Pendulum's Colleen Cutcliffe unpacks the launch of Gut Fuel, a prebiotic fiber and polyphenol blend designed to support gut and metabolic health. "This isn’t your grandma’s Metamucil," she said, explaining how the product targets the fiber gap, feeds beneficial microbes and offers a low-FODMAP option. The conversation also dives into the rise of GLP-1, the microbiome’s role in metabolic function and the surge of questionable GLP-1 claims. Cutcliffe underscores the importance of science-backed innovation and credible education to help consumers cut through the noise.
New research published in Nature Communications shows that coffee consumption alters the gut microbiome and may influence cognition, mood, and behaviour through the microbiota–gut–brain axis. The study found that both caffeinated and decaffeinated coffee affect brain function, immune response, inflammation, and beneficial gut bacteria, highlighting coffee’s role in mental health and metabolic health.
Rep. Nick Langworthy has introduced H.R. 7366, the Dietary Supplement Regulatory Uniformity Act, aiming to clarify federal preemption and prevent states from imposing dietary supplement regulations that differ from federal law, except in specific cases where stricter state rules address local issues without conflicting with federal requirements. Supporters, including the Natural Products Association, argue that the bill would reinforce a single, science-based national standard for supplement regulation, addressing the challenges posed by varying state laws such as ingredient bans and age restrictions.
Health Canada’s Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD) has published a prebiotics monograph, establishing a regulatory framework for prebiotic ingredients and claims in Canada, based on ISAPP’s 2017 definition. The monograph lists accepted prebiotic substances, clarifies the distinction between prebiotics and fiber, and was developed in collaboration with industry groups such as the International Probiotics Association (IPA) and Global Prebiotics Association (GPA). Both associations praised the process for its transparency and collaborative approach, while GPA noted the need for ongoing engagement to include emerging ingredients. The NNHPD emphasized its regulatory independence throughout the process and plans to present further details at the upcoming Probiota Americas conference.
The supplement industry is largely united in advocating for a broad, innovation-driven interpretation of the term “dietary substance” under DSHEA, urging the FDA to recognize substances beyond those traditionally present in the food supply. Stakeholders agree that manufacturing methods alone should not redefine ingredient identity or trigger new regulatory hurdles, instead emphasizing safety and measurable characteristics. Industry groups call for clear, science-based criteria for ingredient identity and sameness, particularly for complex substances like proteins and probiotics, and support transparent labeling that distinguishes between traditional and modern production techniques. The consensus is that regulatory focus should remain on safety and evidence, enabling innovation while maintaining rigorous oversight through existing mechanisms.
Featuring more than 1,600 exhibitors, Vitafoods Europe 2026 is set to bring more than 30,000 delegates to Barcelona next week (5-7 May), making it the largest show to date.
From beauty-from-within hydration to microplastic defense and next-gen energy formats, this month’s launches highlight how brands are rethinking everyday wellness with more targeted, lifestyle-driven solutions.
Vitafoods Europe 2026 Barcelona expands 20% with a new hall, updated zones, enhanced networking spaces, Startup Challenge, Innovation Awards, and sustainability focus on circularity, upcycling, and AI-driven ingredient innovation with MeNow. Key trends include GLP-1 nutrition solutions, nutricosmetics, healthy ageing, gut health, and cognitive wellbeing, alongside regional market content and ESSNA regulatory sessions (05–07 May 2026).
The supplementation of the plant extract Pennisetum purpureum Schumach could improve hand grip strength in adults showing signs of early-stage sarcopenia, says a new 12-week study from Taiwan.
Being raised in a family of mycology researchers in Spain helped shape Dr. Catalina Fernández de Ana Portela’s 25-year career studying medicinal fungi.
Infinite Epigenetics has acquired Tally Health, combining their epigenetic testing and analytics capabilities with Tally Health’s consumer-facing longevity brand and supplement offerings. The deal brings together the largest private DNA methylation dataset, enabling enhanced validation of interventions like nutrition and supplements across broader populations. Tally Health will continue as a standalone brand while gaining access to Infinite Epigenetics’ laboratory infrastructure and expanded datasets, supporting more data-driven product development and iterative formulation. Both companies will use the combined platform to link epigenetic testing data with downstream interventions and continuously evaluate their impact on biological aging.
Despite creatine being one of the most researched supplements in the world, concerns about its safety persist, particularly when it comes to high-dose, long-term supplementation.
Vitafoods Europe 2026 will present 37 hours of educational content covering trends such as gut health, healthspan and longevity, GLP-1 medications, and cognitive health. The programme also examines developments in performance nutrition, nutricosmetics, and science-led approaches across the nutraceutical sector.
India's BigMuscles Nutrition sees growth opportunities in sports nutrition, but challenges in misinformation, price sensitivity and product quality remain
On April 16, the Indian government issued an advisory restricting the use of ashwagandha leaves in crude or extract or any other form in food products, catching many industry stakeholders by surprise.
