Prebiotic Fiber Blend for Gut Microbiome Support

NatureKnit, a natural and patent-pending gut health ingredient from FutureCeuticals, was shown to significantly enhance microbiome health through a sustained prebiotic effect, according to research published in Microorganisms. Conducted in partnership with ProDigest using its validated M-SHIME gut simulation model, the research revealed that two grams of NatureKnit led to a gentle fermentation pattern and outperformed popular purified fibers in supporting beneficial gut bacteria, increasing bacterial diversity, and promoting the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs).

“This research is an excellent illustration of how gut simulation models enable us to fully comprehend the behavior of functional ingredients in relation to the microbiome,” said Massimo Marzorati, Ph.D., CEO of ProDigest and Faculty of CMET at Ghent University. “By replicating the human gut’s complexity, we can create detailed insights that close the gap between laboratory research and actual applications.” 

Brendan Kesler, Innovation Director at FutureCeuticals, added: “NatureKnit’s sustained prebiotic effect and capacity to interact with the microbiome throughout the entire large intestine, compared with popular purified fibers which typically ferment rapidly and provide only short-term benefits, is an exciting discovery. NatureKnit’s powerful ability to promote the production of SCFAs offers significant benefits within the gut but also lays a foundation for how NatureKnit may impact overall human health beyond the gut.”

“These findings suggest NatureKnit represents an exciting development in the prebiotic, postbiotic, and microbiome space,” Kesler added. “The results present significant opportunities for future gut health products rooted in a natural and sustainable approach to microbiome and overall health.”

Learn more about NatureKnit here, and learn more from Kesler in the Naturally Informed education session Emergent Science on Fiber-Bound Polyphenols and the Gut Microbiome, available to view on demand.

HMB Shown to Improve Muscle Mass, Strength, and Function in Adults 50+

TSI Group shared the news of two newly published scientific reviews that strengthen the clinical case for HMB (β-hydroxy β-methylbutyrate) as a validated nutritional strategy to support muscle health and healthy aging. The findings confirm that HMB supplementation can significantly improve muscle mass, strength, and physical function in adults over 50, offering evidence-based guidance for use in dietary supplements targeting age-related muscle decline.

“The global population is aging rapidly, and consumers are increasingly looking for proactive solutions to stay strong, mobile and independent. Brands must meet this shift head-on. Ingredients such as HMB, with clinically confirmed benefits, offer an incredible opportunity to deliver meaningful support to the 50+ demographic,” comments TSI Group Vice President of Business Development Shawn Baier, MS, MBA.

A meta-analysis in Frontiers in Nutrition reviewed 21 randomized controlled trials involving 1,935 participants over age 50. It found the most effective results with a dosage of 3 grams of HMB per day for 12 weeks or longer. “This new meta-analysis validates what we at TSI have been championing for years: HMB is a scientifically proven ingredient that supports muscle health and function as we age,” says Baier. “We’ve long understood the critical role HMB plays in addressing age-related muscle loss, and it’s rewarding to see the clinical community continue to affirm that.” 

A second review, published in Nutrients, reinforced HMB’s relevance as a nutritional approach to address sarcopenia, stating that the recommended dose is difficult to reach through diet alone. The researchers noted, “HMB may be an effective supplement for maintaining muscle mass, strength, and function, particularly in the elderly and in patients experiencing conditions that predispose them to muscle loss, such as chronic diseases, physical inactivity, or aging.”  

TSI Group says the combined data from these reviews position HMB as a clinically backed ingredient to help maintain strength, mobility, and independence for aging populations.

Tocotrienol Ingredient for Mood, Antioxidant Support, and Cellular Aging

A tocotrienol-enriched beverage featuring TocoGaia, developed by PhytoGaia, supports multiple healthy aging outcomes in adults aged 50 to 70, according to a clinical trial in Nutrients. The six-month, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study determined that daily supplementation improved psychological quality of life, increased antioxidant enzyme activity, and enhanced telomerase activity, a marker linked to genomic stability.

Participants taking TocoGaia showed significant gains in mood and emotional resilience, as well as higher levels of superoxide dismutase and catalase. The study authors also reported reductions in inflammatory markers such as TNF-α, IL-6, and TGF-β, and lower oxidative DNA damage. No adverse effects were observed, and clinical safety markers remained within normal limits.

“This is one of the most comprehensive human trials to date showing that tocotrienols (TocoGaia) can positively modulate several key hallmarks of aging, from reducing inflammation and oxidative stress to enhancing genomic protection,” said Dr Ariati Aris, Scientific Affairs Specialist at PhytoGaia. “What’s truly encouraging is that these benefits were seen within just six months of supplementation, with no reported side effects. These findings add robust support to the growing scientific evidence positioning tocotrienols (TocoGaia) as a safe and effective nutraceutical for healthy aging.”

Bryan See, Vice President of PhytoGaia, added: “This study comes at a pivotal time when brands and consumers alike are demanding natural, effective, and above all – safe solutions for healthy aging,” commented . “Honestly, TocoGaia makes it easier for brands to compete. It’s clean-label, clinically validated and delivers exactly what today’s consumers and product teams are looking for”.

