BENEXIA Xia Oil Science-Based Applications

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Applications

XIA OIL

Science-Based Applications

WOMEN'S & MEN HEALTH

SPORTS NUTRITION

ELDERLY'S HEALTH

The Science

IN SUMMARY: Pairing omega-3s with calcium and vitamin D can offer additional bone and joint protection for women ages 50 and older. The benefits from ALA omega-3s may be greater than other forms of omega-3 supplementation such as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid).

THE EVIDENCE: OMEGA-3S

May enhance calcium absorption

Omega-3 fatty acids may alter the lipid composition of cell membranes, helping cells take in more calcium that can then be put towards building and maintaining bone tissue. These alterations may also reduce rates of calcium loss.

May reduce inflammation to reduce bone loss and enhance bone growth

Rates of low-grade inflammation naturally increase with age. Omega-3s offer protection by turning down the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines that may stimulate the breakdown, or resorption, or bone tissue. Simultaneously, these anti-inflammatory properties may also stimulate the formation of healthy new bone tissue.

ALA omega-3 may be particularly effective at these tasks. Compared to supplementing with DHA and EPA, ALA supplementation is tied to:

• Significantly higher levels of Bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (BALP), a bone enzyme involved in generating new bone tissue.

• Lower levels of markers of bone resorption, such as C-terminal telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTX) and N-terminal telopeptide (NTx).

May enhance physical function

Greater physical activity supports stronger, healthier bones. Among postmenopausal women, dietary intake of ALA omega-3 has been shown to positively impact key parameters of physical function in just three days, including faster walking speed, greater grip strength, lower fat mass, better balance, and increased squatting ability.

BONE METABOLISM

The continuous process of forming new bone tissue and breaking down, or resorbing, old or damaged bone tissue to help bones maintain their structural integrity.

THE EVIDENCE: ALA VS. DHA

When it comes to getting our fill of omega-3s, ALA alone may be able to get the job done. Experts have long believed that DHA and EPA are the "hero" sources of omega-3 fatty acids, since ALA was thought to have a poor rate of conversion to DHA. However, we know that women's bodies are more efficient than men, with a conversion rate of 21% for EPA and 9% for DHA.

More significantly, methods of measuring rates of ALA conversion have advanced. Using novel tracking strategies, scientists are now learning that DHA is stored in the body's tissues long-term, and only a small fraction of those reserves actually need to be topped off each day. That replenishment hurdle can easily be cleared with daily intake of ALA. While the conversion rate is small, it may actually be all that’s needed to maintain healthy DHA and EPA levels.

Application Concept in Dietary Supplements/Functional Foods

FUNCTIONAL COLLAGEN PEPTIDES POWDER FOR POST-MENOPAUSAL WOMEN

EASY-MIX CHIA OIL + COLLAGEN PEPTIDES POWDER

Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), highly hydrolyzed bovine collagen peptides, and calcium combine synergistically to offer joint protection and bone and anti-inflammatory support in a highly bioavailable, easy-to-mix drink powder.

RECOMMENDED FOR

Women ages 50+

In the U.S., 6,000 women enter menopause each day.1

Musculoskeletal pain increases with age and may be tied to the onset of menopause. 2

INGREDIENTS

Hydrolyzed bovine collagen peptides, Benexia® ALA Powder 40 [chia oil (70%), acacia gum (30%)], calcium carbonate].

COMPOSITION/NUTRITION FACTS

• 1,400 mg ALA omega-3s

• 10 g hydrolyzed bovine collagen peptides

• 400 mg calcium (31% VRN)

1400 mg Omega-3 ALA to Boost Physical Function Reduce Low-Grade Inflammation

RECOMMENDED INTAKE

One scoop (15 grams) daily for at least 3 months

SUGGESTED FORMAT

450g (15.9 oz. 0.99lb) jar (30 dosages)

NUTRIENT CONTENT CLAIMS*

Excellent Source of Omega-3 | USA

High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids | EU

HEALTH CLAIMS:

Alpha-linolenic acid | USA

ALA omega-3s promote cardiovascular health

Alpha-linolenic acid | EU

ALA contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels

Calcium | EU

Calcium helps reduce the loss of bone mineral in postmenopausal women

References

1. Cho L, Kaunitz AM, Faubion SS, Hayes SN, Lau ES, Pristera N, Scott N, Shifren JL, Shufelt CL, Stuenkel CA, Lindley KJ; ACC CVD in Women Committee. Rethinking Menopausal Hormone Therapy: For Whom, What, When, and How Long? Circulation. 2023 Feb 14;147(7):597-610. doi: 10.1161/ CIRCULATIONAHA.122.061559. Epub 2023 Feb 13. PMID: 36780393; PMCID: PMC10708894.

