SuanNutra to feature natural weight management prebiotic at CPHI 2024

At the upcoming CPHI trade show (October 8–10), SuanNutra will exhibit its natural weight loss solution, Metabolaid, positioning the ingredient as “complementary” to pharmacological treatments. The patented formulation of hibiscus and lemon verbena supports healthy weight management, blood pressure, cholesterol levels and appetite. Research also supports the product’s prebiotic effect.

SuanNutra claims its solution ensures that weight loss is “entirely from fat tissue while preserving muscle mass,” suggesting its product could be “more sustainable and effective” for long-term weight management. 

“The synergy between nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals has never been stronger as more healthcare companies aim to offer holistic and comprehensive solutions to their customers,” Stephanie Guillén, global sales director at SuanNutra, tells Nutrition Insight. 

“With Metabolaid, we are offering a natural, scientifically backed alternative that complements existing pharmaceutical treatments and addresses critical challenges in the weight management space.” 

The product contains lemon verbena (Lippia citrodora) leaf extract, standardized in at least 25% verbascosides, and hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) extract, standardized in 10% anthocyanins. 

Guillén highlights that the company’s main focus at CPHI is to respond to the growing trend of pharmacological solutions for weight loss and obesity, which “will undoubtedly be a key topic at the event.” 

She adds that ten scientific publications back Metabolaid. “Metabolaid serves as a natural complement to pharmacological solutions, addressing gaps such as discomfort or the ‘yo-yo effect’ after the ingredient discontinuation while offering a natural alternative to increase GLP-1 secretion (along with other benefits).” 

Natural weight loss

Guillén says that attention to weight management has surged since the end of last year. She underscores the importance of “effective, proven solutions that go beyond mere noise.”

“While Metabolaid is the result of over 20 years of research, we continue to uncover new evidence of its benefits and delve deeper into its mechanisms of action,” she continues. “At CPHI, we will present the findings from our latest clinical study, published in May 2024, which further supports Metabolaid’s effectiveness.” 

This latest study indicates that the company’s polyphenol-rich botanical blend of lemon verbena and hibiscus can help improve weight management and metabolic fitness. The double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trial enrolled 61 healthy, overweight adults who took a single, low-dose Metabolaid capsule or placebo daily, 30 min before breakfast, for three months. 

Metabolaid is a natural alternative to increase GLP-1 secretion and addresses gaps in other weight loss offerings.The Metabolaid group experienced significant reductions in body weight, body and belly fat, and waist and triceps circumference, while muscle and bone mass remained unchanged. Moreover, the product contributed to an increased feeling of fullness and satisfaction after a meal and supported healthy cholesterol levels. 

Research published last year suggested that high-dose dietary prebiotics may alter food decision-making in overweight adults by reducing reward-related brain activation in response to high-calorie food. The authors proposed that this is due to functional microbial changes.

GLP-1 effect

The researchers suggest that Metabolaid’s weight management benefits may be linked to its impact on appetite regulation through GLP-1 secretion. Previous studies revealed that Metabolaid positively affects hormones, especially GLP-1. GLP-1 agonist medications continue to be popular in diabetes management and weight loss.

“One particularly exciting aspect of this research is the link between increased GLP-1 secretion and the ingredient’s prebiotic effect on specific bacterial populations. This dual action enhances weight management and offers a more comprehensive approach to metabolic health,” details Guillén. 

The nutrition industry is examining natural alternatives for popular weight loss medications that sustainably support weight loss. Experts caution that these medications do not offer a long-term weight management solution, as two-thirds of consumers stop using them within a year due to high costs. 

At the same time, researchers flagged a rapid growth in weight loss drugs among young people, even though weight loss drugs such as Ozempic are not approved in children. The monthly number of adolescents and young adults using GLP-1 medications increased by 594% from 2020 to 2023.

Developing markets seek health solutions

Guillén highlights that health remains a top priority for consumers, noting that the sector continues to grow. 

Guillén details that health is a top consumer priority, with the global market growth expected to return to pre-COVID rates.“Year after year, we witness how opportunities in the nutraceutical ingredients sector continue to expand, particularly among companies that have traditionally been pharmaceutical but are now broadening their scope. This shift is in response to consumers who seek pharmacological solutions for their conditions and natural products that support their overall well-being throughout all stages of life.” 

She projects that 2024 is a “year of stabilization” after the post-COVID-19 market slowdown, with global market growth expected to return to pre-pandemic rates. 

“The key drivers behind this growth include the aging population in mature, highly developed regions like Europe and the US, as well as the growing interest in natural solutions among Millennials and younger generations.” 

“We also anticipate significant growth in countries where the market was previously less developed, such as India, Mexico and parts of Southeast Asia, as consumer education and access to these solutions increase,” she adds. 

She points to trending health areas such as sustainable weight management, which is “here to stay.” Guillén predicts that this space will expand to other aspects of metabolic health, such as cardiovascular health and glucose management. 

“Mental health is another area of rising demand, starting with solutions for sleep support and evolving into more complex cognitive enhancement ingredients. Another notable trend is ‘skinification,’ where the focus on skin health through nutricosmetics also extends to include hair care.” 

Moreover, she states: “Women’s health solutions continue to see significant growth as well, driven by increasing awareness and demand for targeted support in this category.”

SuanNutra will exhibit at CPHI with its subsidiaries Monteloeder and Gonmisol.Comprehensive portfolio

At CPHI stand 1B34, SuanNutra will showcase its portfolio of comprehensive solutions for the nutraceutical ingredients industry at the show, together with its subsidiaries Gonmisol and Monteloeder. 

“We can supply any functional ingredient required, regardless of origin, specification or quantity. This allows us to cater to various client demands, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness to market needs.”

At the same time, Guillén highlights the company’s focus on science “with a branded portfolio backed by at least two clinical studies, patents and industry awards.” 

“This dual approach means we can meet any requirement our clients face, regardless of their size, target market or desired health benefit. Ultimately, our goal is to be a true partner, helping our clients thrive in this dynamic industry by offering custom solutions and scientifically validated products that stand out in the marketplace,” she concludes.