The company is showing greater interest in the visual health market.
Martek Biosciences (Columbia, MD) is releasing an eye health formula, Life’sDHA Plus+, incorporating lutein and zeaxanthin with the company’s branded omega-3 docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), Life’sDHA.
“DHA is a very large component of the eye and there have been some associations between higher DHA levels and lower risk for some eye diseases, especially as you age,” said Martek spokeswoman Cassandra France-Kelly in an interview with Nutritional Outlook.
Recently published science is supporting the theory that DHA benefits in eye health in several areas. In one study published in the British Journal of Opthalmology, 2924 patients from the famous AREDS eye health study were assessed for DHA intake and higher intake of the nutrient was linked to reduced incidence of age-related macular disease (AMD). A link between higher DHA levels and reduced AMD risk was also observed in a recent study where AMD donor eyes were found to have reduced DHA levels and greater omega-6 to omega-3 ratios compared to non-AMD donor eyes. This study was published in August at the Journal of Lipid Research.
Several studies on infants have also drawn associations between high DHA and improved visual acuity.
Zeaxanthin and lutein, two carotenoids found naturally in the eye’s macula, are known to deplete with age and have been the subject of a wealth of in vitro, animal, and human clinical trials. The two ingredients are seeing increased attention with the Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2), an ongoing federally-funded multi-year study in which intake of these nutrients (along with omega-3s) is being assessed in 4,200 human patients at risk of AMD.
The sources of carotenoids in Martek’s formula are Floraglo Lutein, manufactured by Kemin Health (Des Moines, IA), and Zeagold zeaxanthin, manufactured by Kalsec Inc. (Kalamazoo, MI).
The Nutritional Outlook Podcast Episode 36: Best of the Industry Service Provider, Radicle Science
December 26th 2024Nutritional Outlook's managing editor, Sebastian Krawiec, interviews Radicle Science co-founders, Pelin Thorogood and Jeff Chen, MD. Radicle Science has been selected as this year's Best of the Industry, Service Provider.
Hard to compete with horseradish
January 10th 2025Fun fact! Horseradish can be difficult to eradicate once it’s established. This is because the smallest piece of root can grow a new plant. Additionally, the plant spreads by underground shoots that out-compete most other plants which means horseradish can become invasive if not maintained.
Balchem’s Newest Launch Optifolin+® Brings Innovation to the Folate Market
November 15th 2024Supplement launches featuring 5-MTHF are on the rise with double digit growth. In this episode of Nutritional Outlook’s podcast, we explore Optifolin+®, a new ingredient in the market that offers essential nutrition from prenatal through adulthood. Join us as we uncover the potential impact of the next evolution in folate, setting the stage for a healthier future.