveyed by researchers at UC Davis Medical Center -- and one which well-intentioned emerging and established food and beverage brand strive to ease with products designed to boost production.

Ranging from supplements, teas and shakes to cookies, crackers and other snacks packed with ingredients like fenugreek, flax, dates, oats and moringa leaf, many of these products offer nursing women convenience and empowerment by helping them feel more in control of their nutrition and like they are helping their children without burdening them with the extra work of preparing special foods while simultaneously navigating other additional responsibilities that come with parenting.

A significant challenge for players in this space, however, is managing costs and offering products at a price point that is accessible because if they are too expensive or out of reach for parents, they could harm, Kristi King, a registered pediatric dietitian at Texas Childrens Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine warned last week during the first part of FoodNavigator-USAs Food For Kids Summit.

[Editors note: If you missed our two-day, virtual Food For Kids Summit, you can still catch the event for free on demand by registering HERE.]

As these products become more and more available, whats going to be important is their price point. They have to be affordable to all parents, King said. We cant just exclude the lower socio-economic group, just because they cant afford it. Thats not fair to them. Thats not fair to their child.

Manufacturers in this space also must walk a fine line that encourages breastfeeding, but doesnt shame or discourage formula-feeding.

King explained that in her work with low-income parents, she sees women who feel shamed because they are not producing enough milk for their infants and they cannot afford supplements and other products that promise to boost their production.

Thats when I step in and say, Look, fed is better. You know. Breast is best, but fed is better. So, it does not matter if we are breastfeeding or formula feeding I just want to make sure that your child is getting nutrition, King said.

If parents can afford lactation-boosting products or want to change their diet to try and boost production, King said she is happy to work with them to see if they can increase supply but she also wants women to know that there is no shame in formula feeding.

Some of the shame associated with formula feeding also stems from misperceptions about the impact of formula on babies health in the short and long-term a challenge that some in the industry are working to overcome through education and product selection.

There is misinformation and some negative perceptions out there about formula, including fear that it contains too much sugar and could lead to obesity later in life or that it may contain genetically modified or other undesirable ingredients, Katina Langley, a registered dietitian and the medical science liaison for Reckitt/Meat Johnson Nutrition.

She explained during the Food For Kids panel discussion that at Mead Johnson Nutrition, infant formulas are designed to mimic or support similar outcomes to human breast milk, which naturally contains lactose as a key carbohydrate for growth and development.

As such, she said, standard infant formula typically will contain lactose, but that should not be confused with added sugars, which are in a completely different category and not what the Dietary Guidelines for Americans are referring to when they encourage caregivers to avoid giving sugar sweetened beverages to children under one year.

Similarly, she said, fomulas designed for special medical needs, such as lactose sensitivity, may contain other simple sugars or corn sugars which are not the same as high fructose corn syrup for ease of digestion, but again, its the primary source of carbohydrate for the infant.

What caregivers want to avoid giving infants is sucrose, which is table sugar, and could train children to gravitate towards highly sweet tastes that could be problematic later, she added.

As far as GMOs are concerned, Langley said that both the World Health Organization and the American Medical Association identify that there is an absence of evidence of negative effects of GMOs.

But, she added, for families who prefer non-GMO products, Mead Johnson offers Enfamil NueroPro non-GMO formula a move that underscores the importance of offering parents products that align with their childrens needs and families values to ensure that children gain the nutrition they need in a format that is right for them.

Continuing to offer a range of products that support childrens nutrition as they age is also why Mead Johnson Nutrition offers toddler nutrition drinks or toddler milks, like Enfagrow, which can be used as a snack, served in place of milk or incorporated into baked good and other foods to enhance nutrition.

Toddler milks have come under fire in recent years with those speaking out against it saying they are unnecessary, can lead to obesity and do not help children develop a diverse palate and healthy diet.

Langley argues, however, they are a useful tool in the right circumstances.

The consequence of poor nutrition during critical periods of growth and development can have lasting adverse effects, including developmental deficits. At 12 months, toddlers transition from breastmilk or formula to table food and beverages, which may mean a decline in nutrient intake if the diet is not varied. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends offering a variety of healthy foods as part of a balanced meal or snack. Some toddlers have unpredictable feeding behaviors, picky eating habits, or food refusal and risk inadequate nutrient intake and deficiencies. Picky-eating habits can be a normal part of development but may also make it difficult for the toddler to meet nutrient goals, she explained.

When this happens, toddler milks are one option to supplement childrens diet and can be used to bridge the nutrient gaps when the diet is not varied or extra energy and nutrients are needed, she added.

Read more:

Food For Kids highlights: As parents navigate early childhood nutrition, industry faces 'mommy-shaming' traps, misconceptions about breast- and...

Vitamins and minerals are micronutrients that are responsible for many life-sustaining biological processes. While most people can get enough from diet alone, others may need to take a supplement. However, to ensure safety, they should do so under the guidance of a doctor or registered dietitian.

Each vitamin and mineral plays a different role in bodily processes. For example, sodium and potassium are crucial for proper function of the central nervous system.

Consuming enough of the required vitamins and minerals is an essential part of eating a balanced diet.

Although a varied diet usually provides the micronutrients a person needs, some people with restrictive diets such as vegetarians, people with certain medical conditions, and older adults may need to take a supplement.

Read more to learn how much of each vitamin and mineral an individual should consume, which micronutrients are harmful when a person consumes them in excess, and what common deficiencies there are.

Each persons dietary needs will vary slightly, but it can be useful to have benchmark numbers for vitamin and mineral intake as a point of reference.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) sets out guidelines for the amounts of different vitamins and minerals an individual should consume per day. It uses recommended Daily Value (DV), which applies to most healthy people.