2. Watt FE. Musculoskeletal pain and menopause. Post Reproductive Health. 2018;24(1):34-43.

3. Isanejad M, Tajik B, McArdle A, Tuppurainen M, Sirola J, Kröger H, Rikkonen T, Erkkilä A. Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid and alpha-linolenic acid are associated with physical capacity measure but not muscle mass in older women 65-72 years. Eur J Nutr. 2022 Jun;61(4):1813-1821. doi: 10.1007/s00394-021-02773-z. Epub 2021 Dec 16. PMID: 34913105; PMCID: PMC9106622.

4. Deng W, Yi Z, Yin E, Lu R, You H, Yuan X. Effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation for patients with osteoarthritis: a meta-analysis. J Orthop Surg Res. 2023 May 24;18(1):381. doi: 10.1186/s13018-023-03855-w. PMID: 37226250; PMCID: PMC10210278.

5. Isanejad M, Tajik B, McArdle A, Tuppurainen M, Sirola J, Kröger H, Rikkonen T, Erkkilä A. Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid and alpha-linolenic acid are associated with physical capacity measure but not muscle mass in older women 65-72 years. Eur J Nutr. 2022 Jun;61(4):1813-1821. doi: 10.1007/s00394-021-02773-z. Epub 2021 Dec 16. PMID: 34913105; PMCID: PMC9106622.

6. Isanejad M, Tajik B, McArdle A, Tuppurainen M, Sirola J, Kröger H, Rikkonen T, Erkkilä A. Dietary omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid and alpha-linolenic acid are associated with physical capacity measure but not muscle mass in older women 65-72 years. Eur J Nutr. 2022 Jun;61(4):1813-1821. doi: 10.1007/s00394-021-02773-z. Epub 2021 Dec 16. PMID: 34913105; PMCID: PMC9106622.

7. El Khoudary SR, Aggarwal B, Beckie TM, Hodis HN, Johnson AE, Langer RD, Limacher MC, Manson JE, Stefanick ML, Allison MA; American Heart Association Prevention Science Committee of the Council on Epidemiology and Prevention; and Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing. Menopause Transition and Cardiovascular Disease Risk: Implications for Timing of Early Prevention: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2020 Dec 22;142(25):e506-e532. doi: 10.1161/ CIR.0000000000000912. Epub 2020 Nov 30. PMID: 33251828.

8. Khan SU, Lone AN, Khan MS, Virani SS, Blumenthal RS, Nasir K, Miller M, Michos ED, Ballantyne CM, Boden WE, Bhatt DL. Effect of omega-3 fatty acids on cardiovascular outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine. 2021 Jul 8;38:100997. doi: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2021.100997. PMID: 34505026; PMCID: PMC8413259.

9. Domenichiello AF, Kitson AP, Bazinet RP. Is docosahexaenoic acid synthesis from α-linolenic acid sufficient to supply the adult brain? Progress in Lipid Research [Internet] 2015 Jul [cited February 13, 2025];59:54-66. doi: 10.1016/j.plipres.2015.04.002. Epub 2015 Apr 25. PMID: 25920364.

10. Su HM, Huang MC, Saad NM, Nathanielsz PW, Brenna JT. Fetal baboons convert 18:3n-3 to 22:6n-3 in vivo. A stable isotope tracer study. J Lipid Res. 2001 Apr;42(4):581-6. PMID: 11290830.

11. Domenichiello AF, Kitson AP, Chen CT, Trépanier MO, Stavro PM, Bazinet RP. The effect of linoleic acid on the whole body synthesis rates of polyunsaturated fatty acids from α-linolenic acid and linoleic acid in free-living rats. J Nutr Biochem. 2016 Apr;30:167-76. doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2015.11.016. Epub 2015 Dec 12. PMID: 27012633.

