Fertility challenges impact millions of couples around the globe. This Female Fertility Assessment explores the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, menstrual cycle, and a variety of factors that can negatively impact female hormonal homeostasis and fertility. Assessment tools, screening labs, and genes relevant to female fertility are also detailed. For more information, download the infographic

Estrogen affects the growth, differentiation, and function of numerous tissues throughout the female body—not just those involved in reproduction. Various lifestyle and environmental factors can influence estrogen production, metabolism, and balance. These include poor diet, obesity, excess alcohol consumption, certain medications, life stages (e.g., perimenopause), and overexposure to certain chemicals. Genetics are also at play. In this infographic, you will learn about: The functions of estrogen in the body Modifiable lifestyle factors that impact estrogen levels The physiology of the…

Estrogen is the primary hormone responsible for sexual and reproductive development in women. Once puberty begins, the body uses estrogen to regulate the first half of the menstrual cycle and then metabolizes the hormone for elimination via urination and defecation. The end of perimenopause is typified by a significant reduction in estrogen. Dietary and lifestyle modifications that support a healthy weight, like consuming a nutrient-dense dietary pattern (e.g., increasing intake of fiber and phytoestrogens) and being physically active, have been…

In the Siberian Rhubarb and Menopause Research Review, the natural transition period of perimenopause and associated physiological changes are examined, with a focused look at vasomotor symptoms like hot flushes. Pharmacologic and natural treatments for menopausal symptoms are detailed, including the safety and efficacy research that spans 30+ years for a unique phytoestrogen extract from the roots of Siberian rhubarb (Rheum rhaponticum L.) called ERr 731®, a non-hormonal therapy. View the Research Review to learn more

A growing body of literature suggests an association between toxicant exposure and the etiology of a number of chronic conditions. Optimizing the body's ability to manage and excrete toxins is essential for health. Minimizing toxin exposure is only one part of a successful strategy to decrease susceptibility to toxicity-related conditions. The Detoxification and Health Research Review explores toxin classes, their health impact, and how low-allergy-potential, targeted nutrition can support balanced detoxification and health throughout life. View the Research Review to…

Human milk vs. other mammal milk is unique for its abundance of oligosaccharides, which are unique carbohydrate polymers. The Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMO) Research Review examines the structure and functions of HMOs, which act as prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial gut microbiota and the production of short-chain fatty acids that create an environment that discourages the growth of potential pathogens. HMOs also serve as antiadhesive antimicrobials, thus reducing the risk of infections, and have also been shown to modulate…

The phytochemical xanthohumol is a flavonoid found in the flowers of hops (Humulus lupulus L.), a plant that has long been used in medicine for various applications and also in brewing of beer. The Xanthohumol Research Review explores the sources, bioavailability, and known biological properties and effects of xanthohumol, with a focus on its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties via kinase modulation, which have implications for metabolic pathways related to chronic conditions. View the Research Review to learn more

Probiotics from the Lactobacilli and Bifidobacteria genera are some of the most commonly studied and used. Two specific probiotic strains, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG®)* and Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis BB-12 (BB-12®)*, have been extensively researched for safety and efficacy, particularly in the pediatric population. The LGG® and BB-12® Research Review examines the clinical evidence for these two probiotic strains as a primary preventive and management strategy for many of the most common infectious diseases and skin disorders affecting children. View…

Inflammation is an immune response to insults like injuries, infections, or unhealthy dietary patterns. It is critical to control and resolve inflammation to prevent chronic inflammatory conditions. Specialized pro-resolving mediators (SPMs) are produced from long-chain polyunsaturated fats, especially EPA and DHA. This SPM Research Review examines the benefits of resolution-based nutrition and how SPMs, unique lipid mediators, play an indispensable role in switching an inflammatory response in the direction of resolution and homeostasis. View the Research Review to learn more

Oral digestive enzymes are a useful adjunctive therapy for individuals avoiding dietary gluten as a result of gluten sensitivity, intolerance or celiac disease. Aspergillus niger prolyl endoprotease (AN-PEP) is an extensively studied, gluten-digesting enzyme that is naturally occurring from the A. niger microorganism. It is resistant to the pH extremes and endogenous digestive enzymes found in the gastrointestinal tract. The AN-PEP Research Review examines the purpose, origin, actions (i.e., breaking down gluten peptides and intact gluten proteins), and clinical study…