However, individual nutrient needs will vary depending on many factors. These may include a persons age, body weight, overall health, and whether they are pregnant or breastfeeding.

The FDA recommends that most healthy people consume the following amounts of vitamins:

The FDA recommends that most healthy people consume the following amounts of minerals:

While DV can be a useful starting point, it is not the only term experts use to describe how much of something an individual should consume.

Researchers, dietitians, manufacturers, and government bodies use different abbreviations. This can make reading nutritional labels challenging.

Below are common terms a person may encounter when reading food or supplement labels:

In most cases, people will not consume too much of a particular vitamin or mineral, especially when they are getting it from food.

Overconsumption usually happens when an individual takes a nutritional supplement. Vitamin and mineral toxicity is rare, and it only occurs when a person consumes a certain nutrient in very large amounts.

It is important to note that not all vitamins and minerals are harmful when a person consumes them in excess.

Water-soluble vitamins dissolve in water, so when a person consumes too much of these, the body usually gets rid of the excess in the urine. Vitamin C and B vitamins are all water-soluble.

However, fat-soluble vitamins dissolve in fat and oils. This means that fatty tissues and the liver store them, and they can build up over time. In some cases, they could reach toxic levels. This is particularly common in people who consume too many fat-soluble vitamins.

Fat-soluble vitamins include:

Not all fat-soluble vitamins are harmful when an individual consumes them in large amounts. For instance, it is generally safe to consume a surplus of vitamin D, although people should avoid consuming megadoses of this vitamin over long periods of time.

Consuming excess amounts of certain minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, and selenium, can cause adverse effects.

Usually, mineral or vitamin overconsumption results from excessive intake of a certain micronutrient through the use of multivitamins or supplements.

When someone consistently exceeds the DV of certain vitamins and minerals, they may experience some side effects. The body uses each micronutrient differently, and therefore each can cause different symptoms.

In the table below, we outline potential symptoms of acute or chronic toxicity due to overconsumption of specific vitamins and minerals:

Some vitamin and mineral deficiencies are particularly common. Some of these include:

Most people can get these vitamins and minerals from a varied, balanced diet, which includes fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean meat, healthy fats, and dairy products.

However, there are many reasons a person may not be able to get the nutrients they need through diet alone.

The following could contribute to inadequate nutrient intake or absorption:

In these cases, people may need to take a supplement to meet the DV of certain nutrients.

Multivitamins are supplements that contain a combination of different vitamins and minerals.

Individuals often take multivitamins to cover their bases. However, many multivitamins contain high levels of nutrients a person may already be consuming enough of in their diet.

Some diets, such as vegetarian or vegan diets or the diets of people with allergies or food intolerances, may be lacking in certain nutrients. Therefore, a person may need to supplement their diet with specific vitamins, minerals, or both.

For example, people following a vegan diet are at risk of developing deficiencies in vitamin B12, iodine, zinc, and iron. They may need to take a supplement or multivitamin to meet their needs.

If someone is considering taking a vitamin or mineral supplement, they should consult a doctor first. The doctor can order a simple blood test to check for any deficiencies.

Taking too many dietary supplements or consuming a specific vitamin or mineral in excessive amounts could result in severe side effects.

If a person is concerned about taking too many supplements, they should seek guidance from a healthcare professional.

If someone thinks their consumption of specific vitamins or minerals is either too high or too low, they should consult a doctor.

A simple vitamin and nutrition blood or urine test can help determine which micronutrients a person is lacking. A doctor can then provide guidance on which supplements are suitable for the individual to take. The doctor may also refer them to a dietitian for nutritional assistance.

The FDA sets out guidelines on how much of each vitamin and mineral a person should consume per day. Health experts refer to this as DV.

While most people can meet these values through food alone, individuals following restrictive diets or with certain health conditions may need to take dietary supplements.

People should always contact a doctor before taking new supplements or multivitamins, as consuming too much of certain nutrients can have adverse effects.

Read more from the original source:

Daily intake of vitamins and minerals: What to know - Medical News Today

Glutamine is one of the most abundant amino acids in your body so its kind of a big deal. But can you get any real benefits from additional glutamine foods or supplements?

Were digging up the deets on all things glutamine, and if its worth supplementing this essential amino acid in the name of fitness.

Glutamine is one of 20 amino acids your body needs to build proteins necessary for your organs, blood, and immune system.

Two kinds of glutamine exist: L-glutamine and D-glutamine. Theyre similar, but have a different molecular arrangement.

L-glutamine is the form our body needs, and you can find it in foods and supplements. You may also see it referred to as just glutamine since we dont have much use for D-glutamine.

Although our body can make L-glutamine on its own, there are times we need a boost. Illnesses or injuries are usually the culprits behind the lack of glutamine production.

Since glutamine helps form protein, its probably not a surprise that its found in pretty much all high protein foods.

Research found the following percentages of certain foods protein was made of L-glutamine:

A 2018 study also found a large percentage of glutamine in other plant-based food sources like whole grains and cold cereals. But, they also didnt contain a lot of protein.

In the end, as long as you are getting enough protein in your diet, youre also likely eating enough glutamine.

OK so you need glutamine and its pretty easy to get from food. But what exactly does glutamine do for your health beyond just building proteins?

Glutamine is super important for keeping your immune system going strong. It helps power immune cells like white blood cells and some intestinal cells.

According to a 2018 article, your immune system wants more glutamine during an infection or injury. If you cant produce the amount of glutamine your body needs, your body will break down muscle (your protein stores) to release more.