The Science

IN SUMMARY: Women become less effective at converting ALA omega-3s to DHA omega-3s during the menopausal transition. Supplementing with ALA and DHA omega-3s can support this reduced capacity, and in turn, help manage menopause-related symptoms.

THE EVIDENCE: WOMEN AND OMEGA-3 CONVERSION Research shows that younger women convert alphalinolenic acid (ALA) to eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) much more efficiently than men, in large part thanks to estrogen. As estrogen levels decline during menopause, the synthesis of ALA to DHA becomes downregulated, making omega-3 supplementation essential. 4,5,6

THE EVIDENCE: OMEGA-3S IN MENOPAUSE

The menopausal transition is associated with an increased risk for a range of symptoms and conditions. Many of those issues can be better managed with the help of supplemental omega-3 fatty acids, including:

• Heart Health. Estrogen exerts a protective effect on the heart, where declining levels can increase a woman's risk for heart disease, heart attack, and stroke[7]. Supplemental omega-3 can play a key role in combatting these problems by aiding in BMI and waist circumference reduction and lower blood pressure and triglycerides[8].

• Mood and Brain Fog. The risk for mood disorders and cognitive impairment increases in menopause. Research suggests that supplementing with omega-3s can improve depressive symptoms while enhancing critical aspects of cognition related to motivation, such as energy and alertness[9].

• Joint Pain. Thanks to hormone shifts and the natural effects of aging, more than half of women experience joint pain during and after menopause. Supplementing with omega-3 fatty acids has consistently been shown to relieve joint pain while improving function[10].

• Night Sweats And Sleep Disruption. Hormone shifts can lead to night sweats that cause discomfort and disrupt. However, omega-3 supplements may help alleviate night sweats, which in turn can lead to more comfortable, less fragmented sleep[11].

THE EVIDENCE: ALA VS. DHA

When it comes to getting our fill of omega-3s, ALA alone may be able to get the job done. Experts have long believed that DHA and EPA are the "hero" sources of omega-3 fatty acids, since ALA was thought to have a poor rate of conversion to DHA. However, methods of measuring rates of ALA conversion have advanced. Using novel tracking strategies, scientists are now learning that DHA is stored in the body's tissues long-term, and only a small fraction of those reserves actually need to be topped off each day. That replenishment hurdle can easily be cleared with daily intake of ALA. While the conversion rate is small, it may actually be all that’s needed to maintain healthy DHA and EPA levels.

References

1. Cho L, Kaunitz AM, Faubion SS, Hayes SN, Lau ES, Pristera N, Scott N, Shifren JL, Shufelt CL, Stuenkel CA, Lindley KJ; ACC CVD in Women Committee. Rethinking Menopausal Hormone Therapy: For Whom, What, When, and How Long? Circulation. 2023 Feb 14;147(7):597-610. doi: 10.1161/ CIRCULATIONAHA.122.061559. Epub 2023 Feb 13. PMID: 36780393; PMCID: PMC10708894.

2. Members, M. (2024, September 3). Ongoing individualized hormone therapy appears to have no age limit. The Menopause Society. https://menopause. org/press-releases/ongoing-individualized-hormone-therapy-appears-tohave-no-age-limit

3. How to manage menopause naturally. (2022, October 4). https://www.ncoa. org/article/5-ways-to-manage-your-menopause-naturally/

4. Burdge GC, Wootton SA. Conversion of alpha-linolenic acid to eicosapentaenoic, docosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids in young women. Br J Nutr. 2002 Oct;88(4):411-20. doi: 10.1079/BJN2002689. PMID: 12323090.

5. Giltay EJ, Gooren LJ, Toorians AW, Katan MB, Zock PL. Docosahexaenoic acid concentrations are higher in women than in men because of estrogenic effects. Am J Clin Nutr. 2004 Nov;80(5):1167-74. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/80.5.1167. PMID: 15531662.

6. Childs, C. E., Romeu-Nadal, M., Burdge, G. C., & Calder, P. C. (2008). Gender differences in the n-3 fatty acid content of tissues. Proceedings of the Nutrition Society, 67(1), 19-27.