A free webinar hosted by NutraIngredients on April 28 will explore the evolving men’s health supplement sector, which is valued at just under $2 billion and remains smaller than the women’s health market. Industry experts from GNC, CPG Radar, and Holon Law Partners will discuss trends such as the shift in men’s supplement needs toward sports, longevity, and nuanced testosterone support, as well as differences in need states across generations. The event is supported by companies including CHERESO, PLT Health Solutions, and Saanroo, all of which supply ingredients and products for men’s health.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found that an eight-week supplementation with a fasting mimetic containing spermidine, nicotinamide, PEA, and OEA led to significant improvements in cholesterol, fasting glucose, and hunger regulation in older adults with elevated cardiometabolic risk. The study, conducted remotely using People Science’s digital platform, demonstrated that the supplement mimicked some metabolic benefits of fasting, including improved appetite control and reduced abdominal discomfort, without requiring participants to skip meals.
New research shows that whey protein combined with resistance exercise under calorie restriction may help reduce hepatic steatosis in metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). The study found increased irisin levels, a key metabolic biomarker, were linked to reduced liver fat and improved liver health outcomes.
A Croatian cross-sectional study published in Nutrients found that folate deficiency was more common in children with atopic diseases and asthma, and was associated with higher IgE levels and eosinophilic inflammation, suggesting a potential link between folate status and childhood allergic outcomes. However, after adjusting for age the association with asthma disappeared, indicating that while folic acid may influence immune regulation and allergy risk, causality remains unproven and further research is needed.
Australia's myBrainCo partners StirlingFildes Plus to leverage its connections in the pharmacy industry, a sector it is looking to establish a foothold in
New data from Spate reveals how symptom-led search and rising demand for personalized supplements, including custom probiotics, are reshaping US supplement trends and category growth.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that an antioxidant-rich synbiotic supplement significantly improved skin elasticity, firmness, and reduced wrinkle severity in women over eight weeks, without adverse effects. The supplement, containing astaxanthin, konjac glucomannan, and other ingredients, was shown to act through the gut-skin axis by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, and preserving collagen and elastin. These findings support the potential of oral synbiotic supplementation as a safe, non-invasive strategy for managing skin aging and improving dermatological health.
Kenyan athlete Sabastian Sawe set a marathon world record in London (1:59:30) by breaking the two-hour barrier, supported by Maurten through advanced sports nutrition, carb loading, and a personalized fueling strategy averaging 115g carbohydrates per hour. The performance relied on optimized glycogen stores, hydrogel-based fueling, gut training, and scientific monitoring (VO2 max, lactate, energy expenditure) to delay fatigue, enhance endurance, and maximize race-day efficiency.
A new pilot study conducted in Taiwan showed that the supplementation of nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) could lower inflammation in young men who have undergone blood flow restriction-resistance exercise.
South Korea’s Ministry of Food and Drug Safety (MFDS) has reiterated its ban on some of the commonly used ingredients in health supplements, including Gymnema sylvestre and Bacopa.
The early-bird entry fee for the NutraIngredients-Asia Awards 2026 closes this Thursday (April 30). Save US$50 on each entry submitted before this date.
A new clinical study from OmniActive Health Technologies found that Capsimax, a capsicum extract, significantly increased GLP-1 levels by 13% after seven days of supplementation and improved exercise performance in resistance-trained men. The research highlights Capsimax’s potential as a non-stimulant supplement for weight management and sports nutrition, supporting metabolism, muscle endurance, and resting energy expenditure. The study also supports the use of plant-derived compounds for reducing oxidative stress and enhancing recovery in athletes. Capsimax’s consumer-friendly formulation offers thermogenic and metabolic benefits without the harsh effects typically associated with capsaicin.
NOW Foods has launched its first vitamin gummies—Vitamin C and Vitamin D3—after a six-year development process to meet its quality standards. The gummies, designed for adults and children ages four and up, are gelatin-free, made in the U.S., and respond to growing consumer demand for convenient, great-tasting supplement formats. Gummies now represent 25% of the supplement market, with the sector projected to grow significantly in the coming years. While the gummy category is mature in the U.S., growth continues in Europe, especially with new ingredients.
A 12-week randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of vitamin K2 MK-7 supplementation on neuromuscular function in healthy adults, focusing on younger (18–40) and older (65+) age groups. While no impact was found on recovery outcomes such as muscle strength or soreness across the full cohort, older adults showed improved neuromuscular signaling, specifically a shorter electromechanical delay after supplementation. The study suggests vitamin K2 may influence neural-to-muscle communication in aging populations, though the underlying mechanisms remain unclear and further research, especially in the 40–65 age group, is needed.
