December 2017 Trendspotting: Brain Boosting and Body Enhancing Ingredients to Watch in 2018 from Imbibe on Vimeo.
Balanced Body and Mind
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Floral ingredients like lavender, which supports stress relief, and elderflower, which has anti-inflammatory properties, will be more common in beverages like teas, lattes, juices and cocktails. Who does it well: Belvoir Fruit Farms, Sipp, Lori’s Original, Lavender Pond Farm |
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Curcumin (the main active ingredient in turmeric) has anti-inflammatory properties and will be found in beverages, or as an extracted ingredient. Who does it well: Arya, Temple Turmeric |
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Adaptogens generated buzz in 2017 because of their ability to help the body adapt to stressful situations by lowering cortisol levels. Keep an eye out for adaptogens like ashwagandha and maca in 2018. Who does it well: REBBL, Blue Buddha, Califia Farms |
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Mushrooms like chaga, cordyceps, and reishi are also adaptogens, and the next “it” ingredients from the mushroom family. They’re rich in antioxidants, and are associated with stimulating the immune system. Who does it well: Four Sigmatic, Health-Aid Kombucha, REBBL |
Performance Boost
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Another novel application for mushrooms is MycoTechnology’s vegan mushroom protein PureTaste. It secured $35 million in funding to go to market, which suggests new products that incorporate mushroom protein are on the horizon. |
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Medium Chain Triglycerides (MCT) oil are suggested to support cognitive health, and to convert energy into carbs faster because they’re easier to digest. Expect to see MCT oil in coffee (specifically butter coffee) and creamers. Who does it well: Caveman Coffee Co, On It, Know Brainer |
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As demand for cognitive function grows, expect more nootropic ingredients like L-Theanine, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, B12 and Ginko Biloba in beverages. |
Beauty and Detox
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Beauty enhancing ingredients are becoming more mainstream, and collagen is the rising star. Collagen supports the enhancement of hair, skin and nails. Who does it well: Vital Proteins, Beauty and Go, Eviva |
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Activated charcoal is garnering a lot of attention because it is said to absorb everything that hits your digestive tract, which can be very detoxifying.
Who does it well: Dirty Lemon, Sol ti, TGI Fridays (LTO) |
We’ll be releasing more predictions in the New Year. Keep an eye out for January Trendspotting for 2018 Trends to Watch!
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