This entire effect can lead to a glutamine deficiency, which can compromise your immune system even more.

Because of this, folks with intense injuries like burns are often given glutamine supplements or told to follow a high glutamine or high protein diet.

But, if youre already healthy theres no strong evidence taking extra glutamine offers your immune system additional support.

Your intestines actually play a major role in immune system health. So any benefits glutamine brings to your immune system also relates to intestinal health.

A 2017 review found that glutamine plays a role in the everyday intestine function and other things like:

An older 2012 article also links glutamine with maintaining gut barrier function. Without a healthy gut barrier, you may be more susceptible to gastrointestinal diseases like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and celiac disease.

Like other proteins and amino acids, glutamine comes in a powdered supplement form that is marketed for fitness.

But does it actually do anything for muscle gain and exercise performance? Well be honest, theres not a lot of promising info, but heres what the research says.

Unfortunately, studies are lacking behind this topic so theres no solid evidence glutamine supplements can actually help muscle gain or strength.

A small 2001 study found young adults taking glutamine or a placebo for 6 weeks of weight training both improved strength and muscle mass. There was basically no difference between the two groups.

New research isnt promising either. A smaller 2021 study investigated how glutamine supplements could help the strength and power of knee muscles in elderly women. After 30 days, participants in the glutamine group had improved strength and power of knee muscles when participating in exercise.

But its worth noting that these elderly participants probably needed the extra glutamine because of their injury. Many athletes and healthy young adults already eat high protein diets, so its likely theyre getting more than enough glutamine without a supplement.

Much like the studies around muscle gain, more studies (especially larger ones) need to be done in order to determine if a glutamine supplement helps exercise performance, too.

A small 2021 study of 12 professional basketball players found after 40 days, the group taking glutamine had less muscle damage and cortisol levels (which indicates stress) compared to the placebo group. This could potentially help muscle repair during recovery which can improve future exercise performance.

An older study also found glutamine supplements didnt help muscle mass or exercise performance at all.

While there isnt a recommended dosage, research shows that occasionally taking (as in, it shouldnt be daily) 20 to 30 grams of glutamine seems to be OK.

But regular high intakes may lead to problems. A 2013 study found dosages around 40 grams per day could cause negative side effects.

As with any supplementation, make sure you chat with your doctor first before adding it to your routine. They can also help you determine the amount thats safe and right for you.

If glutamine supplements are taken on the reg, it may wind up being more hurtful than helpful.

A 2013 review provides a laundry list of side effects including:

Due to the many unknowns behind glutamine supplementation, it may be best to focus on getting it in through food sources.

Glutamine is one of the most abundant amino acids in your body that helps build protein.

Eating enough high protein foods will likely ensure youre getting enough to help your immune system and intestines remain healthy.

It also comes in supplementation form, but research is iffy on whether its beneficial for muscle gain, athletic performance, or weight loss. Plus, it could lead to serious side effects if you take too much, too often.

If youre still interested in taking a glutamine supplement, talk with a doctor or dietician.

Read the rest here:

Glutamine Benefits: Health, Supplements, and Weight Loss - Greatist

Newswise Philadelphia, November 17, 2021 The first investigation into the prevalence of dietary supplement and sport food use in male and female middle school-aged runners has found that almost half the study participants used these products on two or more days a week during the prior year. Characteristics associated with supplement use included a prior bone stress injury, following a vegetarian diet and behaviors suggesting dietary restrictions such as losing weight and skipping meals, researchers report in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

The preadolescent years represent a crucial period of growth. While previous studies have examined the use of dietary supplements in high school and college athletes, intake among preadolescent athletes was unknown, explained lead author Michelle Barrack, PhD, RD, CSSD, FACSM, Department of Family and Consumer Sciences, California State University, Long Beach, CA, USA. It is important to evaluate this population due to the recognition of an elevated risk of low bone mineral density, bone stress injury, and inadequate intake of energy. Additionally, in some cases, dietary supplements have been associated with the development of adverse events in children and adolescents.

Data were gathered from 2,113 middle school-aged cross-country runners who completed a survey on dietary supplement use and related factors. Dietary supplements included vitamin/mineral and non-vitamin/mineral products; sport foods included energy bars, carbohydrate-electrolyte drinks, and protein bars or drinks. The survey covered demographic information, weight, height, sports participation history, weekly exercise training, running performance times, dietary patterns, menstrual function, history of a clinical eating disorder, and injury history. Respondents were asked to indicate the type and frequency of supplements and sports food consumption over the last year.

Among the middle school runners surveyed, 42.7% used either a dietary supplement or sport food on two or more days per week. Overall, 26.1% of runners reported using one or more dietary supplement, and 32.6% reported use of a sports food. Girls reported higher use of multivitamins/minerals, vitamin D, calcium, iron, probiotics, and diet pills. Boys reported higher use of creatine and sports food.

A higher proportion of runners with supplement use, compared to preadolescents with no supplement use, followed a vegetarian diet, were underweight, had one or more running-related injuries, met criteria for elevated dietary restraint, had a diagnosed eating disorder, or reported currently attempting to gain weight. Supplement use was reported by 51% of runners who skipped meals and 77% of runners with weight loss in the past year. The findings support associations between higher supplement use and factors consistent with lower food intake or energy deficiency.

To our knowledge, this is the first study to observe these associations in youth runners, said Dr. Barrack. Findings from the study draw attention to the need for teaching middle school runners following an omnivorous or vegetarian diet about the importance of eating adequate energy, while avoiding calorie restriction or skipping meals.

