Gut Health

Gut Health

Supporting gut health through functional ingredient systems
The gut is increasingly recognised as a central hub in the regulation of digestion, immunity, metabolic activity and inflammatory response. Innovations in functional formulation now allow for ingredient systems to modulate key aspects of microbial balance, intestinal barrier integrity, and fermentation metabolites, contributing to improved gut-associated outcomes.

Role of the gut microbiota in product development
A well-balanced gut microbiota plays a key role in:

  1. Nutrient assimilation and digestive efficiency.
  2. Modulation of inflammatory markers via gut-derived signaling molecules.
  3. Production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), which contribute to energy metabolism and mucosal health.
  4. Neurotransmitter precursor activity, with potential influence on mood, energy regulation and appetite signaling.
  5. Dysbiosis, or disruption of microbial homeostasis, is associated with intestinal discomfort, reduced immune resilience, and increased susceptibility to metabolic alterations.

Functional contribution of NOW® ingredient systems

NOW® Weight (8 g/day in two 4 g doses)

Carob-derived functional system rich in inositols and polyphenols, designed to support microbial activity and gut comfort. Documented physiological effects include:

  1. Promotion of beneficial microbiota, including fermentative and immuno-supportive species.
  2. Improved intestinal transit and perception of digestive regularity.
  3. Support for intestinal barrier integrity via modulation of local inflammation.
  4. Enhancement of SCFA production, contributing to epithelial health and metabolic homeostasis.

Formulation opportunities include:

  1. Fibre-enriched nutritional blends.
  2. Gut health-supporting meal replacements.
  3. Functional powders or shots targeting digestive comfort.

NOW® Energy (2 × 3.35 g/day)

Although not a fibre source, NOW® Energy modulates gut-related mechanisms through alternative metabolic pathways:

  1. Stabilisation of postprandial glycaemic response, indirectly influencing microbiota profiles.
  2. Reinforcement of gut barrier function through inositol-mediated regulation of intestinal permeability.
  3. Reduction in pro-inflammatory cytokines at the epithelial level.
  4. Favourable shifts in microbial composition, supported by antioxidant activity of polyphenolic components.

Applications include:

  1. Antioxidant-rich beverages or powdered sachets.
  2. Formulations targeting intestinal permeability and systemic inflammatory tone.

Scientific support
The interaction between carob-derived D-pinitol, inositols, and polyphenols with the gastrointestinal environment has been described in multiple peer-reviewed scientific publications. These studies support:

  1. Improved gut epithelial function.
  2. Enhanced microbial metabolite output (SCFAs).
  3. Measurable shifts in microbiota profiles.

Technical documentation and clinical summaries are available to industry partners under NDA.

DISCLAIMER FOR B2B USE ONLY
This communication is intended solely for professional use within the food and nutraceutical industry. It does not constitute a nutrition or health claim in the sense of Regulation (EC) No 1924/2006. All physiological effects described are based on preclinical and clinical evaluations of ingredient functionality. Final product manufacturers are responsible for legal compliance of consumer-facing claims.