The dietary supplements industry has been undergoing a significant transformation in recent years. Gone are the days of basic vitamins and minerals dominating the shelves. Today, we’re witnessing a surge in new-age supplements, each promising enhanced health benefits backed by scientific innovation and research.
One of the most notable shifts in the supplement industry is the focus on personalized nutrition. With advancements in genetic testing and AI-driven analysis, it’s now possible to tailor supplement regimens to an individual’s unique needs and health goals.
Who isn’t looking for a bit of an edge these days? We’re all trying to squeeze the most out of our bodies and minds, especially with packed schedules and so much daily stress. That’s why fancy-sounding supplements like nootropics and adaptogens have been stirring up serious buzz. The promises almost sound too good to be true – heightened focus for peak job performance, calmer nerves in tense moments, effortless sleep despite crazyboxer hours. In this blog, I’m going to give you the rundown on some of the most talked-about modern supplements: adaptogens, nootropics, and other compounds that people are adding to things like smoothies and morning coffee
. What do these substances actually do? Why are people scrambling to get their hands on them? And most importantly, are they safe and helpful or just empty promises in shiny packages?
Nature’s Stress Busters – Adaptogens
Adaptogens, a unique class of herbal ingredients, are gaining recognition for their ability to enhance the body’s resistance to stress. Key players in this category include ashwagandha, rhodiola, and holy basil. These herbs have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and are now becoming integral to modern wellness practices.
Why Becoming Popular:
The primary benefit of adaptogens lies in their ability to modulate the body’s stress response. Ashwagandha is known for its calming effects, particularly in reducing cortisol levels, the body’s stress hormone. Rhodiola offers benefits for mental clarity and energy, making it a go-to for combating fatigue. Holy basil, or Tulsi, supports overall adrenal health, helping the body to maintain balance during stressful periods.
Recent studies bolster the claims surrounding adaptogens. Research published by the ‘J Altern Complement Med’ found that ashwagandha effectively reduces stress and anxiety. Another study in ‘Phytomedicine’ reported that rhodiola exhibits anti-fatigue effects, enhancing mental performance under stress. Holy basil’s efficacy in reducing stress symptoms was highlighted in a study from the ‘Nepal Medical College Journal’. These studies provide a scientific foundation for the stress-reducing claims of adaptogens, confirming their role as effective tools in managing modern-day stressors.
Legal Concerns:
- Unlike synthetic pharmaceuticals, most natural nootropics derived from herbs, amino acids, etc. are not regulated by organizations like the FDA. This means quality control falls mainly on the manufacturer.
- Safety testing and clinical research on many nootropics is limited compared to stringently vetted prescription drugs. So potency claims should be critically evaluated.
- Purity is a potential issue – contaminated or adulterated ingredient batches do sometimes slip into supplements. Third-party testing can help validate quality.
- Nootropics derived from controlled substances – like synthetic noopept mimicking a racetam or picamilon delivering GABA – can skirt regulations if not directly named illegal. Laws try addressing analogous gray areas.
- Synergistic stacks and formulas should be approached cautiously as interactions may exist. Seeking professional medical advice rather than self-experimenting is best practice.
Nootropics – The Brain Boosters
Nootropics, often referred to as “smart drugs” or cognitive enhancers, are substances that aim to improve mental functions such as memory, creativity, focus, and motivation in healthy individuals. They work by altering the availability of the brain’s supply of neurochemicals, enzymes, or hormones, enhancing cognitive function and brain health.
Among the various nootropics, modafinil stands out for its wakefulness-promoting properties, commonly used in treating narcolepsy. Racetams, including piracetam, are known for their memory-enhancing effects and neuroprotective properties. Natural nootropics, like Ginkgo biloba, have been used for centuries and are praised for their ability to improve blood flow to the brain and enhance cognitive functions.
Why Becoming Popular:
The science, however, still needs time to catch up with the hype. Research on popular picks like the prescription smart drug modafinil does suggest legitimate benefits to attention, learning and brainy endeavors that demand sharp executive thinking. Other stalwarts like ginkgo biloba, steeped in centuries of traditional use for mental clarity, and “racetam” compounds that affect neurotransmitters, are still being put to the test in clinical trials with mixed and incomplete results so far.
Ginkgo biloba, backed by centuries of traditional use, has been studied for its effectiveness in enhancing memory and cognitive speed, with mixed results. It’s important to note that while nootropics show promise, their efficacy can vary greatly among individuals, and long-term safety profiles are still under investigation.
