Drinking water and caffeine-free teas helps keep you hydrated, which can help your body heal. Teas also contain plant compounds called polyphenols. Polyphenols may support your immune system and reduce your chances of catching a cold.

Green tea has catechins, which are a type of polyphenol. Polyphenols are a group of molecules that may help fight viruses, bacteria, and inflammation.

Taking green tea catechins—by drinking, gargling, or using supplements—may help prevent flu. A 2015 study found that people who drank green tea at least twice a week had a 61% lower risk of catching the flu.

One study suggests brewing finely ground tea leaves at 185 °F (85 °C) for 30 minutes to get the most polyphenols. Using very cool water (68 °F/20 °C) and brewing for a long time (12 hours) also gives the most antioxidants.

Squeeze a lemon to get the most benefits from green tea. Green tea catechins work better in acidic conditions. Adding lemon makes the tea more acidic.

Green tea contains caffeine, so consume it in moderation. Having too much caffeine can make it hard to sleep and can cause dehydration.

Echinacea is a purple flower that grows in areas east of the Rocky Mountains. It has many beneficial compounds, including one called alkamides. Alkamides may help your body fight inflammation and viruses and support overall immune health.

Some studies suggest that Echinacea tablets and capsules may help prevent upper respiratory tract infections and shorten the recovery period in children.

A 2022 study found that drinking Echinacea tea brewed at 185 °F (80 °C) worked better against viruses than taking capsules or tablets.

Another 2015 study found that drinking a hot drink made with Echinacea and elderberry worked as well as the flu medicine Tamiflu (oseltamivir) when the flu was treated early.

Be aware that Echinacea may not be safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Some people may be allergic to Echinacea. Echinacea may also interact with immunosuppressant medications. Consult your doctor if you have chronic conditions or take any medication.

Elderberry is a dark purple berry that grows on the black elder tree. People use elderberry supplements to help with colds and other upper respiratory infections.

Elderberry is rich in anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants. These antioxidants help support the immune system and may slow down the spread of viruses.

A 2021 research review found that elderberry supplements may make colds shorter and less severe. Most studies focus on the effects of supplements. There is limited evidence that elderberry or elderberry tea helps with colds.

Elderflower tea is made from elderberry flowers. The leaves, stems, and unripe berries of the elder tree are poisonous.

Many people use chamomile to help with colds and coughs.

Chamomile has compounds that fight inflammation and act as antioxidants. However, no studies in humans show that chamomile tea directly helps with colds.

Chamomile has been shown to improve sleep. Since rest is essential for illness recovery and overall health, chamomile may help your body heal.

Ginger has compounds called gingerols. Gingerols might help fight the flu virus, but no studies show they work in people.

Studies in people suggest that ginger supplements might help lower inflammation and protect the body with antioxidants. Lowering inflammation may help your body heal, but no studies have looked at how ginger tea affects colds directly.

Some people claim lemon tea helps with cold symptoms, but there is no proof that it actually does.

Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which can help make colds less severe. But lemon tea doesn’t have much vitamin C. You can get vitamin C by eating lemons or other citrus fruits instead.

Still, lemon tea can provide hydration, which can support health. Add fresh lemon juice or a slice to hot water. 

The global probiotic strains market is projected to witness robust growth over the next decade, rising from an estimated USD 3,781.2 million in 2025 to USD 8,013.4 million by 2035, reflecting a CAGR of 7.8% during the forecast period. This upward trajectory is fueled by increasing consumer awareness of gut health, growing interest in preventive healthcare, and the integration of probiotics into functional foods and dietary supplements.

The rising importance of gut health has been central to market growth. Research highlights the role of the gut microbiome in supporting digestion, immunity, metabolism, and even mental health. As a result, consumers are increasingly turning to probiotic-enriched products and functional foods to maintain overall well-being.

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Geographically, the market demonstrates significant variation. The United States remains a dominant player due to its focus on preventive healthcare, high incidence of gastrointestinal disorders, and consumer willingness to adopt probiotic products. Meanwhile, the North Pacific region, though smaller in market size, is expected to experience rapid growth thanks to rising middle-class populations and increasing consumption of fermented foods.