Hero Group has acquired The Gut Stuff to expand its presence in the fast-growing gut health and high-fibre snacking market, leveraging rising consumer demand and strong category growth. The deal will accelerate innovation, NPD and international expansion while reinforcing the shift of gut health from niche wellness trend to mainstream food and beverage priority.
UK-based CBD brand Trip has expanded its night-time offering with the launch of its new Dream Blend range, comprised of Dream Gummies and Dream Powder.
Men’s health has historically been defined by muscle and performance, but new data from Nextin Research suggests that’s starting to shift. From immunity and heart health to mood and longevity, men are expanding how they think about wellness—and starting to put as much effort into long-term wellness as they do into the gym. This suggests a shift from reactive, performance-driven health to a more proactive and everyday approach to wellness.
Regulators, legal experts and company executives weigh in as the FTC’s TruHeight case signals increased scrutiny of clinical claims and incentivized reviews in supplements.
Inside The Vitamin Shoppe's new innovation store, the company is piloting Shoppe Advisor, an AI-powered discovery tool designed to bring together digital insight and in-store expertise. For years, supplement shopping has relied on either knowledgeable staff or online content, rarely both at the same time. According to Uman Chan, principal director, customer experience technology at The Vitamin Shoppe, the tool aims to close that gap, strengthening consumer education while elevating the in-store experience.
Much of the recent supplement science is focused on how to boost strength, endurance and recovery to keep men of all ages performing at their best. Studies are still focused on the muscle and oxidative stress remediation needed for resilience and recovery but are expanding scope to consider the myriad factors that contribute to both execution and the rebound from the field to the bedroom.
GLP-1 drugs are reshaping the supplement category, fueling demand for products that address nutrient gaps, side effects and weight management as 2.5 billion adults worldwide are overweight and 890 million live with obesity, according to the World Health Organization.
Women’s health brand Valerie is dropping the “perimenopause” terminology from its positioning, instead focusing on female hormone health for women 35+ to improve early symptom recognition, reduce stigma, and better connect with consumers experiencing hormonal changes. The brand continues its liposomal nutrient delivery products, including Daily Essential and Evening Essential, while pivoting its marketing strategy after its award-winning “Peri-Paradox” campaign and aiming to address midlife symptoms, delayed care, and women’s wellness without restrictive labels.
A crossover study in young adult males found that post-workout coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation can improve resistance exercise performance and recovery.
The deadline to submit an abstract for an oral presentation or a poster display at the 19th International Scientific Conference on Probiotics, Prebiotics, Gut Microbiota and Health (IPC) is fast-approaching.
Japanese food, snacks and nutrition company Calbee is partnering with the Singapore microbiome firm AMILI in bringing personalized nutrition to the country.
Rep. Maxine Dexter has introduced the Dietary Supplement Listing Act of 2026 in the House, aiming to require dietary supplement manufacturers to register their products and ingredients with the FDA, improve transparency, and create a product database. The bill is supported by some industry groups advocating for modernization and greater oversight, but faces opposition from others concerned about regulatory burdens and industry innovation. The legislation follows previous, unsuccessful Senate efforts led by Sen. Dick Durbin, and controversy continues over the number of adverse events linked to supplements. While the bill’s future in Congress is uncertain, it reflects ongoing debate about balancing consumer safety, transparency, and industry interests.
As men’s health and the conversations around it continue to evolve, sexual wellness is increasingly being viewed as more than just a performance-driven category. From cardiovascular function to metabolic health, growing evidence suggests it can serve as an important window into broader health issues. However, while the market and consumer behavior remain largely focused on quick fixes, there are signs that this mindset is beginning to evolve.
A free NutraIngredients webinar on April 28 will explore the evolving men’s health supplement market, which is valued at just under $2 billion and remains smaller than the women’s health segment. The event will examine shifts in male consumer behavior, growth in needs like longevity and energy, generational differences, and marketing strategies for testosterone support. Industry leaders from GNC, CPG Radar, and Holon Law Partners will share insights, with sponsorship from companies such as CHERESO, PLT Health Solutions, and Saanroo. Registration is required to attend.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial found that daily supplementation with a sustained release ashwagandha extract (Prolanza) for 60 days significantly reduced stress, improved sleep quality, and enhanced psychological well-being in healthy adults experiencing moderate stress. Both 150 mg and 300 mg doses were effective, with the higher dose also reducing cortisol levels and stress-related eating behaviors. The study, funded by Nutriventia and Laila Nutra, supports the efficacy of once-daily Prolanza supplementation for stress management and overall wellness.
Yakult Europe has launched Vitals, a dairy-free, soy-based functional drink enriched with vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, and zinc to support immunity, digestion, energy, and cognitive health. The new product marks a strategic expansion beyond probiotics, targeting plant-based consumer trends and broader wellness in the growing European dairy alternatives market.
