The gut-brain axis can play an important role in bolstering mental wellness, according to FrieslandCampina Ingredients (FCI). Ahead of a webinar about the emerging science on the interaction between the brain and microbiota, FCI experts speak to FoodIngredientsFirst about why consumers are seeking products for mood. 

“Mental health has been gaining importance over the past years. Consumers have more and more understanding that all aspects of health are interlinked, and they are also becoming more open about their mental health. Therefore, mental health is also rising on the agenda,” says Jouke Veldman, business development manager. 

Vicky Davies, global marketing director of performance and active nutrition, continues that consumer perception of mental health was previously focused on medicines to cure mental diseases. 

This has now evolved toward prevention and well-being, using ingredients and functional food strategies.

“With our busy lifestyles, consumers cram as many activities as possible into the day. Therefore, increasing numbers of consumers say they struggle to relax and feel they could use additional support,” she explains. 

“Especially in these unprecedented times of COVID-19, many consumers experience additional pressure, uncertainty and anxiety toward the future.” 

Pinpointing mental well-being
While the umbrella of mental well-being is very broad, Veldman observes that for most people, it is about feeling “in control” and having a positive outlook. 

“During busy periods, consumers can experience mental fatigue, stress and sleeping problems. Some – but not all – mental well-being issues can partly be targeted with similar nutritional strategies. One important factor to consider with both stress and depression is serotonin, for example.”  

This translates into consumers taking a long-term and proactive approach to health. They see good mental health as being central to maintaining a good overall quality of life, Veldman states. 

Issues like stress and sleep occur across all age groups, but each person will display different causes and effects.

“We do see that younger adults are more likely than senior consumers to be concerned about brain health issues. Data shows that two in three US adults aged 25 to 34 are concerned about feelings of stress.”

NPD potential
Davies explains that the gut-brain axis is relatively new to the mental health segment as it is also emerging science. Most current propositions are based on herbal extracts and single-action ingredients. 

For example, myAir’s personalized nutrition bars use adaptogens and plant-based ingredients to address stress. Meanwhile, PepsiCo’s Driftwell drink features L-Theanine and magnesium to help consumers wind down before bedtime.

“With the gut-brain axis, the body’s own mechanisms are stimulated to improve the health benefits. Improving health by supporting the body’s own mechanisms is what Biotis stands for,” says Davies

In October, FCI unveiled Biotis SleepWell, its first concept that touts brain health benefits within the company’s Biotis brand. It features galacto-oligosaccharides, which have traditionally been solely associated with the infant nutrition space. 

“The mental well-being market will become even more mature over time. We see social taboos surrounding mental health continue to evaporate, and consumers increasingly recognize that all aspects of health are interlinked and should all be addressed,” details Veldman. 

Globally, FCI’s customers are noticing that a growing number of consumers have taken action to improve their mental health. 

Davies continues to see innovations claiming benefits in terms of mood and emotional well-being, including claims related to relaxing, sleep and feeling good.

Connecting the gut-brain axis with mental well-being
Veldman explains that although the microbiota is present in people’s “inner outside,” there is a close symbiotic interaction with, and impact on, the human body throughout life.

The metabolites produced by specific gut bacteria not only affect digestion and gut comfort, but also impact immune and metabolic functions. 

Some compounds have neuroactive properties and reach the brain through the bloodstream after uptake from the intestine or by direct signaling via the vagus nerve – the connection between the gut and the brain.

“There are clear indications that this communication impacts brain physiology, behavior and mental well-being. This is the so-called gut-brain axis,” adds Davies. 

Scientific understanding at a consumer level
The symbiotic relationship between the gut microbiota and the human body is well established at the scientific level, according to Veldman. 

Consumers are also starting to realize the importance of healthy microbiota development and support throughout life. “This is aided by several popular scientific books on the market that particularly address this topic for the general public.”

Honing in on the gut-brain axis specifically, he explains that its potential importance for brain development, behavior and mental well-being is eminent. However, many insights have been obtained in animal studies, and translational human studies are therefore needed to substantiate the findings in humans. 

“In addition, food- and ingredient-based intervention strategies to improve mental well-being through the gut-brain axis will have to reveal the efficacy of anticipated opportunities. It is an emerging but very exciting field,” concludes Davies. 

FCI’s upcoming webinar will delve deeper into the science behind the gut-brain axis and how this can be harnessed for market opportunities.