The probiotic product landscape continues to expand with innovative product launches. Manufacturers are introducing strain-specific probiotics targeting immune support, brain health, and women’s wellness. The inclusion of probiotics in everyday products like yogurt, kefir, juices, and snacks has further broadened accessibility and consumer recognition of probiotic strains.

The market’s growth trajectory remains closely tied to strategic collaborations, mergers and acquisitions, and investments in research and development. Companies that innovate with evidence-based, targeted probiotic solutions are likely to gain a competitive edge.

Key Industry Highlights:

• Gut-Brain Axis Supplements: Innovations targeting mental health and stress management are shaping the cognitive wellness segment. Probiotic formulas are being developed to positively influence mood, brain neuropeptides, and gut hormones.

• Immune-Boosting Probiotics: Strains such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium are increasingly used for immune modulation, inflammation control, and supporting natural defense mechanisms.

• Personalized Probiotic Solutions: AI-driven microbiome testing enables tailored probiotic recommendations, allowing consumers to manage gut health based on their individual profiles.

• Postbiotic Innovation: The combination of probiotics and postbiotics is creating holistic solutions that enhance gut barrier integrity and immune health.

• Probiotic-Infused Foods & Beverages: Probiotics are being incorporated into everyday products, from juices and smoothies to snacks and baked goods, making gut-friendly nutrition convenient and accessible.

• Targeted Strains for Specific Conditions: Products designed for IBS, women’s health, and skin health are expanding the market for precision probiotic supplements.

Country-Wise Insights:

The United States is leveraging advanced microbiome mapping and personalized probiotics to meet rising consumer demand. In China, the market is blending Traditional Chinese Medicine-inspired ingredients with modern probiotic science, creating unique formulations that appeal to holistic health approaches. Japan, with one of the longest-living populations, focuses on probiotics that promote longevity, cognitive health, and immune support.

Category Insights:

Lactobacillus strains dominate the market, accounting for a significant share across functional foods and supplements, with species such as L. acidophilus, L. rhamnosus, and L. plantarum leading the space. Dietary supplements are the fastest-growing application segment, reflecting the increasing consumer preference for convenient, daily probiotic intake.

The probiotic industry is marked by a mix of organized and unorganized players. Global leaders such as Chr Hansen, DuPont, Lallemand, and Probi dominate with advanced R&D and distribution networks, while local manufacturers contribute to regional innovation, often producing traditional fermented foods tailored to local tastes.

As consumer knowledge of gut health grows and the demand for natural, preventive healthcare rises, the probiotic market is poised to continue its upward trajectory. Companies that strategically invest in innovation, partnerships, and personalized solutions will lead the sector in the coming decade.

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Leading Manufacturers: Chr Hansen A/S, DuPont Nutrition & Biosciences, Lallemand Health Solutions, Probi, Morinaga Milk Industry, Ganeden Biotech, Sabinsa Corporation, Unique Biotech, Synbio Tech

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Coffee vs. tea is a debate as old as time. While drinking your morning wake-up beverage, have you ever wondered which has more caffeine, or which one is better for you? The good news is that both beverages—coffee and tea—have proven health benefits (including helping to energize you and boosting immunity), but just like with everything else, you may want to consume them in moderation. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each, according to a nutrition expert.

Benefits of Coffee and Tea

“One can argue that both coffee and tea have potential health benefits, but the overall benefits of each depend on factors such as the type of coffee or tea, how it was grown, the brewing method, and the amount consumed,” says Ilana Muhlstein, RDN. Here’s a look at each.

Coffee

Drinking coffee has been proven to have multiple benefits, including reducing inflammation and supporting heart and gut health. “Coffee contains caffeine, which has been shown to help improve focus and cognitive function,” Muhlstein says.

“Drinking coffee has also been associated with a lower risk of heart disease and diabetes. A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that regular coffee consumption was associated with a lower risk of coronary heart disease. A meta-analysis of studies published in the journal Diabetes Care found that moderate coffee consumption was associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes.”

