Seven Reasons Nutraceuticals Are Essential To Your Daily Routine

Today, consumers of all ages seem to be in a desperate search for the ever-elusive fountain of youth. This is especially true among Boomers who are either in the midst of, or fast approaching, their "aging years." According to the National Center for Health Statistics, Boomers accounted for more than 76 million U.S. births between 1946 and 1964. By comparison, there were less than 66 million births during the subsequent 18-year period. This is the first time in U.S. history that such a large demographic group is approaching its aging years. As a result, these consumers, known for exuding control over their own destiny, will be setting benchmarks in terms of their needs, desires and expectations with regard to healthy aging.. 

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Despite the fact that most consumers recognize the internal/external connection of aging, many are battling serious health conditions, especially obesity and heart problems. Over time, these conditions can wreak havoc on the aging process. On the positive side, for each of these conditions, those interested in preventing them outweigh those who are actively managing them, sometimes by nearly 5:1. While older generations of consumers are much more likely than younger generations to be managing or concerned about preventing most of these conditions, younger generations are certainly not without concern about prevention, suggesting an opportunity to help them do just that..   

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Managing weight is essential for maintaining youth, both internal and external. Not surprisingly, nearly half of U.S. consumers indicate they are actively managing their weight. Weight management for appearance reasons (approximately half of consumers) is more prevalent than weight management for health reasons (about one-third of consumers). Boomers, however, are significantly more likely than any other generation to be managing weight for health benefits.   

Another interesting trend is that one-quarter of consumers now recognize that weight gain is associated with high levels of inflammation. In fact, the pathway-poor diet-inflammation-insulin resistance-weight gain-which leads to further inflammation, can become a vicious cycle. If not properly managed, inflammation may also be a factor in asthma, heart disease, cancer and other major diseases that may dramatically reduce one's lifespan and quality of life.   

More than one-third of Boomers report they are seeking ways to reduce inflammation. Interestingly, however, consumer knowledge of ingredients that have anti-inflammatory effects is almost non-existent. For instance, omega 3 fatty acids show a strong relation to inflammation reduction, yet even on an aided basis less than 10% of consumers understand the link. Strong consumer education and media messaging will be needed to get consumer buy-in for nutritional anti-inflammatory interventions.   

Stress is another cause of inflammation and thus another challenge to healthy aging. Forty-four percent of consumers indicate that they live a stressful life and look for ways to simplify it. Stressful lifestyles have been further exacerbated by the economic downturn. In fact, in a recent study by NMI, more than 40% of consumers indicated that the amount of stress in their life is mainly caused by the economic downturn.   Stress can lead to lack of sleep, which causes lack of energy and even a loss of mental focus. Lack of energy and sleep have a measurable impact on aging and quality of life. Nearly half or more consumers indicate that these conditions make them feel older than they are, while a smaller percentage agree that each makes them look older than they are. The nutraceutical industry can help consumers combat inflammation and stress by providing appropriately formulated food, beverage and supplement applications, which together with lifestyle and other behavioral modifications will lead to better health.   Interestingly, 40% of adults report they sometimes feel their life is simply out of control. 

Now more than ever, consumers are seeking balance. They are starting with areas they feel they have the most control over, including their personal health. Increasing concern about prescription medications, an expensive and faltering healthcare system, and a downturn in the economy is pushing consumers to find less expensive ways to stay healthy, including self-directed and non-traditional therapies.   Three-quarters of consumers indicate that taking vitamins and nutritional supplements is a primary way to promote healthy aging. Half of consumers indicate they are always looking for new self-care methods to prolong their health and vitality. Nutrients emerging into mainstream markets, such as omega 3 fatty acids, probiotics, vitamin D and novel peptides, can help consumers stave off weight gain, stress and inflammation, helping to maximize youth and vitality.   

Boomers want to live long, look young and remain active and healthy. The demand for anti-aging solutions is strong across all generations, but especially among the huge population of Boomers entering their "golden" years. Manufacturers, marketers and healthcare professionals face significant challenges; however, with proper assessment and planning they can be transformed into opportunities to help consumers' age both healthfully and gracefully, allowing them to make their centennial birthday wishes come true. –   

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Modern day lifestyles can often lead to higher levels of stress and anxiety. Mintel data showed women were more likely to suffer from anxiety, depression and trouble sleeping, and they reported a higher rate of stress in their lives than their male counterparts. According to Mintel, when asked about what lifestyle factors most contribute to overall health, women were most likely to cite a positive mental state (even more so than eating healthy and getting sufficient sleep). Albion’s Mr. Motyka noted that women are 70% more likely than men to experience depression in their lifetime. “Evidence is building on the role magnesium plays in the central nervous system,” he said. “Preclinical and clinical studies have implicated a relationship between magnesium homeostasis and the emotions of fear, anxiety and depression.”   