7. El Khoudary SR, Aggarwal B, Beckie TM, Hodis HN, Johnson AE, Langer RD, Limacher MC, Manson JE, Stefanick ML, Allison MA; American Heart Association Prevention Science Committee of the Council on Epidemiology and Prevention; and Council on Cardiovascular and Stroke Nursing. Menopause Transition and Cardiovascular Disease Risk: Implications for Timing of Early Prevention: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2020 Dec 22;142(25):e506-e532. doi: 10.1161/ CIR.0000000000000912. Epub 2020 Nov 30. PMID: 33251828.

8. Khan SU, Lone AN, Khan MS, Virani SS, Blumenthal RS, Nasir K, Miller M, Michos ED, Ballantyne CM, Boden WE, Bhatt DL. Effect of omega-3 fatty acids on cardiovascular outcomes: A systematic review and meta-analysis. EClinicalMedicine. 2021 Jul 8;38:100997. doi: 10.1016/j.eclinm.2021.100997. PMID: 34505026; PMCID: PMC8413259.

9. Mac Giollabhui N, Mischoulon D, Dunlop BW, Kinkead B, Schettler PJ, Liu RT, Okereke OI, Lamon-Fava S, Fava M, Rapaport MH. Individuals with depression exhibiting a pro-inflammatory phenotype receiving omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids experience improved motivation-related cognitive function: Preliminary results from a randomized controlled trial. Brain Behav Immun Health. 2023 Jul 7;32:100666. doi: 10.1016/j.bbih.2023.100666. PMID: 37503359; PMCID: PMC10368827.

10. Deng W, Yi Z, Yin E, Lu R, You H, Yuan X. Effect of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids supplementation for patients with osteoarthritis: a meta-analysis. J Orthop Surg Res. 2023 May 24;18(1):381. doi: 10.1186/s13018-023-03855-w. PMID: 37226250; PMCID: PMC10210278.

11. Mohammady M, Janani L, Jahanfar S, Mousavi MS. Effect of omega-3 supplements on vasomotor symptoms in menopausal women: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 2018 Sep;228:295-302. doi: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2018.07.008. Epub 2018 Jul 20. PMID: 30056356.

12. Domenichiello AF, Kitson AP, Bazinet RP. Is docosahexaenoic acid synthesis from α-linolenic acid sufficient to supply the adult brain? Progress in Lipid Research [Internet] 2015 Jul [cited February 13, 2025];59:54-66. doi: 10.1016/j.plipres.2015.04.002. Epub 2015 Apr 25. PMID: 25920364.

13. Su HM, Huang MC, Saad NM, Nathanielsz PW, Brenna JT. Fetal baboons convert 18:3n-3 to 22:6n-3 in vivo. A stable isotope tracer study. J Lipid Res. 2001 Apr;42(4):581-6. PMID: 11290830.

14. Domenichiello AF, Kitson AP, Chen CT, Trépanier MO, Stavro PM, Bazinet RP. The effect of linoleic acid on the whole body synthesis rates of polyunsaturated fatty acids from α-linolenic acid and linoleic acid in free-living rats. J Nutr Biochem. 2016 Apr;30:167-76. doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2015.11.016. Epub 2015 Dec 12. PMID: 27012633.

Application Concept in Dietary Supplements/Functional Foods

MALE FERTILITY AND REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH

CHIA OIL + UBIQUINOL (COQ10)

The highest plant-based source of alpha-linoleic acid (ALA) joins forces with the most active form of coenzyme Q10 to support sperm quality, modulate male reproductive hormones, and support vascular health.

RECOMMENDED FOR Men

Global rates of male fertility have steadily decreased since 1990

15% of couples worldwide are affected by infertility

Male factors contribute to about 50% of infertility cases

COMPOSITION/NUTRITION FACTS

1,200 mg

Alpha-linoleic Acid

200 mg Ubiquinol (CoQ10)

Improves sperm quality, modulates hormone health, reduces inflammation

Exerts anti-inflammatory effect; improves sperm density, motility, and morpholog

RECOMMENDED INTAKE

Two capsules daily

SUGGESTED FORMAT

Softgel capsules

NUTRIENT CONTENT CLAIMS*

• Excellent Source of Omega-3 | USA

• High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids | EU

HEALTH CLAIMS*

Alpha-Linolenic Acid and Q10 | USA

• Optimizes fertility

• Supports sperm health

• Supports vascular and heart health

Alpha-Linolenic Acid | EU

ALA contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels.

KEY ADVANTAGES

• Sustainable

• Plant-based source of omega-3s

The Science

IN SUMMARY: Omega-3 supplements can play a key role in supporting male fertility through a number of different avenues, emerging research suggests. Combining omega-3s with ubiquinol may offer additional anti-inflammatory benefits.

Sperm Motility: Ability of sperm to move efficiently

Sperm Morphology: The shape and structure of sperm cells

Sperm Density: Number of sperm in a given volume of semen

Functional Competence: Ability of sperm to fertilize an egg

THE EVIDENCE: OMEGA-3S

May improve sperm quality.

Higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are tied to higher sperm counts and greater sperm motility and morphology. Omega-3 supplements may also help sperm maintain their structural integrity and functional competence by fighting against oxidative stress.

May modulate hormone production. EPA and DHA supplementation may enhance the production of the male reproductive hormone testosterone. That may provide a healthier environment for sperm production and maturation.

May reduce inflammation.

Omega-3's anti-inflammatory properties counteract the effects of chronic inflammation in the testes and the seminal vesicles. This also supports healthy sperm production and function.

THE EVIDENCE: UBIQUINOL (COENZYME Q10)

Men with unexplained low sperm count may benefit from ubiquinol. Supplements can exert an antioxidant effect that has been shown to improve sperm density, sperm motility, and sperm morphology.

THE EVIDENCE: ALA VS. DHA

When it comes to getting our fill of omega-3s, ALA alone may be able to get the job done. Experts have long believed that DHA and EPA are the "hero" sources of omega-3 fatty acids, since ALA was thought to have a poor rate of conversion to DHA. But methods of measuring rates of ALA conversion have advanced. Using novel tracking strategies, scientists are now learning that DHA is stored in the body's tissues long-term, and only a small fraction of those reserves actually need to be topped off each day. That replenishment hurdle can easily be cleared with daily intake of ALA. While the conversion rate is small, it may actually be all that’s needed to maintain healthy DHA and EPA levels in the body.

Application Concept in Dietary Supplements/Functional Foods

POST-WORKOUT ALA SMOOTHIE FOR SPORTS RECOVERY

ANTI-INFLAMMATORY CHIA OIL SMOOTHIE

Optimize sports recovery and shorten time between workouts with a convenient, ready-to-drink smoothie with alpha-linolenic (ALA) omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and natural antioxidants.

RECOMMENDED FOR

High-performance athletes

INGREDIENTS

Mixed berry juice from concentrate, whey protein, pectin, Benexia Chia Oil (63% ALA), natural raspberry flavor, sunflower seed protein, rosemary extract, tocopherols.

COMPOSITION/NUTRITION FACTS

Supplement Facts

Serving Size: 1 (8.45 FL OZ) (250

RECOMMENDED INTAKE

One serving (250 ml ) up to twice per day.

SUGGESTED FORMAT

250 ml bottle (1 dosage).

Athletes may be at higher risk for omega-3 insufficiencies.1

Omega-3 supplementation can improve deficiencies and yield performance and recovery benefits.

1600 mg Omega-3 ALA for

High Athletic Performance Muscle Repair, Refuel & Recovery

NUTRIENT CONTENT CLAIMS

Excellent Source of Omega-3 | USA

High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids | EU

Excellent Source of Protein | USA High Protein | EU

HEALTH CLAIMS*

Alpha-Linolenic Acid | USA

• Plant-based source of omega-3s DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS

• Strengthen heart health for cardiovascular support

• Support immune system

Alpha-Linolenic Acid | EU ALA contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels.

KEY ADVANTAGES

• Sustainable

The Science

IN SUMMARY: Omega-3s may help athletes perform at a higher level during physical activity and experience faster recovery times with less muscle discomfort.

THE EVIDENCE: ALAS AND MUSCLE PERFORMANCE

High consumption of ALA (1.9 g/day) is tied to better aerobic performance compared to low consumption of ALA (0.75 g/day). ALA has been shown to improve oxygen use efficiency. It also promotes the use of fat for energy during prolonged exercise after carbohydrate sources have been depleted. 2

THE EVIDENCE: OMEGA-3S AND RECOVERY

Omega-3 supplementation may turn down the body's inflammatory response and decrease oxidative stress after exercise. This may reduce exercise-induced muscle damage, which in turn may support faster recovery times. 3

THE EVIDENCE: OMEGA-3S + WHEY PROTEIN

High-quality protein sources like whey have long been known to support muscle recovery after physical activity. Consuming whey with omega-3 fatty acids before exercising may add to these benefits. The combination has been shown to improve strength and power and reduce delayed-onset muscle soreness. 4

THE EVIDENCE: ALA VS. DHA

When it comes to getting our fill of omega-3s, ALA alone may be able to get the job done. Experts have long believed that DHA and EPA are the "hero" sources of omega-3 fatty acids, since ALA was thought to have a poor rate of conversion to DHA. However, methods of measuring rates of ALA conversion have advanced. Using novel tracking strategies, scientists are now learning that DHA is stored in the body's tissues long-term, and only a small fraction of those reserves actually need to be topped off each day. That replenishment hurdle can easily be cleared with daily intake of ALA. While the conversion rate is small, it may actually be all that’s needed to maintain healthy DHA and EPA levels. 5,6,7

References

1. Jäger R, Heileson JL, Abou Sawan S, Dickerson BL, Leonard M, Kreider RB, Kerksick CM, Cornish SM, Candow DG, Cordingley DM, Forbes SC, Tinsley GM, Bongiovanni T, Cannataro R, Campbell BI, Arent SM, Stout JR, Kalman DS, Antonio J. International Society of Sports Nutrition Position Stand: Long-Chain Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2025 Dec;22(1):2441775. doi: 10.1080/15502783.2024.2441775. Epub 2025 Jan 15. PMID: 39810703; PMCID: PMC11737053.

2. Lyudinina, A.Y., Bushmanova, E.A., Varlamova, N.G. et al. Dietary and plasma blood α-linolenic acid as modulators of fat oxidation and predictors of aerobic performance. J Int Soc Sports Nutr 17, 57 (2020). https://doi.org/10.1186/ s12970-020-00385-2

3. Fernández-Lázaro D, Arribalzaga S, Gutiérrez-Abejón E, Azarbayjani MA, Mielgo-Ayuso J, Roche E. Omega-3 Fatty Acid Supplementation on PostExercise Inflammation, Muscle Damage, Oxidative Response, and Sports Performance in Physically Healthy Adults-A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials. Nutrients. 2024 Jun 27;16(13):2044. doi: 10.3390/ nu16132044. PMID: 38999792; PMCID: PMC11243702.

4. Ahmadi M, Hoorang N, Imanian B, Hemmatinafar M, Rezaei R, Nemati J, Eftekhari F, Alkasasbeh WJ. Boosting Recovery: Omega-3 and Whey Protein Enhance Strength and Ease Muscle Soreness in Female Futsal Players. Nutrients. 2024 Dec 11;16(24):4263. doi: 10.3390/nu16244263. PMID: 39770885; PMCID: PMC11678206.

5. Domenichiello AF, Kitson AP, Bazinet RP. Is docosahexaenoic acid synthesis from α-linolenic acid sufficient to supply the adult brain? Progress in Lipid Research [Internet] 2015 Jul [cited February 13, 2025];59:54-66. doi: 10.1016/j.plipres.2015.04.002. Epub 2015 Apr 25. PMID: 25920364.

6. Su HM, Huang MC, Saad NM, Nathanielsz PW, Brenna JT. Fetal baboons convert 18:3n-3 to 22:6n-3 in vivo. A stable isotope tracer study. J Lipid Res. 2001 Apr;42(4):581-6. PMID: 11290830.

7. Domenichiello AF, Kitson AP, Chen CT, Trépanier MO, Stavro PM, Bazinet RP. The effect of linoleic acid on the whole body synthesis rates of polyunsaturated fatty acids from α-linolenic acid and linoleic acid in free-living rats. J Nutr Biochem. 2016 Apr;30:167-76. doi: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2015.11.016. Epub 2015 Dec 12. PMID: 27012633.

Application Concept in Dietary Supplements/Functional Foods

INSTANT PORRIDGE ABSORPTION-OPTIMIZED NUTRIENT BLEND FOR ELDERLY

EASY-MIX CHIA OIL POWDER

Cognitive and neurologic support from alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) omega-3s for older adults, offered in a highly bioavailable, tasty stir-and-serve porridge.

RECOMMENDED FOR

Senior adults

INGREDIENTS

Benexia® ALA Powder 40 [Chia Oil (70%), Acacia Gum (30%)], quinoa flour, rice flour, modified corn starch, pea protein, calcium carbonate, vitamins and minerals, inulin, natural banana flavor, arabic gum, tocopherols, ascorbil palmitate, guar gum.

COMPOSITION/NUTRITION FACTS

Per 4 tablespoons (50 g) powder (250 g reconstituted product):

Nutrition Facts

Serving size (250 g reconstituted product)

The world's older population (ages 60+) will jump by 56% in the next 10 years.1

The number of older adults with dementia worldwide is projected to double by 2030, reaching 78 million. 2

Dietary supplements are widely recognized as a way to enhance cognitive ability and prevent or slow decline. 3

* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes

RECOMMENDED INTAKE

Four tablespoons (50 g) prepared with 200ml of milk, water, or any nutritional formula up to twice daily.

SUGGESTED FORMAT

300g pack (6 servings).

NUTRIENT CONTENT CLAIMS*

Excellent Source of Omega-3 | USA

High Omega-3 Fatty Acids | EU

With more than 600 mg of omega-3 ALA per serving

HEALTH CLAIMS*

Alpha-linolenic acid | USA

• ALA omega-3s promote cardiovascular health

• ALA omega-3s may support immune health

Alpha-linolenic acid | EU

ALA contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels.

4800 mg Omega-3 ALA for

The Science

IN SUMMARY: In summary: Adequate or supplementary ALA omega-3s may offer protection for older adults against cognitive declines and neurologic conditions like stroke.

THE EVIDENCE: ALA OMEGA-3S AND COGNITIVE DECLINE

• Dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids during older adulthood may reduce the risk of all-cause dementia or cognitive decline by 20%. 4

• ALA supplementation during midlife, years before the onset of Alzheimer's disease (AD) symptoms may help prevent or ameliorate slowed brain glucose metabolism, which contributes to the development of AD. 5

THE EVIDENCE: ALA OMEGA-3S AND NEUROLOGIC PROTECTION

• ALA supplementation supports brain health and increases antioxidant activity by increasing levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factors (BDNF), which promotes the growth of new nerve cells in the brain.6

• Low levels of BDNF may increase stroke risk and inhibit stroke recovery, while targeting BDNF levels may support stroke recovery7, suggesting that ALA may support recovery from neurologic conditions like stroke. 8

THE EVIDENCE: ALA VS. DHA

When it comes to getting our fill of omega-3s, ALA alone may be able to get the job done. Experts have long believed that DHA and EPA are the "hero" sources of omega-3 fatty acids, since ALA was thought to have a poor rate of conversion to DHA. However, methods of measuring rates of ALA conversion have advanced. Using novel tracking strategies, scientists are now learning that DHA is stored in the body's tissues long-term, and only a small fraction of those reserves actually need to be topped off each day. That replenishment hurdle can easily be cleared with daily intake of ALA. While the conversion rate is small, it may actually be all that’s needed to maintain healthy DHA and EPA levels.9,10,11

References

1. Pais R, Ruano L, P Carvalho O, Barros H. Global Cognitive Impairment Prevalence and Incidence in Community Dwelling Older Adults-A Systematic Review. Geriatrics (Basel). 2020 Oct 27;5(4):84. doi: 10.3390/ geriatrics5040084. PMID: 33121002; PMCID: PMC7709591.

2. ADI - Dementia statistics. (n.d.). https://www.alzint.org/about/dementiafacts-figures/dementia-statistics/

3. Fekete M, Lehoczki A, Tarantini S, Fazekas-Pongor V, Csípő T, Csizmadia Z, Varga JT. Improving Cognitive Function with Nutritional Supplements in Aging: A Comprehensive Narrative Review of Clinical Studies Investigating the Effects of Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants, and Other Dietary Supplements. Nutrients. 2023 Dec 15;15(24):5116. doi: 10.3390/nu15245116. PMID: 38140375; PMCID: PMC10746024.

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