For those who want a quick caffeine boost and added energy, coffee is a solid choice since it typically has more caffeine than tea. But beware if you have anxiety or insomnia since coffee can trigger anxiety or disrupt sleep in sensitive individuals.

Tea

“While tea also contains caffeine and has been shown to improve cognitive function and alertness, the addition of theanine, an amino acid, gives tea the added benefit of reducing stress,” Muhlstein says. If you’re about to embark on a major project or need a laser level of focus, black or green tea may be your ideal go-to beverage—no caffeine trembles and reduced stress will help you make it to the project finish line. 

“Green tea is one of the richest sources of powerful antioxidants, called polyphenols, that have been shown to have the potential for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and certain cancers,” Muhlstein says. “You can find caffeine-free green tea or herbal tea for those who are sensitive to caffeine but want the other health benefits associated with tea.” 

Tea is ideal for those who are sensitive to caffeine or struggle with anxiety or sleep conditions. Some types of tea can even help promote sleep and have calming effects. If you don’t like the taste of coffee, tea may also be for you.

Caffeine Content in Coffee and Tea

Coffee and tea both contain caffeine. A standard 8-ounce cup of coffee contains about 95 milligrams of caffeine, while a cup of black tea has about 50 milligrams, and green tea has about 30 milligrams. That means coffee has twice as much caffeine as the same amount of black tea, and over three times the amount of caffeine as green tea.

But be careful how much caffeine you consume. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suggests having no more than 400 milligrams of caffeine in a day. That’s about four cups of coffee, eight cups of black tea, or approximately 13 cups of green tea per day.

The global creatine monohydrate market is demonstrating strong and sustained expansion, underpinned by rising health consciousness, increased sports participation, and growing demand for performance-enhancing nutritional supplements. In 2025, the global creatine monohydrate market size is likely to be valued at approximately US$ 341.0 million. Over the forecast period from 2025 to 2032, the market is projected to reach US$ 757.0 million, registering a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12%. This significant growth trajectory reflects both increasing adoption across diverse consumer groups and continuous innovation in product formulations and delivery formats.

Creatine monohydrate, widely recognized for its efficacy in enhancing muscle strength, endurance, and recovery, has transitioned from a niche supplement used primarily by professional athletes to a mainstream health and wellness product. The growing popularity of fitness regimes, bodybuilding, and high-intensity training programs across both developed and emerging economies has played a critical role in expanding the consumer base. Additionally, the rising prevalence of lifestyle-related health concerns, such as obesity and metabolic disorders, has driven individuals toward structured exercise programs supported by nutritional supplementation.

Another key growth driver is the expanding application of creatine monohydrate beyond sports nutrition. Increasing research and clinical interest in its potential benefits for cognitive health, aging populations, and therapeutic applications have widened its market scope. Manufacturers are also benefiting from improved supply chain efficiencies and advancements in raw material processing, which have enhanced product purity, consistency, and scalability. Together, these factors are creating a favorable environment for sustained market growth during the forecast period.

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Segmentation Analysis

By Type

By type, the creatine monohydrate market is segmented into pharmaceutical-grade creatine monohydrate, food-grade creatine monohydrate, and micronized creatine monohydrate. Among these, micronized creatine monohydrate currently dominates the market due to its superior solubility, improved absorption characteristics, and reduced gastrointestinal discomfort compared to conventional forms. The finer particle size of micronized variants has made them particularly attractive to fitness enthusiasts and professional athletes seeking faster and more efficient nutrient uptake.

Pharmaceutical-grade creatine monohydrate is experiencing steady growth, driven by its high purity standards and increasing use in clinical and research settings. As regulatory scrutiny intensifies and consumers become more informed about quality certifications, demand for pharmaceutical-grade products is expected to grow at an accelerated pace. Food-grade creatine monohydrate continues to hold a significant share, particularly in mass-market dietary supplements and fortified food products, supported by its cost-effectiveness and broad regulatory acceptance.

