Women's health is not just a niche market within the nutraceutical sector but a vital area of focus with far-reaching implications for the well-being of individuals and society as a whole.
From adolescence through to menopause and beyond, women encounter a spectrum of unique health challenges that demand specialized attention and support.
By investing in research, innovation and collaboration, the industry has the opportunity to make significant strides in improving women's health outcomes and empowering women to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives. The finalists for the Innovations in Women's Health Award are seeking to do just this.
Bone health post-menopause
Bonolive, by ingredients supplier Solabia-BioActor, is a patented olive leaf extract that aims to address both short-term and long-term menopause symptoms by supporting bone health.
It is standardized for high levels of oleuropein and has been found to support women’s post-menopausal bone health by increasing bone-producing cells, stabilizing bone mineral density and relieving joint pain. It also improves blood lipids, mood and skin appearance.
It exerts health benefits by promoting the differentiation of stem cells into osteoblasts and chondrocytes, which in turn improves bone and cartilage homeostasis. Because of this mechanism, the differentiation of stem cells in adipocytes is inhibited, lowering the storage of lipids in the body.
IFF's menopause formulations
Ingredient supplier IFF recently introduced a range of six menopause supplement concepts to the European market, targeting common menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, brain fog and weight gain. The core ingredients used in the formulations include probiotics and botanicals that are backed by clinical studies and/or traditional use.
The concepts aim to cater to different phases of menopause and carry GenM’s ‘M-Tick’ symbol, indicating menopause-friendly products. GenM’s market research results indicate that the market for menopause supplements is growing, which presents an opportunity for innovation and personalized solutions.
Through IFF’s collaboration with Gen M, it aimed to prioritize personalization within the concepts as menopause and its symptoms are not suited to a one-size-fits-all solution.
Managing HPV
Pervistop by Lo.Li. Pharma International is a supplement designed to manage persistent HPV infections in women, aiming to offer a proactive alternative to passive strategies and allow women to take control of their health by reducing the risk of HPV progression to cervical cancer. Recent data showed that HPV infections are prevalent in approximately 30% of women in the EU.
Pervistop’s formulation includes epigallocatechin gallate, hyaluronic acid, folic acid and vitamin B12, which have been shown to enhance immune response and target the underlying causes of HPV. One study concluded that a 12-week regimen of Pervistop resulted in an 85% clearance rate for HPV infections.
Winner reveal
The prestigious awards will be handed out during an exclusive VIP gathering in Geneva, Switzerland on May 15, courtesy of NutraIngredients. This event will honor outstanding initiatives and products spanning various industry sectors while also commemorating the awards' 10th anniversary.