Legal Concerns:
- Largely unregulated by agencies like FDA, variable manufacturing quality control.
- Safety/efficacy research is limited compared to strictly vetted pharmaceuticals.
- Purity & contamination issues if poor ingredient sourcing methods.
- Analogues structurally similar to controlled substances can risk DEA enforcement.
- Combining several compounds could lead to uncertain interactions.
- Advertised benefits may outpace what clinical studies actually support.
- Prudent to consult doctor before use, especially if on other medications.
- Quality certification, testing help validate responsible brands.
- Caution warranted around long-term impact with sustained use.
SARMs – Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators
Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators (SARMs) are a class of therapeutic compounds with similar properties to anabolic steroids, but with reduced androgenic (producing male characteristics) properties. Initially developed for medical use to treat conditions like muscle wasting and osteoporosis, SARMs selectively bind to androgen receptors in specific tissues, such as muscle and bone.
Why Becoming Popular:
In the fitness community, SARMs have gained traction for their potential to promote muscle growth and fat loss, similar to steroids but with fewer reported side effects. They are particularly popular among bodybuilders and built for athletes looking to enhance physical performance and appearance. SARMs are believed to provide the benefits of traditional anabolic steroids, such as testosterone, including increased muscle mass and fat loss, without many of the side effects associated with steroids.
Legal Considerations:
- SARMs (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators) are not approved for human consumption or medical use in most countries – only allowed for research.
- Globally banned for use by professional/Olympic athletes and major sports organizations.
- Legal status varies widely – in the USA, SARMs are unapproved drugs but some analogue compounds have been classified controlled substances by the DEA.
- Quality control is non-existent without pharmaceutical-grade regulations, high risk of contamination.
- Long-term safety profile and adverse effects with sustained SARMs use is largely unknown.
- Some reported side effects include liver toxicity, increased LDL cholesterol, suppressed natural testosterone production.
- Without oversight, product label accuracy regarding ingredients and dosages can be questionable.
- Interaction risks amplify when stacking multiple SARMs compounds.
- Milder SARMs like ostarine are popular for boosting fitness goals but still banned in competitive sports.
- Stronger SARMs like LGD-4033 may pose higher health risks if used without medical guidance.
- Legal penalties possible for selling/distributing SARMs marketed falsely as approved drugs or supplements.
- Prudent to consult a medical professional before using research chemicals not meant for human consumption.
CBD Oil – Most Popular This Decade
CBD oil, derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, primarily from hemp, has garnered attention for its therapeutic potential. Unlike its cousin THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it doesn’t produce the ‘high’ associated with cannabis use. Its extraction involves isolating cannabidiol (CBD) from other plant compounds, resulting in an oil that’s increasingly used in wellness products.
Why Becoming Popular:
CBD oil is acclaimed for its potential health benefits. It’s most commonly used for pain relief, capitalizing on its anti-inflammatory properties. For those dealing with anxiety, CBD has shown promise in reducing symptoms, offering a natural alternative to traditional medications. Additionally, its use in improving sleep quality has gained traction, with some users reporting better sleep patterns and relaxation.
Legal Considerations:
- CBD legality depends heavily on where it is sourced from – hemp-derived CBD containing less than 0.3% THC is legal federally in the USA thanks to the 2018 Farm Bill, but still faces varied legal status at the state level. Conversely, CBD derived from the marijuana plant remains federally illegal as a Schedule I substance, though permitted by some state cannabis programs.
- Internationally, CBD legality also varies widely country-by-country – some have more restrictions on THC content, others only allow CBD for prescription use, while policies continue evolving. Conducting careful due diligence on local laws is crucial before obtaining CBD products abroad.
- Seeking out quality assurance from manufacturers and requesting independent third-party lab test results helps consumers verify purity and validate CBD/THC concentrations listed on labels, given lack of official regulatory oversight. This assists in assuring safety and accuracy in an largely unregulated industry..
- Contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides or bacteria found through certificates of analysis testing are prime reasons for the FDA to flag non-compliant CBD companies for making false promises or health claims around their products lacking verification.
Collagen Peptides – For Skin and Beyond
Collagen peptides are small fragments of protein derived from collagen, a key structural component in human tissues. Unlike traditional collagen, these peptides are hydrolyzed, meaning they are broken down into smaller, more easily digestible and absorbable forms. This process enhances their bioavailability, allowing the body to utilize them more efficiently than intact collagen.