By Product Type

From a product perspective, the market is categorized into powders, capsules/tablets, liquids, and blended formulations. Creatine monohydrate powder remains the most widely consumed product type, owing to its affordability, flexibility in dosing, and ease of integration into protein shakes and pre-workout formulations. Powdered products are favored by both individual consumers and commercial gyms, contributing to their dominant market share.

Capsules and tablets are witnessing increasing adoption, particularly among consumers seeking convenience, precise dosing, and portability. This segment is gaining traction among working professionals and aging consumers who prioritize ease of consumption. Liquid creatine formulations, although still a niche segment, are gradually gaining acceptance due to advancements in stabilization technologies that improve shelf life and bioavailability. Blended formulations, which combine creatine monohydrate with amino acids, vitamins, or herbal extracts, are growing rapidly as brands focus on differentiated offerings tailored to specific fitness and wellness goals.

By Distribution Channel

In terms of distribution channels, the market is segmented into online retail, specialty nutrition stores, supermarkets and hypermarkets, and direct-to-consumer channels. Online retail platforms have emerged as the fastest-growing channel, driven by the expansion of e-commerce infrastructure, increased digital literacy, and the availability of detailed product information and reviews. The convenience of home delivery and access to a wide range of brands have further accelerated online sales.

Specialty nutrition stores continue to play a crucial role, particularly in providing expert guidance and personalized recommendations to consumers. Supermarkets and hypermarkets contribute significantly to volume sales, especially for established brands targeting mass-market consumers. Direct-to-consumer channels are gaining importance as manufacturers seek to strengthen brand loyalty, gather consumer insights, and improve profit margins by bypassing intermediaries.

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Regional Insights

Regionally, North America currently holds the leading share of the global creatine monohydrate market. The region’s dominance is attributed to a well-established sports nutrition industry, high disposable incomes, and a strong culture of fitness and athletic performance. The presence of major market players, extensive research and development activities, and widespread acceptance of dietary supplements further reinforce North America’s leadership position.

Europe represents another significant market, supported by increasing health awareness, a growing aging population, and expanding participation in recreational sports and fitness activities. Countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and France are key contributors, driven by strong regulatory frameworks that ensure product quality and safety, thereby enhancing consumer trust.

The Asia-Pacific region is expected to be the fastest-growing market during the forecast period. Rapid urbanization, rising middle-class populations, and increasing adoption of Western fitness trends are driving demand across countries such as China, India, Japan, and South Korea. Additionally, the expansion of e-commerce platforms and growing investments in fitness infrastructure are accelerating market penetration. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also witnessing steady growth, supported by increasing awareness of sports nutrition and gradual improvements in distribution networks.

Unique Features and Innovations in the Market

The modern creatine monohydrate market is characterized by continuous innovation aimed at improving efficacy, safety, and consumer experience. Advances in manufacturing processes have enabled the production of ultra-pure creatine monohydrate with minimal impurities, enhancing product reliability and performance. Innovations in micronization and encapsulation technologies have further improved solubility and absorption, addressing long-standing concerns related to digestibility.

Digital technologies are playing an increasingly important role in shaping the market. Artificial intelligence (AI) is being utilized by manufacturers to analyze consumer behavior, optimize formulations, and predict demand patterns. Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled fitness devices and applications are indirectly enhancing market growth by promoting data-driven training programs that emphasize the role of supplements in achieving performance goals. While 5G technology is still in its early stages of impact, its potential to enable real-time data sharing and personalized nutrition recommendations is expected to further transform consumer engagement and product development strategies.

Market Highlights

One of the primary reasons for the widespread adoption of creatine monohydrate is its strong scientific backing and proven efficacy in improving physical performance. Businesses across the sports nutrition, fitness, and healthcare industries are increasingly incorporating creatine-based products into their portfolios to meet rising consumer demand. Cost-effectiveness compared to other performance-enhancing supplements also makes creatine monohydrate an attractive option for both manufacturers and consumers.

Regulatory support and standardization have played a crucial role in market expansion. In many regions, creatine monohydrate is recognized as a safe and well-researched supplement, which has facilitated its inclusion in a wide range of consumer products. Sustainability considerations are also gaining importance, with manufacturers exploring environmentally responsible sourcing of raw materials and adopting energy-efficient production processes to align with evolving regulatory and consumer expectations.

