Top ingredients such as Vitamin D, Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate were profiled in several publications and often for their multi-functional benefits this year and previous years. These nutritional supplements have even been integrated into the daily regimen and treatment of patients who may have been diagnosed with diseases or illnesses by their physicians. Harsh side-effects are among some of the reasons doctors and their patients decide to use complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Overall, the use of nutritional supplements in the daily lives of millions in the U.S. is no longer a buzz, but rather a full roar supported by evidence that has moved this industry to create innovative products for the future.

The “D” Factor

Vitamin D received lots of attention in the industry due to the multi-functional and multi-beneficial features it has on the human body. In the recent media frenzy that surrounded the Swine Flu (H1N1), Vitamin D has become an overnight sensation in mainstream and health related newspapers, medical journals and blogs as an alternative way to fight against the flu. Recent questions among consumers especially individuals with children about the vaccination for H1N1 have prompted people to search for other alternatives to a vaccine that is currently surrounded by questions gone unanswered this flu season.

Reducing the risk of falls by senior citizens was the topic in a research performed by the British Medical Journal (BMJ). The study concluded that a specified intake of Vitamin D per day reduced the risk of falling by 19 percent. The study’s particular focus was Vitamin D2 (Ergocalciferol) and D3 (Cholecalciferol) and their affects on individuals over the age of 65. In addition to current and past research on Vitamin D, the world renowned Mayo Clinic’s website has also listed strong evidence of this nutritional supplement for osteoporosis to breast cancer.

A Joint Venture

Found in the cells of the bone’s cartilage, Glucosamine and Chondroitin are two ingredients that have been proven to help alleviate arthritis symptoms. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) and the National Center for Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases conducted a $12.5 million study on pain-relief and the effects of a Glucosamine-Chondroitin combo treatment against a proven prescription painkiller or placebo. The study showed that both supplements provided relief to individuals suffering moderate to severe pain. Glucosamine and Chondroitin are recommended by many doctors in treating arthritis.

The dietary supplement industry boast an enormous variety of products containing these major ingredients based on research available to both the manufacturer and the consumer. They remain the leading ingredients in joint health for the nutritional supplement industry.

Hot Commodity

The quintessential commodity market of Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) is not only backed by a high demand amongst manufacturers, but an industry that produces a high volume of products for its consumers. Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting abilities, which can be found in most multi-vitamins, beverages and foods. From preventing the common cold to providing benefits to aging, manufacturers have the opportunity to create products that are more than just lip-service, but effective and functional.

Scientist at the Boston University School of Medicine and the Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University published a study with the discovery that a specific daily dosage of the supplement Vitamin C could significantly reduce high blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. The conclusion from the study resulted in a 9 percent blood pressure decrease. Supported by the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institutes of Health, this research is a prime example of how dietary supplements could benefit a disease that plagues many people in the U.S. market.

As the demand continues to grow, more research will be conducted for the future of the dietary supplement industry and its top commodities like Vitamin C. More and more, consumers are beginning to pay attention to what goes into their bodies. In particular, foods with defined functions have become a dominant force within the market. Food and beverages that promote health and wellness, and the research behind them are some of the key factors product development departments can use to create ground-breaking effective goods for all to benefit.