Why Becoming Popular:
Collagen peptides are celebrated for their significant benefits in skin health. They are known to promote skin elasticity and hydration, potentially reducing the appearance of wrinkles and dryness. In hair and nail care, these peptides contribute to strength and resilience. Regular intake of collagen peptides has been associated with healthier, stronger hair and nails, reflecting their role in supporting the underlying structures of these tissues.
Beyond aesthetic benefits, collagen peptides play a crucial role in joint health. They are believed to support the integrity of cartilage, the rubber-like tissue that protects joints. This can translate to improved joint mobility and a potential reduction in joint pain and discomfort, especially in conditions like osteoarthritis. The regular consumption of collagen peptides may thus be a beneficial addition for those seeking to maintain joint health and mobility.
Legal Considerations:
- Collagen peptides are generally considered dietary supplements by regulatory bodies like the FDA, so manufacturing good practices are more loosely regulated compared to pharmaceutical drugs.
- Companies selling collagen supplements still need to ensure safety and comply with truth-in-labeling laws regarding ingredient claims.
- Hydrolyzed collagen itself is not a controlled or scheduled substance, but quality standards can vary widely in an unstandardized market.
- Without oversight, some collagen supplements have faced controversies related to lead contamination and inaccurate protein content.
- Certain collagen source materials like eggs or bovine parts could spark allergen concerns for sensitive consumers if not properly labeled.
- Combining collagen peptides with ingredients like vitamin C or hyaluronic acid may interact in ways that deserve more safety studies.
- Any manufacturer claims around benefits or efficacy rates of collagen supplements often lack rigorous clinical trials to back them up.
- Despite gray areas in regulation, ethical collagen brands will voluntarily submit products for independent third-party purity testing.
Conclusion
Each new-age supplement we’ve looked offers unique benefits that are worth exploring. It’s crucial to approach these supplements with an informed mindset. Understanding their benefits, potential risks, and legal status is essential. Most importantly, consulting roca healthcare professionals before starting any new supplement regimen ensures safety and alignment with individual health needs. This careful consideration is key in navigating the evolving landscape of modern health supplements.
Note this content is not a medical consultation, I don’t recommend any product nor I am affilaited with any of the above one.
References:
Adaptogens:
- “A Prospective, Randomized Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study of Safety and Efficacy of a High-Concentration Full-Spectrum Extract of Ashwagandha Root in Reducing Stress and Anxiety in Adults”, Indian Journal of Psychological Medicine, 2012. doi: 10.4103/0253-7176.106022
- “A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Study of Rhodiola rosea Extract SHR-5 in the Treatment of Patients with Excessive Stress”, Phytotherapy Research, 2009. doi: 10.1002/ptr.2768
Nootropics:
- “The FORTI Study: A Prospective, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial on the Effects of Repeated Administrations of a Combination of Fasoracetam, Omega-3, and B Vitamins on Cognitive Functions during an 8-Week Period in Elderly Patients with Mild Cognitive Impairments”, Neuropsychobiology, 2021. doi: 10.1159/000516611
- “Ginkgo biloba Extract in the Therapy of Acute and Chronic Cerebrovascular Insufficiency”, Therapiewoche, 1991. PMID: 1962741
SARMS:
- “They Do What? A Web-Based Survey on the Use and Impact of SARMs and Other Synthetic Performance Enhancing Substances in Fitness and Non-Fitness Athlete Populations”, Hormone and Metabolic Research, 2021. doi: 10.1055/a-1331-4400
CBD Oil:
- “Cannabidiol as a Potential Treatment for Anxiety Disorders”, Neurotherapeutics, 2015. doi: 10.1007/s13311-015-0387-1
- “The nonpsychoactive cannabis constituent cannabidiol is an orally effective therapeutic agent in rat chronic inflammatory and neuropathic pain”, European Journal of Pharmacology, 2007. doi: 10.1016/j.ejphar.2006.11.006
Collagen Peptides:
- “24-Week study on the use of collagen hydrolysate as a dietary supplement in athletes with activity-related joint pain”, Current Medical Research and Opinion, 2008. doi: 10.1185/030079908X291967
- “Influence of Collagen Hydrolysate Supplementation on Joint Pain in Athletes”, Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 2017. doi: 10.1249/MSS.0000000000001189