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Key Players and Competitive Landscape

The global creatine monohydrate market is moderately consolidated, with several leading players competing on the basis of product quality, brand reputation, and distribution reach. Key companies operating in the market include BASF SE, AlzChem Group AG, NutraBio Labs, Inc., Glanbia plc, and MuscleTech. These companies have established strong positions through continuous investment in research and development, strategic partnerships, and global expansion initiatives.

BASF SE is recognized for its strong chemical manufacturing expertise and emphasis on high-purity creatine monohydrate products. The company’s focus on quality assurance and regulatory compliance has enabled it to maintain long-term relationships with major supplement brands. AlzChem Group AG is known for its vertically integrated production model, which ensures consistent supply and quality control, making it a preferred supplier in the global market.

NutraBio Labs, Inc. has differentiated itself through transparency and clean-label formulations, catering to health-conscious consumers seeking traceable and certified products. Glanbia plc leverages its extensive global distribution network and strong brand portfolio to reach a broad consumer base, while MuscleTech focuses on innovation and marketing-driven strategies to appeal to performance-oriented athletes.

Looking ahead, the competitive landscape is expected to evolve as new entrants introduce innovative formulations and established players expand into emerging markets. Mergers, acquisitions, and strategic collaborations are likely to intensify as companies seek to enhance their technological capabilities and geographic presence. The continued evolution of regulatory frameworks and advancements in nutrition science are expected to create new opportunities for growth, positioning creatine monohydrate as a cornerstone ingredient in the global sports nutrition and wellness industry.

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Asia Pacific Prebiotics Market Overview

The Asia Pacific Prebiotics Market is entering a phase of rapid and sustained expansion, driven by shifting dietary habits, rising health consciousness, and strong innovation in functional nutrition. According to Renub Research, the market is expected to grow from US$ 2.14 billion in 2024 to US$ 5.83 billion by 2033, registering a robust CAGR of 11.77% from 2025 to 2033.

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Prebiotics are indigestible food components that selectively stimulate the growth and activity of beneficial gut bacteria. Unlike probiotics, which are live microorganisms, prebiotics act as nourishment for existing good bacteria in the digestive system. Common examples include inulin, fructooligosaccharides (FOS), galactooligosaccharides (GOS), and mannan-oligosaccharides (MOS), naturally found in foods such as whole grains, onions, garlic, bananas, and chicory roots.

In a groundbreaking systematic review and meta-analysis published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies, a team of researchers led by SS Heydari delves into the profound effects of carotenoid supplementation on liver enzymes in adults. This research arrives at a pivotal moment when dietary supplements are increasingly scrutinized for their impact on health. The study meticulously assesses randomized controlled trials to uncover the nuanced connections between carotenoids and liver function, bringing to light valuable insights that could inform dietary recommendations and therapeutic approaches for liver health.

Carotenoids are organic pigments that are predominantly found in fruits and vegetables, exhibiting a plethora of health benefits. These compounds, known for their vibrant colors—whether the deep orange of carrots or the vivid red of tomatoes—are not just aesthetic; they play significant roles in human physiology. The liver, being the body’s detoxification hub, is significantly influenced by the nutritional status of carotenoids, making this research crucial for understanding how dietary choices can affect liver health.

The systematic review was designed with a rigorous protocol grounded in the GRADE framework, which evaluates the strength and quality of evidence. This methodology is imperative for deriving meaningful conclusions that can be translated into dietary guidelines for the public. By synthesizing findings from various studies, the researchers aimed to establish a relationship between carotenoid intake and liver enzyme levels, notably alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), which are key indicators of liver function.

The meta-analysis encompassed a wide range of studies, incorporating diverse populations and varying dosages of carotenoid supplementation. Such inclusivity strengthens the validity of the findings, as it reflects real-world scenarios where dietary habits significantly differ. The analysis revealed that individuals who engaged in carotenoid supplementation exhibited notable reductions in liver enzyme levels, suggesting an enhancement in overall liver function. This finding is particularly important for adults who may face the risk of liver diseases, as elevated enzyme levels often signal an underlying health concern.