Botanical Blend for Joint Support

A peer-reviewed study published in Drug Design, Development and Therapy highlights the joint and mobility benefits of Muvz, a botanical blend from OmniActive Health Technologies. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial, which evaluated 157 adults aged 40 to 60, found that Muvz supplementation—at both 200 mg once daily and 200 mg twice daily—significantly supported knee and lower back comfort, enhanced range of motion, and reduced activity-related discomfort over a 90-day period.

Participants showed statistically significant improvements beginning at day 30, with enhanced musculoskeletal health questionnaire scores and improved active and passive flexion by the end of the study. The branded ingredient Muvz, a blend of Vitex negundo and Zingiber officinale, is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity.

“We are excited to see this new publication validating the benefits of Muvz in supporting joint and low-back comfort with improved mobility, particularly for those with knee and lower back discomfort,” said Abhijeet Morde, Senior Director of Invitro Biology, Animal Studies, and Clinicals at OmniActive.

OmniActive says the clinical findings reinforce Muvz’s potential as a natural, plant-based option for joint health products targeting active adults and wellness-focused consumers.

Algal DHA-Enriched Foods for Improved Omega-3 Status

An international study led by King Abdulaziz University in Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences in Ireland and supported by Mara Renewables Corporation, shows that enriching common foods with algal omega-3 DHA can improve omega-3 status and support public health.

The study evaluated the effects of regular consumption of chicken and eggs enriched with Mara’s Humanativ OmegaPro, a microalgae-based source of DHA. Over a four-month period, 80 healthy Saudi adults consumed the enriched foods four times per week. Results showed a significant improvement in omega-3 index levels, with participants in the intervention group reaching an average omega-3 index 0.9% higher than the control group. The intervention halved the number of individuals in the high-risk category (omega-3 index <4%) and quadrupled the number who achieved protective levels (>6%).

“These findings confirm what we’ve long championed: integrating algal DHA into foods people already enjoy can close critical nutrition gaps without requiring people to change their diets,” said Harry Boot, CEO of Mara Renewables Corporation.

Dr. Salwa Albar, Associate Professor of Nutritional Epidemiology at King Abdulaziz University, added, “This research provides valuable evidence that omega-3 DHA-enriched foods can help bridge the nutritional gap in our population. Integrating such functional foods into everyday diets not only elevates tissue levels but also offers real cardiovascular protection.”

The study builds on earlier research from Ireland (Stanton et al., 2020) and demonstrates the potential of food-based DHA interventions to serve as a scalable, sustainable strategy for improving health outcomes globally.

(OmegaPro Extra is not currently approved for sale in the U.S. The application for submission to the FDA for GRAS status is in process.)

Beta-Alanine Complex for Improved Bioavailability

Natural Alternatives International, Inc. (NAI) and CarnoSyn Brands shared the news that TriBsyn, an encapsulated beta-alanine complex, significantly improves bioavailability while eliminating paresthesia—a common side effect of beta-alanine supplementation, according to clinical trial results in Food Hydrocolloids for Health.

The randomized, double-blind, crossover study evaluated a 400-mg dose of TriBsyn, formulated using proprietary Hydro Oleo technology, against both low (400-mg) and high (1,200-mg) doses of conventional beta-alanine. TriBsyn achieved a 4.5-fold increase in plasma beta-alanine compared to the low dose and a 1.3-fold increase compared to the high dose. TriBsyn was not associated with paresthesia, while conventional beta-alanine caused increasing levels of discomfort as measured by standard sensory scales.

“The TriBsyn clinical trial results clearly showed the elimination of paresthesia and an increased pharmacokinetic efficiency, confirming enhanced delivery and exceptional bioavailability,” said Ken Wolf, President and COO of Natural Alternatives International. “With its advanced Hydro Oleo technology and carnosine-boosting effects, TriBsyn provides scientifically proven claims to improve muscle vitality, muscle working capacity, and cognitive performance. It truly sets a new standard in beta-alanine supplementation and helps fill the gap for healthy aging and wellness solutions—especially for the active aging population, GLP-1 users, and those with plant-based diets.”

Microalgae Extract for Gut and Mood Support

ZenGut, a natural microalgae extract developed by Microphyt, has been shown to significantly improve gut microbiota diversity, reduce digestive discomfort, and enhance mood in healthy adults, according to a published clinical trial in Nutrients. The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, conducted at Colorado State University, followed 56 adults with mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress who received 250mg/day of ZenGut or a placebo for four weeks.

ZenGut is sourced from the Tetradesmus obliquus Mi175.B1.a strain and contains bioactives such as alpha-linolenic acid, phenylethylamine (PEA), lutein, and phenylalanine. Key results, as outlined by Microphyt:

• Enhanced digestive health: ZenGut reduced overall GI symptoms by 23% from baseline, with significant improvements in constipation and indigestion. Participants experienced noticeable relief within just two weeks.
• Increased microbial diversity in the gut: ZenGut increased the richness of microbial species or taxa and the evenness of gut microbial distribution (Shannon’s Index), suggesting a prebiotic effect.
• Improved emotional wellbeing: Participants reported feeling less distressed, afraid, irritable, hostile, nervous, and upset, contributing to greater emotional balance and gut-brain axis support. Biomarker analysis validated these improvements, as measured by a 36% decrease in plasma chromogranin A, a stress biomarker, compared with only 3% in the placebo group.

