SupplySide West 2017: New Study Demonstrates: WACKER’s Antioxidant HTEssence^® Lowers LDL Cholesterol Significantly

Hydroxytyrosol, a secondary plant metabolite, is considered a highly effective antioxidant. Reportedly, it strengthens the immune system, lowers blood pressure, reduces inflammation and improves bone and joint health. Above all, it is said to have a positive effect on blood lipid management, an effect that – according to the US National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) – can support a healthy heart.

A recent clinical study has now shown that WACKER’s nature-identical hydroxytyrosol HTEssence^® has a positive effect on blood cholesterol. In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study, 30 healthy volunteers consumed 30 mg of hydroxytyrosol per day for a total of four weeks with two weeks washout between treatments. The hydroxytyrosol was supplemented either as HTEssence^® or as olive extract in comparison to placebo.

Results show a significant reduction of LDL cholesterol in the blood plasma by 9.4 mg/dL (-8%) with HTEssence^® (see Figure 1). High LDL levels are one main factor for the occurrence of coronary heart diseases and arteriosclerosis. The NCEP estimates that each one percent reduction in LDL cholesterol reduces the risk of heart disease by one to two percent (see Figure 2). Accordingly, an LDL cholesterol reduction of eight percent may reduce the risk for heart diseases by eight percent or more.

Due to its diverse modes of action, hydroxytyrosol is a popular ingredient in dietary supplements. One drawback, until recently, was the way it was produced. In nature, hydroxytyrosol is found in olives and olive leaves and its extraction is complex and cost-intensive. But with WACKER’s patented process, it is possible to synthesize a nature-identical substance of much greater purity, free of unwanted byproducts, and with a defined amount of active ingredient. Available as an odorless, water-soluble powder and liquid, the product is suitable for use in functional foods and dietary supplements, such as tablets, capsules, energy bars and functional beverages.

Further WACKER highlights at SupplySide West:

• Dispersible curcumin and CoQ10 with high bioavailability
  Cyclodextrins can considerably enhance the body’s absorption of non-bioavailable active ingredients. With the aid of gamma-cyclodextrin, curcumin’s bioavailability can be increased by a factor of around 40 compared to conventional turmeric extracts, as shown in a recent clinical study. Likewise, the bioavailability of coenzyme Q10 can be increased 18-fold by complexing it with gamma-cyclodextrin.
• Vegan L-cystine and L-cysteine based on fermentation
  The naturally occurring amino acids L-cysteine and L-cystine are often used in nutritional supplements for various functions, such as skin whitening, as an antioxidant and for stronger hair and nails. Traditionally, cysteine is extracted from human or animal sources such as hair, feathers and pig bristles using hydrochloric acid. Replacing this method with biotechnology, WACKER produces L-cystine and L-cysteine using a patented fermentation process. As a result, WACKER’s products are halal, kosher and purely vegan.
• Alpha-cyclodextrin: a dietary fiber with a health claim
  Alpha-cyclodextrin is a water-soluble source of fiber that WACKER produces enzymatically from renewable raw materials such as corn or potato starch. It is scientifically proven to regulate blood sugar after high-starch meals – an effect that has been confirmed by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). This makes alpha-cyclodextrin particularly suitable as a dietary supplement.

Visit WACKER at SupplySide West 2017 – Booth I133.