Notably, the review emphasized the importance of specific carotenoids, including beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Each of these compounds was shown to have unique properties and mechanisms by which they influence liver enzyme levels. For instance, beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, has been linked to antioxidant activities which could mitigate inflammation and oxidative stress in liver tissues. Such mechanisms are essential for maintaining hepatic health and mitigating the risks associated with chronic diseases.

Furthermore, the use of a dose-response model allowed researchers to discern how varying amounts of carotenoids impacted liver enzymes. This granularity in data offered critical insights for developing targeted recommendations regarding carotenoid intake, ranging from supplementation to dietary adjustments focusing on carotenoid-rich foods. It underscores the necessity for healthcare professionals to advocate for the incorporation of these vital nutrients in their patients’ diets.

The role of lifestyle factors in the context of carotenoid supplementation was also a focal point of the analysis. It’s important to note that factors such as physical activity, alcohol consumption, and overall diet can modulate the effects of carotenoids on liver health. The interplay between these elements suggests that a holistic approach, rather than isolated supplementation, may yield the most significant benefits for liver function.

As discussions on liver health continue to evolve, the research highlights a crucial aspect of preventative healthcare. With rising incidences of liver-related ailments and the burgeoning interest in nutritional prevention strategies, this study serves as a beacon for further inquiry. It raises pertinent questions regarding the optimal sources and amounts of carotenoids necessary for fostering liver health, as well as the long-term implications of habitual carotenoid intake.

Furthermore, public health initiatives could greatly benefit from these findings. By promoting the consumption of carotenoid-rich foods, public health campaigns could potentially enhance population liver health. Educational programs focused on the importance of diet in liver function might lead to more informed nutritional choices among adults, ultimately reducing the prevalence of liver diseases.

In wrapping up the systematic review, the researchers expressed the need for further studies to explore the intricate mechanisms at play. Future research could investigate specific populations or pre-existing liver conditions to better understand how carotenoid supplementation could be tailored to individual needs. The implications of this research are expansive, suggesting that dietary interventions, particularly those rich in carotenoids, may serve as beneficial adjuncts in liver disease management.

In conclusion, the systematic review and meta-analysis led by SS Heydari et al. present compelling evidence on the beneficial effects of carotenoid supplementation on liver enzyme levels in adults. As healthcare continues to move towards more integrative and preventive modalities, the insights garnered from this research underline the importance of nutrition in maintaining liver health. The potential for carotenoids, whether through supplementation or dietary changes, presents an innovative avenue for enhancing liver function and preventing disease, thus heralding a new chapter in nutritional science.

Subject of Research: Effects of carotenoid supplementation on liver enzymes in adults.

Article Title: Effects of carotenoid supplementation on liver enzymes in adults: a GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose–response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

Article References:

Heydari, SS., Bideshki, M.V., Akbarzadeh, M. et al. Effects of carotenoid supplementation on liver enzymes in adults: a GRADE-assessed systematic review and dose–response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. BMC Complement Med Ther (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-025-05201-5

Image Credits: AI Generated

DOI:

Keywords: Carotenoids, Liver Enzymes, Supplementation, Meta-Analysis, Health Nutrition.

Tags: carotenoid supplementation effectsdietary recommendations for liver wellnessdietary supplements and liver functionGRADE framework in nutrition researchhealth benefits of carotenoidsimpact of carotenoids on liver healthliver enzymes and healthnutritional status and liver detoxificationorganic pigments in fruits and vegetablesrandomized controlled trials carotenoidssystematic review on carotenoidstherapeutic approaches for liver health

Boba tea, which originated in Taiwan, is a cold, milk-based beverage featuring tapioca pearls, while matcha is finely ground green tea powder, most commonly consumed as an iced latte. The hype around these beverages is not new, but their increasing appeal in India has even compelled the 13-decade-old Wagh Bakri to reinvent itself.

