The importance of maintaining a healthy gut microbiome should be prioritized. Scientists have found that the gut microbiota has a symbiotic relationship with the immune system. A healthy gut microbiome is able to strengthen the immune system via the gut-immune axis. Therefore, increased awareness of the gut-immune axis may create new opportunities in the nutraceutical industry as brand owners start to incorporate new ingredients to boost immunity via gut health.
In the past, only immune-boosting foods especially those that are high in vitamin C content were prioritized as a measure to strengthen immune health and prevent illnesses. As technology progresses and the nutraceutical industry grows, it is found that gut health supplements can positively impact the immune health as well. In other words, a healthy gut means strong immunity.
Consumers link gut health and probiotics with immunity
Interesting Findings
According to Mintel, companies are exploring a variety of ingredients to improve immune health via the gut-immune axis.
1) Probiotics to improve immunity in infants
Claim: To strengthen the intestinal barrier by increasing mRNA expression and the secretion of antibacterial peptides
2) Nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN)
Claim: To balance the intestinal microbiome, thus helping to enhance the overall immune strength
Food and Beverage Fortification
Apart from dietary supplements with gut health benefits, do consider fortifying foods or beverages with ingredients such as probiotics to support immune health. Below are some of the innovative examples available in the market:
