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AbstractBackground and objectiveA recent proof-of-concept pilot clinical study has demonstrated that consumption of CL18100F4, a proprietary herbal blend of Withania somniferaroot and Abelmoschus esculentusfruit extracts, significantly relieved the participants from functional constipation and improved their quality of life. The objective of the present randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was to reevaluate the efficacy and tolerability of CL18100F4 in a larger number of subjects.MethodsMale and female subjects (n = 135; age: 25–60 years), selected through Rome-IV criteria for functional constipation, were randomized into placebo and 300 or 500 mg of CL18100F4 groups and supplemented daily over 60 consecutive days. The primary efficacy outcome measure was Patient Assessment of Constipation-Symptoms (PAC-SYM), evaluated at baseline and on days 7, 30, and 60 of supplementation. The secondary efficacy parameters included Patient Assessment of Constipation-Quality of Life (PAC-QOL), Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale (GSRS) scores, Gastrointestinal Transit Time (GIT), and Complete Spontaneous Bowel Movement (CSBM). Serum levels of Interleukin (IL)-6, IL-10, cortisol, gastrin, serotonin, Diamine oxidase (DAO), and Zonulin were measured.ResultsCL18100F4 supplementation significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the PAC-SYM, PAC-QOL, GSRS scores, and GIT and improved CSBM scores. CL18100F4 significantly improved (p < 0.001) sleep quality and decreased depression and anxiety symptoms in the participants. Notably, relief in constipation symptoms and improved gastrointestinal (GI) function were reported starting from day 7. Furthermore, CL18100F4 supplementation significantly (p < 0.001) increased the serum levels of IL-10, DAO, serotonin, gastrin, reduced IL-6, cortisol, and Zonulin. No major adverse events were observed. Participants’ vital signs, hematology, clinical biochemistry, and urinalysis parameters were within the normal ranges.ConclusionThe present investigation demonstrates that CL18100F4 is tolerable and efficacious in relieving functional constipation, alleviating GI dysfunction, and improving associated non-GI factors in male and female adults.

Coffee is a primary dietary source of the chlorogenic acids (CGAs) of phenolic compounds. Coffee contains caffeine and other phytonutrients, including CGAs. Caffeine on its own has been well characterized and descried pharmacokinetically in the literature, less so for CGAs. The purpose of this double‐blind crossover study was to determine the comparative pharmacokinetics of CGAs with caffeine (natural extract) with synthetic caffeine (US Pharmacopeia [USP] standard). Sixteen healthy male subjects were randomly assigned to take 1 dose of product 1, 60 mg of botanically sourced caffeine from 480 mg of green coffee bean extract, or product 2, 60 mg of synthetic USP caffeine, with 5 days between. Blood analysis was done to determine the levels of CGA compounds, more specifically 3‐, 4‐, and 5‐caffeoylquinic acid (CQA), and serum caffeine. The natural caffeine extract exhibited mean peak concentrations (Cmax) of 3‐CQA (11.4 ng/mL), 4‐CQA (6.84 ng/mL), and 5‐CQA (7.20 ng/mL). The mean systemic 4‐hour exposure (AUC0–4 h) was 3‐CQA (27.3 ng·h/mL), 4‐CQA (16.1 ng·h/mL), and 5‐CQA (15.7 ng·h/mL). The median tmaxwas 3‐CQA (1.00 hour), 4‐CQA (1.00 hour), and 5‐CQA (1.50 hours). The tmaxof caffeine was 0.75 hours (natural extract) and 0.63 hours (synthetic caffeine). Cmaxand AUC0–4 hof serum caffeine were statistically equivalent between products. The geometric least‐squares mean ratios (GMRs) of Cmaxand AUC0–4 hof caffeine were 97.77% (natural extract) and 98.33% (synthetic caffeine). It would appear that CGA compounds from the natural caffeine extract are bioavailable, and 3‐CGA may be the compound most absorbed. In addition, caffeine sourced from natural extract versus synthetic were statistically similar for pharmacokinetic parameters. There were no adverse events or safety concerns.

THIS ARTICLE REVIEWS THE GUIDELINES AND CONSIDERATIONS OF HYDRATION APPLICABLE TO VARIOUS POPULATION GROUPS AND RESPECTIVE CONDITIONS. AN AREA OF INTEREST AND CONTROVERSY WITH HYDRATION IS THE IMPACT OF ADDING PROTEIN, AS COMPARED WITH CARBOHYDRATE OR THE COMBINATION OF THE TWO, ON OVERALL HYDRATION AND PERFORMANCE STATUS.

Focuses on the importance of calories to the body. Benefits of calories; Factors that help dictate how many calories a day is needed to maintain bodyweight; Information on several macronutrients. INSETS: Thermic effect of food;Caloric requirements.

Presents information on ciwujia, a Chinese herb which is used to improve endurance in athletes and reduce fat. What the herb is commonly known as; Background information on the herb; Benefits of using ciwujia. INSET: Ciwujia at a glance.

Reports on the ban of ephedra, a herb used for weight-loss, and a performance enhancer. Limitations to be made to the dosage by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA); Reason for the ban.

The article presents an answer to a question regarding how to eat good food during travel.

The article provides an answer to the question of what ingredients can be added for making meals look like the food consumed in school days.

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A question and answer on committing to a vegetarian diet, while maintaining high protein and calorie intake is presented.

An answer to a question on a vegetarian diet in which high protein and calorie content is presented.

The article provides an answer to a question of setting up a diet plan, so that one doesn't breaks down the muscle.