In a study published in Neuropharmacology, researchers investigated previously found evidence that magnesium had an effect on mood, emotions and reactions to stress. “In this study, the researchers observed that magnesium deficiency caused an increase in the transcription of the corticotrophin-releasing hormone in the periventricular hypothalamic nucleus, and elevated ACTH plasma levels,” according to Mr. Motyka.  “This indicates an enhanced set point in the HPA [Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal] axis. They saw that this disregulation of the HPA axis could contribute to hyper-emotionality, as a response to dietary induced hypomagnesemia.” Twinlab’s Mr. Bruno pointed to L-theanine, an amino acid found in the tea plant (Camellia sinensis) as a nutraceutical to promote relaxation and attenuate stress. This amino acid can be found in Twinlab’s L-Theanine Dots, a chewable supplement used to increase the activity of alpha waves in the brain, resulting in a state of relaxation without causing drowsiness. “L-theanine supports mental alertness while promoting relaxation,” explained Mr. Bruno. “Additionally, a clinical study found that 200 mg of L-theanine, the amount provided in four dots, may help reduce some measures of stress in as little as 15 minutes.” 

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Data from the National Osteoporosis Foundation indicate osteoporosis impacts 52 million Americans, of which 68% are women. Key nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, magnesium and vitamin K support preservation of bone mass. As women enter menopause they are particularly susceptible to low bone density and osteoporosis as their hormone levels decline.   According to Mintel, three quarters of female supplement users aged 55+ took vitamins, minerals and supplements to keep their bones healthy. Brands looking to appeal to this audience should consider delivery forms such as gummies or dissolvable strips, as women 55+ expressed interest in these novel formats.   “Osteoporosis is largely avoidable,” said Albion’s Mr. Motyka. “Given the proper nutrients, the body can repair bone damage at any age. It is never too late, but the earlier women recognize the essential need for adequate nutrient consumption, particularly calcium and magnesium, the more osteoporosis can be prevented.” 

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Heart disease is the number one killer among women, according to the American Heart Association, and 60% of all stroke victims are female. An estimated 43 million women in the U.S are affected by heart disease, and it causes one in three deaths each year—killing approximately one woman every minute.   Moreover, Hispanic and African-American women are more likely to suffer from heart problems. Hispanic women are more likely to develop heart disease a full 10 years earlier than Caucasian women, and 46.9% of African-American women ages 20 and older have cardiovascular disease.   

“There can be no doubt that cardiovascular disease should be a key concern in women’s health today,” said Barbara Davis, Ph.D., RD- director, medical and scientific affairs for PLT Health Solutions, Morristown, NJ.   To assist women in combating this epidemic, PLT offers Hytolive olive fruit extract, a 100% natural, solvent-free water extract containing a high concentration of natural hydroxytyrosol. “Hydroxytyrosol is the major phenolic compound found in olives and provides a great part of the health benefits of both olive fruit and virgin olive oil. In 2011, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) approved a heart health claim for olive oil polyphenols—the most important of which is hydroxytyrosol—for cardiovascular health. EFSA considers that polyphenols in olives—standardized by their content of hydroxytyrosol—as sufficiently characterized in relation to the claimed effects,” said Dr. Davis.   

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Moreover, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that life expectancy for women over the age of 50 is growing internationally. While environmental and behavioral factors affect life expectancy from country to country, the WHO found women on average live longer than men. The global population of older women is also projected to increase from 12% in 2011 to 19% in 2050. Despite a longer life expectancy, females face a variety of specific health concerns, ranging from cardiovascular disease to reproductive health to bone health, weight management and more. Perhaps because of this, women have been found to be more proactive about their health than men. Mintel reported that women tend to engage in more healthy habits than men, such as exercise, healthy eating and cessation of smoking. In addition, a poll from the market research firm showed women on average were more likely than men to use vitamins, minerals and supplements, with use among woman increasing with age.   

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As women end their reproductive life and enter into menopause, it can be both physically trying and emotionally difficult. As the ovaries cease to function, and stop producing the hormones estrogen and progesterone, women may experience hot flashes, sleep difficulties, vaginal dryness, urinary incontinence, mood changes and anxiety, and decreased bone density. Women may also experience forgetfulness, night sweats, weight fluctuation and joint and muscle aches or stiffness.   

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Live life to the fullest every day with Dr. Murray's Telemorx Line of Nutraceuticals.  Taken daily by thousands of people the world over every day, you'll see for yourself how they support;   

 - Healthy aging  

 - Immunity for everyday wellness  

 - Normal mood balance   

 - Healthy teeth and bones   

 - Healthy tissues and muscles   

 - Support your body’s healing and repair processes   

…Together with eating right and daily exercises you can help live a fuller, healthier life.    

Reclaim Your Youth Today! Telemorx and Telemorx Plus on www.Drmurraysonline.com   

-       Roger Murray, M.D., Fellow A.B.V.L.M., P.A.