“ZenGut is an innovative natural solution that delivers comprehensive benefits for both gut health and mental well-being,” said Dr. Jonathan Maury, Clinical Research Program Manager at Microphyt and co-author of the study. “This study reinforces the key role of the gut-brain axis in managing mental and digestive wellness and showcases the potential of microalgae ingredients to innovate in dietary supplements.”

Synbiotic for GI and Behavioral Symptoms in Autistic Children

A synbiotic intervention—with or without gut-directed hypnotherapy (GDH)—has been shown shown to significantly reduce gastrointestinal symptoms and improve behavioral and anxiety scores in autistic children, according to a randomized pilot study published in the Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders. The study involved 40 children aged 5 to 10 years diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and highlights the potential of microbiome-based interventions to support standard care for autistic children experiencing comorbid gut discomfort.

Children in both the synbiotic-only and combination (synbiotic + GDH) groups experienced a significant reduction in GI symptoms such as constipation and diarrhea, with improvements maintained at a 24-week follow-up. Behavioral gains included reduced hyperactivity and stereotypical behavior in the synbiotic group, while the combination group also showed improvements in irritability, anxiety, and social withdrawal.

“The study contributes to a growing body of evidence suggesting that modulating the gut microbiome can have far-reaching effects beyond digestion, potentially influencing GI comfort, anxiety and behavior in autistic children,” said PD Dr. Robert E Steinert, Principal Scientist at dsm-firmenich. “It represents a promising step towards a more holistic approach for managing symptoms in autistic children, and more widely, underscores the wider importance of the gut-brain axis in overall well-being.”

The study used synbiotics from dsm-firmenich’s Humiome line, including strains of L. rhamnosus GG, L. plantarum, B. lactis, and B. longum. Changes in gut microbiota composition were also observed, with increased abundance of Bifidobacterium animalis and Dialister, suggesting a link between microbial modulation and symptom improvement.

Ashwagandha Extract for Mild Cognitive Impairment

A clinical study published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology highlights the potential of Somin-On, an ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) extract standardized to 2% Sominone, to improve cognitive function in adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Developed by Arjuna Natural, the proprietary extract was associated with significant gains in immediate, working, and general memory, as well as visuospatial processing and attention.

The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial included 40 adults with MCI who received either 250 mg of Somin-On or placebo daily for 60 days. Assessments at day 30 and day 60 showed that those in the Somin-On group experienced measurable improvements on multiple memory and cognition scales, including the Wechsler Memory Scale-III, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment, and the Mini Mental State Examination.

“Our new ashwagandha formulation was developed in direct response to the rising concerns of cognitive decline among today’s aging population,” exclaims Benny Antony, Ph.D., Joint Managing Director of Arjuna Natural. “This group is actively seeking natural solutions to maintain mental clarity and focus, and help prevent any potential onset of dementia as its members age. Somin-On offers a promising, safe and natural approach for supporting brain function helping older adults stay sharp and mentally agile.”

According to the company, Sominone—the active metabolite in Somin-On—has demonstrated potential neuroprotective effects in preclinical research, including support for nerve cell repair and reduced oxidative stress. Somin-On is Arjuna’s second branded ashwagandha extract, following Shoden, which is standardized to 35% withanolide glycosides and formulated to support stress, anxiety, and sleep.

Collagen Peptides for Wrinkles, Elasticity, and Hydration

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial reinforces the beauty-from-within benefits of VERISOL, a patented collagen peptide from GELITA. The findings also highlight a newly confirmed effect, according to the company: improved skin hydration. In the eight-week study, participants taking 2.5 g of VERISOL daily experienced significant improvements in skin hydration by week four, along with reduced wrinkle volume and increased skin elasticity by week eight.

In vitro experiments with human skin cells further supported the findings, showing that VERISOL stimulated biosynthesis of collagen, elastin, hyaluronic acid, and proteoglycans in the skin’s extracellular matrix. The researchers confirmed that VERISOL derived from bovine sources is equally effective as previously studied porcine-sourced versions, expanding its relevance for global markets with specific sourcing preferences.

The company said these clinical and in vitro results were achieved with VERISOL derived from bovine sources, noting: Importantly, this study affirms that the efficacy of VERISOL from bovine sources is parallel with previously studied VERISOL sourced from porcine origins.

“Skin hydration is a prevailing consumer need, and VERISOL now offers clinical substantiation on this parameter in addition to reduced wrinkles and increased elasticity,” said Lara Niemann, GELITA’s beauty category manager.

These findings bring the number of published VERISOL-specific clinical studies to seven, underscoring the ingredient’s unique efficacy, which cannot be generalized to other collagen peptides.

Read more research news here.