Beyond The Headlines: Gencor’s Levagen clinically shown to ease allergies, NPA files complaint against supplements law

08 Dec 2023 --- This week in nutrition news, Gencor’s Levagen+ nutraceutical ingredient was found to reduce seasonal allergy symptoms. At the same time, the Natural Products Association (NPA) filed a complaint challenging a recent ruling on the restriction of dietary supplements. Meanwhile, Kyowa Hakko published its progress in meeting its sustainability goals.

Industry news 
A recent human clinical trial suggested that Gencor’s Levagen+ has the potential to ease seasonal allergies. The study involved 101 participants with seasonal allergies, showing that a daily 350 mg supplement of Levagen+ significantly reduced plasma histamine levels compared to the placebo group. The trial also demonstrated a notable decrease in inflammatory markers, including histamine, IL-4, IL-8, IL-10 and TNF-α. Levagen+ is a bioavailable palmitoylethanolamide with self-affirmed GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) status, clinically tested for joint health, sleep, recovery and immunity support, making it applicable for various health supplements.

A human clinical trial suggests Gencor’s Levagen+ has the potential to ease seasonal allergies.The NPA has filed a complaint in the US District Court for the Eastern District of New York, US, challenging the constitutionality of the state’s recently enacted law restricting dietary supplements for consumers under 18 years of age. The law limits public access to these products and sometimes mandates a prescription for their acquisition, with fines for non-compliance. NPA’s president and CEO, Daniel Fabricant, criticized Governor Hochul’s decision, asserting it prioritizes politics over the health of New Yorkers. The NPA argued that the law is unconstitutional and jeopardizes the wellness routines of nearly 80% of US citizens who rely on dietary supplements. The complaint lists violations, including conflicts with the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA). It seeks relief by declaring the Act unconstitutional or preempted by the FFDCA and restraining the Attorney General’s Office from enforcing it.

Kyowa Hakko Bio, a member of the Kirin Group and parent company of Kyowa Hakko USA, unveiled its first Creating Shared Value (CSV) progress report, outlining its impact on global health and sustainability. The report delved into the company’s vision, environmental policies, management, target goals and progress, all aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Initiatives include a commitment to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and transitioning to renewable energy by 2040.

Nutrition news 
GC Rieber VivoMega, a key player in sustainable marine and vegan omega-3 concentrates, received the V-Label certification, a globally recognized vegan and vegetarian trademark. This certification validates the product’s adherence to specific vegan or vegetarian criteria. According to the company, VivoMega Algae Oil — extracted through its Superlight proprietary technology — ensures low heat exposure, protection from oxidation and optimal resource utilization with minimal waste. Aligned with EU Green Deal initiatives and UN Global Compact guidelines, VivoMega aims for improved oxidation levels, ensuring freshness for three years with optimal taste, smell and color.

Kraft Heinz’s MiO moved to address the rise in Gen-Z’s reliance on energy drinks with its new “Energy Drink Insurance.” Aimed at compensating for the adverse effects of traditional energy drinks, MiO allows participants to submit claims describing their experiences, with compensation ranging from US$50–200, along with free MiO Energy. The initiative responds to the 55% of people facing issues like jitters and fatigue due to high sugar, artificial additives and dehydrating ingredients in energy drinks. The company emphasized MiO’s role in preventing unwelcome energy side effects while offering a more uplifting alternative.

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston launched a pioneering lifestyle program focused on individuals at risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular conditions. The 12-month Teaching Kitchen Multi-site Trial integrates evidence-based nutrition education with hands-on cooking classes, physical activity and mindfulness training to foster behavior change. The study evaluates the program’s impact on health outcomes and overall well-being. Participants aged 21–70, with a body mass index of 25–40 and specific metabolic risk factors, will attend 16 in-person and eight virtual classes, receiving free ingredients for the cooking sessions. 

Product launches 
Colorcon, a healthcare film coating systems, excipients and functional packaging provider, introduced Corelease Controlled Release Formulated Systems, a unified brand consolidating its controlled release products. This strategic move aims to simplify the pharmaceutical sector’s development and manufacturing processes for controlled release technologies. Corelease initially features two coatings — Corelease EC for sustained release and taste-masking applications and Corelease CA for consistent release from push-pull osmotic pump tablets. The company plans to expand the range in 2024, introducing blends that enhance osmotic tablet production efficiency. 

ResBiotic introduced Prebeet, a 4-in-1 microbiome boost developed by physicians, designed to enhance energy, digestion, skin balance and heart health. The caffeine-free solution combines a clinically studied prebiotic-resistant potato starch, pure whole beetroot and methylated B12. Known for its well-tolerated ingredients, prebeet promotes a digestion-friendly experience without caffeine, jitters or artificial additives. The blend, featuring a nostalgic taste of fresh berries, is positioned as suitable for starting or winding down the day. The product’s science-backed approach includes increasing beneficial gut bacteria, supporting heart and circulatory health and aiding nervous system and brain cell function. 

Study reveals US citizens tend to overindulge in food, take a break from exercise and have less time for self-care during the holiday season.Scientific research
A recent study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease, delved into the impact of specific dietary factors on Alzheimer’s disease risk. The research emphasized the role of plant-based diets, like the Mediterranean diet and traditional diets in China, Japan and India, in reducing the risk compared to the Western diet. Conversely, higher consumption of saturated fats, red meat, processed meats and ultra-processed foods was associated with increased risk factors. Protective foods included green leafy vegetables, colorful fruits, legumes, nuts, omega-3 fatty acids and whole grains. The study also highlighted the link between dietary and lifestyle patterns, obesity and Alzheimer’s disease risk, projecting a 50% increase in Alzheimer’s rates in the US by 2038 based on obesity trends. The findings underscored the potential risk reduction achievable through dietary changes.

According to a survey by The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, US citizens found it challenging to maintain healthy habits during the festive season. The study revealed that two-thirds of participants tended to overindulge in food, approximately 45% take a break from exercise and over half feel fatigued with less time for self-care. Additionally, about a third admitted to drinking more alcohol during the holidays. Family medicine physician Dr. Barbara Bawer recommended trying to stick to a normal routine as much as possible and suggested planning ahead for diet, maintaining exercise schedules, prioritizing sleep and being mindful of alcohol consumption to help preserve healthy habits during the holiday season.

By Milana Nikolova