“If you look at the younger audience, they are not as excited about traditional hot teas. So the need was to launch newer variants of tea, like bubble teas and iced teas,” said Sanjay Singhal, the chief executive (CEO) of the Gujarat-based company. “It is more for the younger generation and to create excitement in our tea lounges.”

The tea producer operates a network of Wagh Bakri Tea Lounges, which serve freshly brewed tea and snacks. Starting this year, it has added cold beverages such as iced and bubble teas to the menu.

“People don’t go to a restaurant alone. They go as a group—friends or family and you have to appeal to everybody. Our teas may appeal to older people, but youngsters may not want to have them,” he said.

The strategy, he said, is already changing who walks into Wagh Bakri’s outlets. “Beyond revenue, what this has really helped with is that we are seeing a lot of Gen Z and young kids walking into our tea lounges. That’s a segment that would never come to a tea lounge earlier.”

Cold beverages are growing 60% faster than hot drinks, with Asian formats such as matcha and boba witnessing outsized traction, according to the latest Kearney–Swiggy How India Eats 2025 report. Search interest for matcha has jumped 11-fold over the past five years, while boba tea searches have grown fourfold, underscoring how these once-niche drinks are fast-moving into the mainstream, driven largely by Gen Z’s willingness to experiment.

Singhal said cold beverages see demand beyond the traditional summer months. “When people go out, they don’t necessarily want to have a hot beverage. A cold beverage works better as a food accompaniment, and you can sit and sip it for longer.”

Quick service restaurant chains that have long been grappling with muted consumer demand are now increasingly viewing cold beverages as a rare bright spot amid the slowdown. New-age café chains, meanwhile, say formats such as matcha, boba and iced coffees are reshaping consumption habits rather than riding a passing fad.

At cafe chain abCoffee, said founder and chief executive Abhijit Anand, cold beverages have become a key lever to attract younger consumers, with Gen Z accounting for about 54% of the chain’s customer base.

While boba continues to perform well, he said it tends to be more seasonal in nature. Matcha, by contrast, is emerging as a more durable habit. “Matcha is a true extension of the coffee line. It’s not just a cold coffee alternative but a winner in the mix.”

Cold drinks account for nearly 60% of the beverage mix during summer and spring and make up around 40% even in winter, with Mumbai standing out as a market where cold beverages contribute over half of sales year-round, said Anand.

According to Rajat Tuli, partner and food & beverage lead at consulting firm Kearney, while boba and matcha were initially popularised by Gen Z as early adopters, they have now found acceptance across age groups. “Their presence across QSR, café and standalone menus suggests these formats are no longer niche and are likely to remain a permanent fixture over the next few years.”

Menu innovation has contributed too. According to Tuli, cold formats lend themselves to greater experimentation, resulting in a wider range of variants compared to hot drinks. Younger consumers continue to show a clear preference for colder beverages, driving demand across seasons, he said.

That shift is reflected in the rapid growth of homegrown bubble-tea-focused QSRs such as Boba Bhai, which has attracted investor interest and expanded aggressively beyond metros. The Bengaluru-based chain, launched in 2023, has raised institutional capital, including a ₹30 crore Series A round led by 8i Ventures and plans to grow its footprint to well over 100 outlets across India, including in tier-2 and tier-3 cities, as it seeks to make bubble tea a mainstream choice for youth across the country, according to startup data platform Tracxn.

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Nearly three-quarters of Americans take supplements to help fill nutrient gaps or support overall wellness. But some commonly used products may come with an unintended side effect: disrupted sleep. Here are three to keep in mind.

Some pre-workout supplements, as well as those marketed for weight loss or energy, contain caffeine, said Pieter A. Cohen, MD, an associate professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School and an Internal Medicine doctor at the Cambridge Health Alliance. As a result, they may interfere with sleep if taken too close to bedtime.

While some supplements list caffeine as an ingredient, many do not disclose the amount. Others may contain caffeine without clearly labeling it at all. “It’s often very difficult, if not impossible, for consumers to see how much caffeine is in a product by looking at the label,” Cohen told Health.

Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve function, red blood cell formation, and energy production. It may also play a role in regulating melatonin (the hormone involved in the sleep-wake cycle), which could help support sleep and daytime functioning for people with a deficiency, Grace Derocha, RDN, spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, told Health.