Acute citrulline malate (CM) supplementation (8 g) in trained male sprinters showed a modest improvement in repeated 100 m sprint performance and reduced perceived exertion during the second sprint in a randomized, double-blind crossover study. The findings suggest potential benefits for recovery, blood lactate response, and fatigue reduction, possibly via nitric oxide and metabolic effects, though mechanisms remain uncertain.
The supplementation of probiotics could significantly reduce functional constipation in pre-schoolers, according to a 28-day randomised controlled trial conducted in Vietnam.
Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has begun a consultation with stakeholders on removing Andrographis paniculata (Andrographis) from the list of low-risk ingredients permitted for use in listed medicines, including complementary medicines or health supplements.
The testosterone support market is growing in the United States and brands and ingredient suppliers are meeting the challenge to provide customers with safe and efficacious products.
A UK pilot study suggests that shifts in the oral microbiome during female aging, particularly menopause, may impact periodontal risk and cardiovascular health through changes in nitrate-reducing bacteria and associated biochemical pathways. The study found age- and menopause-related increases in gum disease-associated bacteria and blood pressure, but did not observe a clear overall shift in oral microbiome diversity. These findings highlight the need for larger, hormone-verified studies to clarify the interplay between hormones, aging, and oral microbial function. Personalized oral health care for menopausal women may be warranted if further research confirms these links.
A randomized, placebo-controlled study published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science found that Levagen+ (PEA) significantly improved mobility and functional measures in dogs and cats. The research builds on prior human clinical evidence,
New research published in the International Journal of Molecular Science finds that daily intake of Saskatoon berries (40 g, 10 weeks) improves cardiometabolic health—lowering fasting glucose, LDL cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation—while increasing dietary fiber, anthocyanins, and vitamin C in healthy adults. These effects link to gut microbiota modulation (↑Prevotellaceae, ↑SCFAs), suggesting benefits for metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular risk, though larger clinical trials are needed.
Transparency is no longer optional —it’s becoming expected. That’s the driving force behind a new initiative from the Future Nutra Foundation, which is conducting independent product testing and releasing the results publicly.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study found that daily supplementation with either a multi-herb adaptogen blend or an ashwagandha root formula from Gaia Herbs over 60 days significantly reduced stress, fatigue, and anxiety in highly stressed adults. Both formulations improved sleep quality and stress measures compared to placebo, with the ashwagandha formula leading to greater improvements in stress and sleep, while the multi-herb blend provided more sustained mood benefits. The products were safe and well-tolerated, supporting formulation-specific benefits for stress management. The U.S. adaptogen market is valued at $4 billion and continues to grow as consumers seek natural solutions for stress and sleep issues.
Bioscience entrepreneur Dr. Bill Barclay took home the GOED Lifetime Achievement Award at the latest edition of GOED Exchange held in Singapore for his discovery and technique for producing microalgae-derived omega-3.
Pendulum Therapeutics expands its Mayo Clinic collaboration to advance clinical research on microbiome-based interventions in women’s health, menopause and dermatology, signaling a broader push toward evidence-backed applications beyond metabolic health.
A new fMRI study from the University of Vermont found that a single dose of 1,650 mg of choline (VitaCholine) rapidly increased functional connectivity within the working memory network in post-menopausal women, though it did not improve working memory performance. The research highlights the potential for choline supplementation to enhance brain network efficiency in women with low estrogen, a group at higher risk for choline deficiency, and underscores the importance of tailored nutrition research for women’s health.
Solar Foods secures a US patent for its gas fermentation process used to produce Solein, strengthening its competitive moat as it scales air-based protein production from pilot to global commercialization.
Biotics are one of the fastest growing categories within the dietary supplement industry, but strict regulations within the European Union often prevent supplement companies from effectively communicating their benefits.
UK Heights multivitamin clinical study (Nutrition Society Conference) found that targeted multivitamin supplementation corrected widespread micronutrient deficiencies in healthy adults within 12 weeks, including riboflavin, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folate, while significantly lowering elevated homocysteine levels linked to long-term health risks. The research highlights “hidden” vitamin deficiencies in modern UK and European diets due to ultra-processed foods and declining nutrient density, suggesting multinutrient supplementation and updated UK dietary guidelines may be needed to improve population health.
Menopause supplement science is moving away from broad claims toward more personalized, mechanism‑driven applications. Ingredients including nitrates, krill oil, soy isoflavones royal jelly and targeted probiotics are demonstrating measurable benefits in defined endpoints—from muscle quality and bone health to skin, sexual function and vasomotor symptoms—while many others deliver narrower or context‑dependent effects. Finding indicate that outcomes are increasingly shaped by formulation, dose, duration, co‑interventions, baseline health and even genetics.
Aussie brand Savvy releases RTD functional beverage for reducing stress and anxiety while maintaining mental performance, and needs of menopausal women