While supplements can aid in addressing nutrient inadequacies, limited regulation means that some products may contain harmful ingredients or promote adverse health effects. Preadolescent endurance runners should maximize energy and nutrient intake from foods and consume a level of energy that supports their exercise energy expenditure, added principal investigator Adam S. Tenforde, MD, FACSM, Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Charlestown, MA, and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA. Dietary supplementation should, ideally, be considered after a nutrition assessment and with consultation from a registered dietitian nutritionist.

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Notes for editors

The article is Dietary Supplement Intake and Factors Associated with Increased Use in Preadolescent Endurance Runners, by Michelle T. Barrack PhD, RD, CSSD, FACSM, John Sassone, MS, RD, Francis Dizon MS, RD, Alexander C. Wu, Stephanie DeLuca, MD, Kathryn E. Ackerman, MD, MPH, FACSM, Adam S. Tenforde, MD, FACSM (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jand.2021.07.013). It appears online in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics published by Elsevier.

The article is openly available at https://jandonline.org/article/S2212-2672(21)01039-X/fulltext

It is the position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics that appropriately planned vegetarian, including vegan, diets are healthful, nutritionally adequate, and may provide health benefits in the prevention and treatment of certain diseases. Full article available at http://www.eatrightpro.org/-/media/eatrightpro-files/practice/position-and-practice-papers/position-papers/vegetarian-diet.pdf.

About the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

The official journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the premier source for the practice and science of food, nutrition, and dietetics. The monthly, peer-reviewed journal presents original articles prepared by scholars and practitioners and is the most widely read professional publication in the field. The Journal focuses on advancing professional knowledge across the range of research and practice issues such as: nutritional science, medical nutrition therapy, public health nutrition, food science and biotechnology, food service systems, leadership and management and dietetics education. http://www.jandonline.org

About the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

Representing more than 112,000 credentialed nutrition and dietetics practitioners, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the worlds largest organization of food and nutrition professionals. The Academy is committed to improving health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education and advocacy. Visit the Academy at http://www.eatright.org.

About Elsevier

As a global leader in information and analytics, Elsevier helps researchers and healthcare professionals advance science and improve health outcomes for the benefit of society. We do this by facilitating insights and critical decision-making for customers across the global research and health ecosystems.

In everything we publish, we uphold the highest standards of quality and integrity. We bring that same rigor to our information analytics solutions for researchers, health professionals, institutions and funders.

Elsevier employs 8,100 people worldwide. We have supported the work of our research and health partners for more than 140 years. Growing from our roots in publishing, we offer knowledge and valuable analytics that help our users make breakthroughs and drive societal progress. Digital solutions such as ScienceDirect, Scopus, SciVal, ClinicalKey and Sherpath support strategic research management, R&D performance, clinical decision support, and health education. Researchers and healthcare professionals rely on our 2,500+ digitized journals, including The Lancet and Cell; our 40,000 eBook titles; and our iconic reference works, such as Gray's Anatomy. With the Elsevier Foundation and our external Inclusion & Diversity Advisory Board, we work in partnership with diverse stakeholders to advance inclusion and diversity in science, research and healthcare in developing countries and around the world.

Elsevier is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. http://www.elsevier.com

Original post:

Prior weight loss, history of bone stress injury, and eating behaviors associated with dietary supplement use in preadolescent endurance runners -...

A dietary supplement is a product proposed to supplement the diet. Dietary supplements can comprise herbs, minerals, botanicals, enzymes, amino acids, and several other ingredients. Some of the most consumed supplements include vitamin B12, vitamin D, and minerals such as iron & calcium. Few herbs like garlic and echinacea, along with products like probiotics, glucosamine, and fish oils are enlisted under dietary supplements.

Demand for global vitamins and dietary supplements market is on the rise due to increasing demand from the geriatric population. As per the study conducted by the National Institutes of Health, Tufts and Purdue University, in America, there is widespread use of dietary supplements among with the age of 60 or more. Thus, the growing population of senior citizens around the world has caused a shift in healthcare spending, which in turn is driving the global market.

However, some of the concerns including very less amount of an active ingredient in a supplement, inessential material, substitution of a synthetic substance for a claimed naturally derived material may hamper the growth of the market. Still, consumers of all ages are already making dietary supplements a part of their everyday lives, and the market is far from saturated thus offering healthy growth opportunities for the market growth.

The global vitamins and dietary supplement market is bifurcated into type, application, and region. Based on type, the market is classified as omega-3, herbals & botanicals, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin B, vitamin E, vitamin C, calcium, probiotics, and others. The application segment of the market comprises supermarkets & hypermarkets, pharmacies & drug stores, online channels, others

Europe is expected to remain the largest regional market for vitamins and dietary supplements during the forecast period. Factors such as an increase in healthcare expenditure, rising awareness regarding the importance of vitamins and minerals for a healthy life style is primarily driving the market growth in the region. North America is expected to be the second-largest market in global vitamins and dietary supplements market. However, rapid growth of the market is projected to seen in Asia Pacific region. Disposable income in Asia Pacific region is increasing, also, rise in number of fitness and wellness centers creating awareness in youth to add healthy supplements in daily diet. Secondly, percentage of geriatric population is very large in some of the Asia countries such as Japan. This is another reason driving the demand for vitamins and dietary supplements.

Key players operating in the global vitamins and dietary supplements market include Abbott Laboratories, GlaxoSmithKline, Bionova Lifesciences, Pfizer Inc., Herbalife International, Bayer AG, Amway, DaniscoA/S, Carlyle Group, Arkopharma Laboratoires Pharmaceutiques, Nutraceutics Inc., and Glanbia Nutritionals among others. In Oct 2020, Abbott Laboratories launched strawberry-flavored dietary supplements in India.