That said, vitamin B12’s relationship with sleep appears to be complex—with some evidence suggesting it may actually reduce your nightly shuteye. For example, one small study in healthy adults found that vitamin B12 influenced melatonin levels, and that one form—methylcobalamin—was associated with less sleep, though not with poorer sleep quality overall.

But whether the supplements actually disrupt sleep—and why they might do so—remains unclear. “Overall, the research is mixed,” Fariha Abbasi-Feinberg, MD, a member of the board of directors of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, told Health. “Additional cross-sectional studies are needed to fully understand the relationship between sleep, circadian rhythm, and vitamin B12.”

While there isn’t strong evidence that multivitamins interfere with sleep, there are a couple reasons why they might. Many multivitamins contain vitamin B12,  a nutrient linked to sleep disruption, and one study found that people who took multivitamins reported higher rates of insomnia and more nighttime awakenings than those who did not.

However, Abassi-Feinberg cautioned against making too much of those findings. “It’s important to remember that one study is not indicative of a definitive trend or causation,” she said. The study also had important limitations, including a relatively small sample size, a nonrandomized design, and reliance on self-reported sleep data.

New science on omega-3s emerges constantly, from fish oil to flaxseed and beyond. Well known for benefitting cardiovascular health and brain health, this ingredient also is positively correlated with mental health outcomes as previously reported. 

But what if the benefits of omega-3s could be realized regardless of dietary preference? Researchers at Friedrich Schiller University Jena in Germany set out to determine how differing age, body mass index (BMI) and dietary patterns impact omega-3 levels in participants supplementing with flaxseed oil.

Why is this important?

Flaxseed is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a precursor for more well known omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) such as eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). However, conversion of ALA into EPA and DHA is confounded by several factors such as age, sex and BMI. 

The new study out of Germany investigates the impact of dietary patterns, in particular the consumption of animal and fish products, on ALA conversion. Because flaxseed is plant-based, it gives vegetarians and vegans more flexibility in getting adequate levels of circulating long chain omega-3s in the body, which are primarily found in fish and seafood.

What are the key takeaways from this supplement study?

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All participants experienced increased omega-3 PUFA plasma levels regardless of dietary pattern (omnivore, flexitarian, vegetarian or vegan). 

During the study, all subjects received nutritional counseling and nutrient-optimized menu plans, improving the nutritional quality of their food intake while still adhering to their dietary preferences. However, prior eating patterns did not significantly affect ALA conversion to EPA and DHA.

What omega-3 ingredient was studied?

Participants supplemented with enough flaxseed oil to consume 2 grams ALA per day, aiming for 3 grams ALA daily when combined with nutrient-optimized menus.

What were the details of the prospective clinical trial?

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What were the results of this omega-3 study?

Omega-3 concentrations increased with flaxseed supplementation in all groups regardless of dietary preference. ALA concentrations significantly increased from month three to 12 in all groups except vegans, when subjects received flaxseed supplements, possibly because they had lower erythrocyte concentrations at month 12. 

Dietary patterns had no impact on the conversion of ALA into long-chain PUFA. Researchers also found that sex, age, BMI and nutrient status did not impact ALA conversion.  

Participants had very few changes in saturated or monounsaturated fatty acid levels. Interestingly, the omnivores (or those adhering to a Western diet) had an increase in omega-6 fatty acid concentrations, typical of such dietary patterns.  Maintaining a balance between omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids is important for managing inflammation and reducing incidence of chronic disease.  

How does this build upon prior research on alpha-linolenic acid conversion?

Previous studies on ALA conversion in vegetarians and vegans were limited in size and did not include omnivores. The authors observed conversion of ALA to DHA in the current study but stated “the efficacy of ALA conversion to DHA is still under debate.”

Related:A new era: Delivering omega-3s with targeted precision – article

The study provided strong evidence that flaxseed oil improves omega-3 long-chain PUFA concentrations, suggesting health benefits afforded by omega-3s can be achieved by active ingredients high in ALA.