Exploring the brain health megatrend: Industry leaders innovate functional solutions for all ages

13 Aug 2024 --- Cognition-boosting solutions are emerging as a nutrition megatrend as consumers of all ages look to enhance and maintain their brain power throughout their lifespans. Older generations want to maintain cognition as the trend moves from healthy to active aging, while younger consumers seek ingredients and products that support brain health and concentration for school and college.

Innova Market Insights’ data suggests a 6% yearly increase in food and beverages and supplement launches with claims of cognitive health support from 2019 to 2023, with supplements constituting 65% of these products.

Nutrition Insight talks with experts from FrieslandCampina Ingredients and Pharmactive about the ingredients and science driving innovation in the brain health space.

Vicky Davies, the global marketing director for performance, active and medical nutrition at FrieslandCampina Ingredients, states that its Biotis DHA Flex Powder, with its high load of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), have been shown to address common cognition issues.

“There are thousands of studies that underline the benefits of omega-3s; they are truly ‘tried and tested’ ingredients,” says Davis. “Alongside the science that these ingredients can help maintain cognitive function, research continues to reveal the multi-faceted health benefits of omega-3s — especially DHA.”

“For example, the role of omega-3s in treating mood issues like depression is being increasingly studied. It’s an area that is getting increased attention as more people turn to nutrition to help cope with the pressure of modern life. There is also emerging evidence about the link between omega-3s and sleep. Some cross-sectional data over time has shown a positive relationship between the amount of eicosapentaenoic acid and DHA in the blood and sleep quality.”

Carlos Rodriguez Iglesias, the communication manager at PharmActive, also hones in on the ability of its saffron extract, Affron, to enhance cognition by supporting mood and sleep quality.

“There are over ten clinical studies conducted with Affron that showcase our product’s effectiveness in significantly improving occasional stress, mood and sleep quality,” Iglesias explains. “These studies encompass a diverse range of age groups and both genders, including adolescents and perimenopausal women.”

“Moreover, recent research has unveiled the mechanisms of action of Affron, illustrating its role in enhancing the body’s endogenous melatonin production and resilience to occasional stress.”

Ease of integration

Both companies agree that format versatility is one of the most important elements of any functional ingredient.FrieslandCampina Ingredients says its algae-derived DHA addresses consumers’ ethical sourcing concerns.

“Biotis DHA Flex Powders have been designed with formulation flexibility at their core,” Davis underscores. “Thanks to our leading microencapsulation process, the free-flowing powders have excellent mixing and solubility properties, even in cold water.”

“The ingredients can also be easily combined with other nutrients — from proteins and carbohydrates to pre-, syn-, pro- and post-biotics, vitamins and minerals — to support the development of multifunctional products that meet consumers’ expectations on efficacy and taste.”

Iglesias points out that Affron can be suitable as a key brain health-supporting ingredient for a variety of products, including supplements and functional foods.

“The versatility of Affron in terms of formulation allows for its inclusion in capsules, tablets, powders and liquids, as well as in gummies and oral strips,” he emphasizes. “These administration forms are not only appealing and easy to consume for all ages, including teenagers, young adults and older individuals, but they also allow for precise dosing and efficient absorption of the active ingredients.”

Additionally, he points out that it can be used by adolescents and older populations. 

“A clinical study demonstrates Affron’s benefits specifically on improving mood in teenagers,” Iglesias highlights. “Therefore, it is possible to use it in final products aimed at both young adults, older individuals and even children over 12 years old.”

Addressing dietary restrictions

FrieslandCampina Ingredients spotlights that its DHA solution is suitable for vegan diets and for those with ethical sourcing concerns.

“Our Biotis DHA Flex Powder uses DHA sourced from algae, which provides the same health benefits as traditional fish-based omega-3s,” Davis reveals. “Many consumers struggle to find food, drink and supplements that contain DHA, have an appealing taste and fit their vegetarian or vegan lifestyles.”

“This range creates an opportunity to overcome these common barriers for omega-3 consumption and develop effective vegan and vegetarian options, helping meet the needs of consumers with diverse dietary preferences.”Pharmactive’s saffron extract, Affron, has been shown to support restful sleep and mood.

Iglesias at Pharmactive agrees, noting that the company also ensures its Affron ingredient is vegan, non-GMO and gluten-free.

“This approach allows us to provide cognitive support solutions that align with various lifestyle and health preferences, ensuring that individuals seeking to improve their cognitive health, mood and sleep quality can do so without compromising their dietary restrictions or values,” he states.

Looking to the future

Iglesias stresses that Pharmactive is always innovating and continually explores and researches cutting-edge ingredients to improve cognitive health.

“Our dedication to innovation ensures that we remain at the forefront of cognitive health advancements, always ready to provide our customers with the most effective, scientifically-backed solutions for their cognitive well-being,” he states.

Davis tells us that FrieslandCampina Ingredients is continually researching new ingredients and blends, aiming to enhance the well-being of consumers. She adds that the combination of DHA and protein, which could bolster both physical and mental health, is a promising future formulation.

Furthermore, she states that there are current studies looking at the potential effects of omega-3s on mood, anxiety, stress and relaxation, which could lead to more tailored nutritional strategies.

“These areas are certainly a point of interest for further study, and we see plenty of opportunities for new product development in the future — particularly with more holistic solutions,” Davis concludes. “Our Biotis GOS ingredient, for example, has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety via the gut-brain axis.”

“Innovation is at the heart of everything we do, and we’re always on the lookout for ways for more and better ways to help consumers get the most out of life, always. We’re working to develop ingredient solutions that offer in-demand health benefits such as cognitive health — watch this space.”

By William Bradford Nichols