Get Free PDF Research Report Sample https://www.marketresearchstore.com/sample/vitamins-and-dietary-supplement-market-827286

Having a Masters Degree in Brewing Technology and overall experience of 6 years in the field of writing, Jerri has been one of the most workaholic and dedicated team members of thefoodbeveragenews.com portal. She has been a part of this portal for 4 years now. Jerri started a career in writing with freelancing and the journey has been worth watching and appraising. She handles the Beverage Industry domain of the portal and along with her team provides all the vital and up-to-the-minute news and reports to the readers in a simple and comprehensible manner.

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Vitamins and Dietary Supplement Market is Booming with Mounting Nutrient-rich Food Demand among the Geriatric Population The Food Beverage News -...

Following a request from the European Commission, the EFSA Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens (NDA) was asked to deliver an opinion on the safety of water lentil powder as a novel food (NF) pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283. Water lentils refer to aquatic plants belonging to the Araceae family and represented by five genera (Lemna, Wolffia, Wolffiella, Landoltia and Spirodela). The NF is thermally washed and dried water lentils, which are produced as a polyculture crop consisting of species from the Lemna genus (70100%) and the Wolffia genus (030%). The main constituents of the NF are protein, fibre and fat. The Panel notes that the concentration of trace elements and contaminants in the NF is highly dependent on the conditions of cultivation of the plant and the fertiliser composition. The NF is expected to be stable and to comply with the specifications during the suggested shelf life. The NF is intended for human consumption as a food ingredient in herbs, spices and seasonings, sauces, soups and broths, protein products, dietary food for weight control and as a food supplement. The target population is the general population, except for food supplements which are exclusively intended for consumption by adults. The Panel considers that based on the composition of the NF and the proposed intended uses, the NF is not nutritionally disadvantageous, except for the concerns regarding intake of manganese from the NF. No adverse effect was observed in the submitted 90day subchronic study, at the highest dose, 1,000mg/kg body weight (bw) per day of NF. The Panel considers that, based on the protein concentration, the consumption of the NF may trigger allergic reactions. The Panel concluded that an increase in manganese intake from the NF used as food ingredient or food supplements is of safety concern and the safety of the NF cannot be established.

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Safety of water lentil powder from Lemnaceae as a Novel Food pursuant to Regulation (EU) 2015/2283 - EFSA news

Plant-Forward Diets Meet Health and Sustainability Needs

While some Millennials see vegetarian, vegan or plant-forward diets as better for their health, others choose those diets because of their concern about the environmental impact of eating meat.

More than one in five Millennials (22%) have adopted a vegetarian diet at some point in their lives, and 16% have tried a vegan diet, according to YouGov research, but a much larger share, 45%, are adopting a flexitarian lifestyle, in which theyre reducing meat consumption but not cutting it out entirely. A slightly smaller share of Millennials, 18%, are turning to dairy-free eating.

Sprouts Farmers Market commissioned One Poll to conduct consumer research around New Years 2021 to find out how shoppers were thinking about plant-based foods, finding that 54% of Millennial respondents were consuming more plant-based meals than meat, in contrast to the 47% of consumers of all age groups who described themselves as flexitarians.

While 58% of survey respondents reported feeling that all of their nutritional needs could be met with plant-based foods, 63% of Millennials said that a plant-based diet could fulfill their nutritional needs. Only 30% of consumers in the Boomer generation and older felt the same way.

This shift toward more plant-based foods and meat alternatives will only grow, the retailer predicts. The interest in plant-based foods and a flexitarian diet is evident, says Sprouts CEO Jack Sinclair. Plant-based product sales grew exponentially last year, indicating consumers are craving innovative items to try at home.

According to SPINS, the retail market for plant-based foods and beverages is worth $5.6 billion and growing at a pace of 29% annually, almost twice the 15% growth rate of the overall food and beverage market.

In its State of Natural 2021 report, market researcher SPINS notes that plant-based ready-to-drink shelf-stable tea and coffee have been recent stars, growing 76%, as compared with 12% growth for the category overall. Other high performers were shelf-stable jerky and meat snacks, up 53% in a category with 15% growth; refrigerated creams and creamers, up 38% in a category with 16% growth; and refrigerated plant-based cheese, up 37% in the refrigerated cheese/plant-based cheese category, which has 17% growth.

During the delayed pandemic Olympics in 2021, top-ranked gymnast Simone Biles withdrew from the all-around team competition and three of the four individual events for which she qualified, saying that she needed to focus on her well-being and mental health. Epitomizing younger Americans acceptance of mental health issues and of speaking openly about them, Biles received an outpouring of support from her Millennial and Gen Z peers she was born on the cusp between generations as well as all-time Olympic gold medal winner Michael Phelps, a Millennial who has been spreading his mantra Its OK to not be OK while speaking openly about his own struggle with depression.

Healthscapes 2020 Healthcare Trends Executive Brief identified mental health openness as one of the top trends in Millennials interactions with health care. Millennials have overcome the stigma associated with seeking professional help for mental health that previous generations held, the report observes. They are not only more likely to identify behavioral health issues, but also seek treatment.

In a YPulse survey of Millennials and Gen Zers, i.e., people age 13 to 39 in 2020, 77% said that maintaining their mental health had become more important to them during the pandemic, with 59% reporting that they were going the extra mile to take care of their mental health.In January 2020, even before COVID-19 hit, 30% of Millennials in a YouGov survey said that they had changed their diet to improve their mental health.

