EFSA recommends expanding sterol-stanol cholesterol claim
The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has concluded that plant stanols and sterols can more powerfully reduce cholesterol reduction after assessing fresh data. EFSA found sterol-stanol consumption of 1.5-3g per day for 2-3 weeks could lower LDL cholesterol by 11.3 or 11.4% respectively and therefore reduce the risk of coronary heart disease. «The positive opinion by […]
EFSA approves Health Claim for Vitamine E
EFSA has approved the following Health Claim for vitamin E: «Vitamin E contributes to the protection of cells from oxidative stress». The claim may be used only for food which is at least a source of vitamin E as referred to in the claim SOURCE OF [NAME OF VITAMIN/S] AND/OR [NAME OF MINERAL/S] as listed […]
Lutein, zeaxanthin may reduce cataract risk: Study
Lutein and zeaxanthin may protect the lens of the eye from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of cataracts, says a new study. The protective effects of lutein or zeaxanthin were reported to be similar to those of vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol). The study adds to an ever-growing body of science supporting the role of lutein […]
EFSA CLA safety opinion «basically good news» but novel foods stays on hold
Conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) is safe for use in foods at doses of 3-5.5g per day, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has afirmed in an opinion broadly welcomed by a key player even if novel foods approval remains elusive. EFSA considered several new studies and reports from the Netherlands, Australia, Belgium and France but […]
Vitae Caps is now Vitae Naturals
In 2011 Vitae Caps decided to chagne its corportate identity. Its new name, Vitae Naturals, reflects its aim to create top-of-the-range, extremely pure and natural products that not only enhance people’s health and well-being but also add value to the company and its customers, using raw materials and processes that support environmental conservation. These days, […]
Soy isoflavones again linked to blood pressure benefits
Daily consumption products containing soy isoflavones could help to significantly reduce blood pressure across the general population, acorrding to a new study. The research reports that consumption of the soy compound could lead to as much as a 10 mmHg drop in systolic blood pressure for people with slightly raised blood pressures – known […]
Meta-analysis supports soy isoflavones efficacy against hot flashes
Isoflavones from soy may reduce the frequency of hot flashes by 21%, according to a meta-analysis of 17 clinical trials. The analysis also revealed that soy isoflavones were effective in reducing the severity of hot flashes by about 26%. «Soy isoflavones appear to be a good first approach to alleviating hot flashes. Since tehre is […]
Lutein & zeaxanthin may reduce cataract risk
Increased levels of lutein and zeaxanthin may reduce the risk of cataract by about 40%, suggests new research. The highest average levels of lutein and zeaxanthin were associated with a 42 and 41% reduction in the risk of cataract, respectively, compared with the lowest average levels. The study adds to an ever-growing body of science […]
Study supports free phytosterols’ cholesterol lowering activity
Plant sterols in supplement form may cut cholesterol levels by as much as 5%, says a new study. Six weeks of supplementation reduced LDL cholesterol levels by 4.9% and total cholesterol by 2.8% when the supplement was used in combination with the National Cholesterol Education Programa (NCEP) therapeutic lifestyle changes (TLC) diet. Numerous clinical trials […]
Sterol and stanol players defend safety record after German review call
Sterols food players are surprised Germany’s food agency has called for a safety review of the cholesterol-lowering ingredient when, they say, the job has already been performed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) said a review was necessary after research indicated cardiovascular problems may be linked […]
