Buckets of opportunity driven by consumer behaviour
In the current climate and with such high interest in the cognitive health category, there’s no shortage of opportunity for innovators to tap into developing specialised and enhanced solutions for cognition. Omega-3s play a significant role in supporting brain health—and it’s never too early an age to invest in optimal levels. The accumulation of DHA in the brain takes place during the brain growth spurt in the intrauterine and neonatal period up to two years of age and the high levels of DHA in the brain are maintained throughout life—which has led to a natural growth of infant formula formulated with omega-3. DHA plays a significant role in brain health, with high concentrations found in brain cell membranes.
Research and science supports how DHA in the brain positively impacts gene expression, neuroinflammation, neurotransmitter release—all contributing to healthy brain function. Over the years, additional clinical trials have investigated how mood, memory and stress are impacted through omega-3 supplementation.
Other research has consistently confirmed that high levels of omega-3 fatty acids are associated with improved cognition and slower cognitive decline in the ageing population. Some studies have also explored omega-3's ability to improve recovery from traumatic brain injuries—suggesting promising potential for sports nutrition applications.1
Although natural visual impairment becomes an increasing area of concern as we age, in today’s world, screen time being at all-time high has attracted interest from conscious consumers. Optimal overall nutrition certainly contributes to our quality of vision as we get older, but a number of ingredients have proven benefits supporting eye health.
A study investigated the effects of ALA in individuals presenting age-related macular degeneration (AMD).3 Involving 100 individuals with AMD between ages 60-83, the study assigned ALA and vitamin C supplementation over a course of three months. At the conclusion of the study, the ALA group reported increases to contrast sensitivity, improved quality of vision, and higher antioxidant power measurements.
Omega-3s have researched benefits for individuals with chronic dry eye and tear conditions. An additional study, involving a double-blind placebo-controlled trial, comprised of 105 individuals with dry-eye disease supplementing with either omega-3 EPA and DHA or linoleic acid placebo over a 12-week period.4 At the conclusion of the study, the omega-3 group reported eye health improvements—specifically osmolarity tear reduction, decreased inflammation on the ocular surface, reduced dry eye symptoms, and improved Ocular Surface Disease Index scores.
Omega-3s have long been offered in liquid format, and typical side effects of omega-3 supplementation include gastric discomfort, reflux, and unpleasant taste and smell. Additionally, pill fatigue is an industry-wide challenge as consumers move away from pills and actively seek their supplements in the form of a food or beverage—especially in the European and APAC region. Innovators have since evolved to offer capsules and soft gels that overcome issues of palatability. Additional advancements, such as microemulsion fills, acid-stable coating and slow-release technology, have further minimised symptoms to consumers and optimised absorption.