Millennials understand that better sleep is tied to good mental health, so the trend toward eating certain foods and taking supplements to improve sleep is intertwined with Millennials commitment to their mental health.

A CRN survey taken in the midst of the pandemic found that melatonin, magnesium and CBD were among the most popular supplements taken for mental and sleep health, regardless of the consumers age.

Among the lesser-known ingredients for brain health, three in the nootropics category have seen double-digit growth in usage by manufacturers, according to SPINS. Use of Bacopa monnieri, an herb used by Ayurvedic medical practitioners that is said to enhance brain function, grew 148%; use of phosphatidylserine, an amino acid derivative purported to support memory, mental alertness and cognitive function, rose 109%; and use of DMAE, which is said to support neurotransmitter production, grew 104%.

Read the rest here:

Millennials Move Health and Wellness Market in New Ways - Progressive Grocer

In October 2021, citizen plaintiff groups issued more than two hundred fifty (250) new Proposition 65 (Prop. 65) Notices of Violation (Notices), including some amended Notices to add additional products and/or new alleged violators of the regulation, as well as some withdrawals of existing Notices. As we describe below, October of 2021 stood out in the Prop. 65 trend space because of the uptick of claims of alleged metals in different types of foods and dietary supplements. While claims that alleged acrylamide in food products decreased, metals claims for food products increased. Likewise, claims regarding alleged phthalates in consumer products remained strong.

Prop. 65, the Safe Drinking Water and Toxic Enforcement Act of 1986, requires clear and reasonable warnings on products sold in California if use of the products causes exposure to chemicals on the Prop. 65 List. Prop. 65 also gives interested citizen plaintiffs a private right of action to enforce these claims and recover their attorneys fees if they are successful. Common chemicals in Notices that are typically targeted include lead, acrylamide, cadmium, arsenic, mercury, and phthalates (Di(2-ethylhexyl)), phthalate (DEHP), diisononyl phthalate (DINP), and Di-n-butyl phthalate (DBP).

In the Notices described below, plaintiff groups allege that various chemicals in food, consumer products, and personal care products require Prop. 65 warning labels because the products use or consumption exposes California consumers to chemicals in quantities that could cause cancer or reproductive harm.

60-Day Notices for Food

In October, the majority of Notices sent by plaintiff citizen enforcers related to allegations that alleged metals in dietary supplements and different types of foods required Prop. 65 warning labels. While acrylamide Notices decreased, claims of heavy metal content in foods increased. A discussion of these trends is below.

60-Day Notices for Consumer Products

As has been the trend in consumer products in Prop. 65 for a number of years now, consumer product Notices in October related to alleged phthalates (DEHP, DINP and DBP) in largely pliable plastic products and alleged lead in ceramics and hardware. Notices regarding alleged Bisphenol A (BPA) in certain types of consumer products were also significant. Examples of consumer products trends are as follows:

60-Day Notices for Personal Care Products

Finally, an amendment to an existing Prop. 65 Notice was issued for alleged PFOA, or Perfluorooctanoic Acid, in various personal care products. PFOA regulation and litigation have been a significant trend in the worldwide chemical regulatory space in the past several years. Its noteworthy that PFOA claims are also arising in the Prop. 65 context.

What Should Food, Consumer Product, Personal Care, and Manufacturing Businesses Do Next?

Prop. 65 trends change each month according to the state of the law, interests of particular plaintiff groups, as well as the concentrations of chemicals in easily accessible products. Companies doing significant business in California should monitor Prop. 65 notices and trends and use the Prop. 65 warning language on California products when required.

Prop. 65 is a substantial risk issue for companies selling products in California. Compliance and labeling is costly, as is a Prop. 65 dispute, which can subject a potential defendant to attorneys fees in both defending the claim and, if the claim is resolved in settlement, the plaintiffs attorneys fees as well.

Complying with Prop. 65 includes testing products for common Prop. 65 chemicals and understanding potential exposure of the public to the chemical at issue. Implementing contractual indemnity language for those down the supply chain helps to ensure that products sold in California (either online or in brick-and-mortar stores) are adequately screened by upstream manufacturers, suppliers, and producers for Prop. 65 compliance. Prop. 65 liability most frequently rests with those up the supply chain. For those businesses, monitoring Prop. 65 trends and common claims is a key part of a successful compliance program.

[1] The issue of the acrylamide cancer warning label is presently being litigated in the Eastern District of California and Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, in Cal. Chamber of Commerce v. Becerra, Case No. 2:19-cv-02019. The California Attorney Generals website provides discussion of the Prop. 65 acrylamide litigation and Ninth Circuit appeal at: https://oag.ca.gov/prop65.

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Proposition 65 Notices of the Month October 2021: Wildlife & Duck Calls, Socks, Spices, Fruits & Vegetables, and Pasta - JD Supra

Between the upcoming flu season, seasonal allergies, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, there are lots of reasons to give your immune system a boost. For that big job, more people are turning to a tiny resource.

Probioticsare living microorganisms, and you already have some of them in your body. Others come from food, specifically fermented foods such as yogurt, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH).

Probiotics are sometimes called good bacteria: They can help your body digest food and even fight cells that cause disease. Probiotics have shown promise in helping ease diarrhea, ulcerative colitis, and periodontal disease, according to the NCCIH. Research about other benefits of these beneficial bacteria is ongoing, and one area of particular interest is how they impact immunity.

It makes sense that probiotics have proved effective in treatment ofdigestive diseases. More than half the cells that create antibodies for fighting sickness are in the intestines and other organs in the gut, according to InformedHealth.org. If you have healthy gut flora the balance of helpful bacteria and other organisms in your intestines you may be less likely to get sick.

