In contrast to the placebo group, all participants in the intervention group obtained vitamin C levels over 50umol/l, indicating they achieved optimal vitamin C status by the end of the trial. Higher blood vitamin C levels were linked to greater increases in scores of attention and work engagement, as well as faster processing speed and enhanced focus during taxing cognitive tests.

Data show that about half the adult population does not consume an adequate amount of vitamin C. Alongside inadequate dietary intake, lifestyle factors like chronic stress and smoking deplete vitamin C. Taken together, this suggests that suboptimal vitamin C status may be common among adults and that replenishing vitamin C daily through healthy diet and supplements is necessary to support vibrant health, including optimal brain function.

Reference

Sim, M., Hong, S., Jung, S. et al. Vitamin C supplementation promotes mental vitality in healthy young adults: results from a cross-sectional analysis and a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Eur J Nutr 61, 447–459 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00394-021-02656-3

Pycnogenol^® Protects Skin from Pollution and Seasonal Changes

Pycnogenol, also known as pine bark extract, has a well-established reputation for its role in skin health and appearance. A 2021 study published in Skin Pharmacology Physiology adds to the evidence by showing that daily supplementation with 100 mg of Pycnogenol for 12 weeks helps skin retain moisture, elasticity, and barrier function, specifically in harsh environmental conditions.

The study included 76 participants who spent long hours working outdoors in Beijing and were exposed to urban air pollution and environmental stress, as well as seasonal temperature and humidity changes. Data from the study showed that despite exposure to environmental stressors, including particulate matter, participants receiving the Pycnogenol had better skin hydration and lower transepidermal water loss (loss of water from the skin via evaporation), compared to placebo. Data from the dry season showed that participants in the placebo group had a 4.5% increase in transepidermal water loss compared to the Pycnogenol group, who had 14% lower transepidermal water loss, indicating a significant improvement in skin barrier function. The pine bark extract supplement also lead to improvements in skin elasticity. Beyond topical products to protect the skin, this study shows that skin health can also be improved with nutritional supplements like Pycnogenol.

Reference

Zhao H, Wu J, Wang N, Grether-Beck S, Krutmann J, Wei L. Oral Pycnogenol® Intake Benefits the Skin in Urban Chinese Outdoor Workers: A Randomized, Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind, and Crossover Intervention Study. Skin Pharmacol Physiol. 2021;34(3):135-145. doi: 10.1159/000514323. Epub 2021 Mar 31. PMID: 33789311.