Scientists are interested in probiotics potential to support immune function, but so far research has not produced clear evidence that probiotics are truly effective in preventing things like a cold or the flu. Areview published in October 2020 in the journal Nutrients looked at the most recent research on probiotics and the immune system, specifically with regard to respiratory illness. The authors concluded that probiotic use is associated with a lower rate and duration of mild respiratory tract infections in children and adults, but again, more research is needed. There is also early evidence to suggest that probiotics might help prevent COVID-19 infection when used alongside other treatments, according to a study published in August 2021 in the Archives of Medical Research.

More research is needed to determine what specific kinds of bacteria may offer benefits, and in what amounts, as well as whether they will work the same for everyone the same way, says Libby Mills, a national spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and registered dietitian nutritionist near Philadelphia. Everyone has different gut bacteria and a different diet, Mills says. What works for one person might not work for the next. She points out that there are hundreds of species of bacteria and even more strains, and the benefits of each alone or in different combinations have not been thoroughly researched.

RELATED: 8 Ways to Keep Your Immune System Healthy

You might already be getting probiotics without realizing it. Most of the research on the benefits of probiotics have focused on these common strains of bacteria:

Conversely, there are foods that can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to illness. Research published in the January 2018 issue of Oncotarget shows that regularly consuming alcohol, sugar, and ultra-processed foods can lead to cellular inflammation, your immune systems response to potential harm. Inflammation is a natural process, but when it occurs inappropriately or for sustained amounts of time, it can trigger chronic diseases and conditions including depression, cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimers disease, according to Cleveland Clinic.

RELATED: Can Probiotics Help You Manage Chronic Health Conditions?

In addition to naturally being found in many foods, probiotics are sold as supplements and added to other foods where they dont naturally occur, like orange juice and peanut butter. Mills says a balanced diet with foods that naturally feature probiotics may be the best bet.

Getting probiotics from food is something most people can easily do and may have an edge over taking supplements, Mills explains. Food seems to have the fastest effect on changing the gut biome. Plus, the fermentation of the food may make other nutrients more bioavailable.

Right now, probiotics efficacy is theoretical. Probiotics might have some effect on the immune system, whether its good, bad, or neutral to people avoiding diseases is unknown, says Pieter Cohen, MD, an associate professor of medicine at the Cambridge Health Alliance and Harvard Medical School in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Theres a growing body of evidence that probiotics may boost immunity, but that varies with the type of probiotics, a persons health and other factors. Theyre usually not necessary.

If you take a healthy person, someone who doesnt have any health issues to begin with, [they have] no need to take a probiotic supplement. Theres no evidence that thatll improve your health, says Dr. Cohen. If youve been a little unhealthy lately, probiotics cant fill those gaps, he adds.

We have no evidence that putting live bacteria in your body can make up for skipping a healthy meal, or a few extra hours of sleep, says Cohen. The best way to keep your gut flora healthy is to eat a variety of healthy foods. Food is good for the immune system, he says. If you dont eat, youre malnourished, and your immune system is going to be low. He recommends home-cooked meals of fruits, vegetables, grains, and nuts. A study from the March 2020 issue ofNutrients indicates that fiber intake may be associated with an improved gut microbiome, too.

RELATED: An Immunology Expert Shares What She Eats in a Day

Theres really no reason to take an over-the-counter probiotic unless it's prescribed by your doctor for a specific ailment. There are risks: Starting probiotics or taking too many can cause an allergic reaction, gas, bloating, constipation, or diarrhea, according toCleveland Clinic. If you have a compromised immune system, introducing new bacteria to your body could make it harder for your body to heal, and even make you sicker. Dont take a probiotic unless it's recommended by your doctor.

Another potential concern about OTC probiotics? Regulation of their sale in the United States is convoluted. They can be classified as a food, a drug, or a supplement. Any probiotic supplement you buy at the store or online is not FDA-approved. Cohen noted the murky regulation, or lack thereof, in an article in the September 2018 JAMA Internal Medicine titled Probiotic Safety No Guarantees.

Its tough to say exactly how quickly probiotics might start working, Mills says. Different strains of probiotics, the amount you take and the quality of the food or supplement will affect when or if you see results. More research may bring answers.

Theres reason to be hopeful. Theres enough evidence to say probiotics may have some validity and its worth pursuing, both in research and in the foods that we choose in a balanced diet, Mills says.

See the article here:

Do Probiotics Help Your Immune System? - Everyday Health

Anal fissures are a common problem; however, theyre typically not a serious condition. They can affect people of all ages and stages of life, and theyre often seen in infants and young children, as this age group can commonly experience constipation.

An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus that can cause pain and bleeding during bowel movements.

In most cases, fissures occur from passing hard, dry stools. Other common causes are constipation, straining, and inflammatory bowel disease. In rare cases, anal fissures can occur as a result of HIV, anal cancer, and tumors (1).

Anal fissures usually heal within 46 weeks. Diet and lifestyle modifications can help reduce pain and complications associated with fissures, although no one food can heal fissures.

Here are 9 foods that may help if you have fissures.

Papayas contain enzymes that may help improve digestion.

Studies have shown that Caricol, a supplement made with papayas, helped improve constipation and bloating among people with gastrointestinal dysfunction and digestive disorders (2, 3).

Papayas are also hydrating, as they comprise 88% water. Getting enough water can help prevent dry stools associated with dehydration (4).

Yet, avoid eating too much papaya, as theyre very high in fiber. Some people report digestive discomfort with high fiber intakes. One large papaya contains 13 grams of fiber, which are about 50% and 34% of the recommended daily needs for women and men, respectively (4, 5).

Lemons are bursting with vitamin C. In fact, the juice from 1 lemon has 21% of the Daily Value (DV) for vitamin C for an adult (6).

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that plays an essential role in collagen synthesis and skin health. Its found to be involved in all phases of wound healing, and a deficiency can significantly impair the healing process (7, 8).

As vitamin C is water-soluble, its not stored in the body, so its important to get enough vitamin C daily. Enjoy lemons squeezed in water or tea. Doing so will also promote adequate hydration to prevent constipation or dry stools.

Bananas are a good source of fiber, which may help relieve constipation. One review found that 77% of people with constipation experienced increased stool frequency and softer stool consistency after increasing their fiber intake (9).

One medium banana contains 3 grams of fiber, making it a good source of this nutrient. Men and women are advised to eat 38 grams and 25 grams of fiber per day, respectively (5,10).

The ripeness of your banana is important. Unripe bananas have a higher amylase-resistant starch level, which can aggravate preexisting constipation. Bananas levels of resistant starch decrease as the fruit ripens (11).

Oatmeal is loaded with soluble fiber, which helps your stools retain water. This may help prevent dry stools, a common cause of fissures. Ultimately, eating more oatmeal and other foods with soluble fiber keeps stools soft, making them easier to pass (12).

Oatmeal also contains avenanthramides, which are compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. Fighting inflammation is an essential part of healing fissures, and this phytochemical may help contribute to the process (13,14).

Curcumin, an active ingredient in turmeric, has been long recognized for its medicinal properties, including its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Coupling turmeric with black pepper helps improve the absorption of curcumin (15).

Early research suggests that topically applying turmeric can help wound healing and skin-related disorders. More research is needed on the use of topical turmeric treatments for anal fissures (15, 16 17).

Turmeric suppositories are becoming more common; yet, research is lacking to support their use. Most medical experts recommend against using a suppository, as it may increase the risk of additional anal tearing (18).

Ghee is a widely used Ayurvedic remedy for healing fissures.

Ghee contains butyrate acid. Early research supports the use of this fatty acid to improve digestion, and its increasingly used to treat and prevent gastrointestinal disorders like diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (19).

Anecdotal reports also support the use of ghee as a natural laxative. Ayurvedic health practitioners recommend taking 1 teaspoon of ghee in milk or water to promote smooth bowel movements.

While this practice is safe, it adds additional saturated fat and calories to your diet, and no research has confirmed its benefits for this purpose.

Milk is another popular Ayurvedic remedy for fissure healing. Its often recommended to take it alongside ghee to improve constipation. Whether milk will help heal fissures will depend on how your body responds.

Higher fat milk contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), a fatty acid. Some research suggests CLA supplements may help reduce inflammatory responses. Although, other studies have found that CLA supplements may increase levels of inflammatory markers (20, 21).

Furthermore, some older studies have linked drinking milk to fissures. A study including 60 infants and young children associated constipation and fissures with higher milk consumption (22).

In another study, 69% of people who followed a milk elimination diet for 4 weeks experienced healed fissures. However, over 20% of these people had a fissure recurrence once they reintroduced milk into their diet (23).

Researchers hypothesize this is only relevant to people who are hypersensitive to milk proteins. Its important to note that milk does not contain fiber, and a low fiber diet is a major contributor to constipation (24).

Although research on milks healing properties is limited, it may be beneficial to relax with a warm milk beverage before bedtime.

Curd is promoted in Ayurvedic medicine as a treatment that works by targeting the digestive tract and promoting regular, pain-free bowel movements. Its probiotic potential is the foundation of this approach (25).

Curd is made by mixing boiled milk with an acid, such as lemon or vinegar. Live bacterial cultures convert lactose into lactic acid. Depending on the strain, the probiotics may help relieve constipation.

However, not all curds contain bacterial cultures that exert probiotic effects to help improve digestive health and bowel movements. The probiotic properties of homemade curds can be inconsistent (26).

If you want to reap the benefits of probiotic-rich foods, opt for yogurt containing live bacterial cultures, sauerkraut, miso, and kimchi (27).

Legumes like beans, chickpeas, and lentils are a good source of zinc, a mineral that plays an important role in wound healing. In fact, a zinc deficiency can be a major cause of tissue injury (28).

Soaking, heating, and sprouting legumes before eating them may increase the absorption of zinc. One cup of kidney beans, chickpeas, and lentils contains 11%, 14%, and 20% of the DV, respectively (29, 30, 31, 32).

In addition to zinc, legumes are an exceptional source of fiber, which helps soften and regulate stools to prevent fissures. One cup of beans provides approximately 1116 grams of this nutrient (29, 30, 31).

The topical application of zinc may help reduce discomfort and speed recovery, but talk with your doctor before topically applying zinc to an anal fissure (33).

Most anal fissures heal naturally with the aid of proper nutrition and lifestyle habits. The following methods may help speed the healing process (1):

If fissures dont heal within 8 weeks, theyre considered to be chronic. At this point, talk with your doctor, as you may require surgery. They may also investigate for any potential underlying causes.

Certain foods and lifestyle modifications may help your fissures heal more quickly and reduce pain. Eating foods that deliver fiber, nutrients like vitamin C and zinc, and probiotics may be beneficial. In addition, drinking plenty of water and getting enough movement may help.

Nevertheless, there are no quick fixes or miracle foods for fissures. Talk with your doctor if you have any questions or your fissure hasnt healed within 8 weeks.

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9 Foods to Try to Help Heal Fissures - Healthline