IHR Brain Series – Special Issue


Merchandising Brain Supplements in Grocery Stores

Brain health supplements are growing in popularity as consumers become more aware of the importance of taking care of their brain health. Grocery stores are ideal places to sell these products due to high foot traffic and high visibility. When marketing brain health supplements at the grocery store, it’s important to consider several key factors.

In-store Location

The first step in marketing brain health supplements in the grocery store is identifying the best locations. This should be a highly visible and easily accessible location to customers. Ideally, the location should be near the cash register or near the store entrance. This will help grab the attention of customers and make it easier for them to find the product.

Advertise

After choosing a location, the next step is to create a display for your brain supplements. It is important to choose a visually appealing display that stands out from other products in the store. Consider using layered displays to create focal points and make it easy for customers to see different products. Also, be sure to post a sign that clearly identifies the product as a “brain health supplement.”

Financial support

To further entice customers to purchase brain health supplements, consider using promotional materials. This can include signs, flyers, and even digital ads on social media. Consider offering discounts, samples, or other incentives to entice customers to purchase products. Additionally, you can create special displays for specific products to draw attention to them.

Product information

It is also important to provide customers with detailed information about the product. This should include product descriptions, ingredients and directions for use. Consider providing a brochure or other material that includes this information and an FAQ section. This helps customers to make informed decisions when buying a product.

Married happily forever after: Relationship between digestive and brain health

The relationship between digestive health and brain health is increasingly being recognized by medical professionals and researchers. Both the digestive system and the brain work together to maintain overall health and well-being, and disruption in either one may cause a disruption in the other. A healthy digestive system is important for proper nutrition, which in turn is essential for the functioning of the brain. In addition, an unhealthy digestive system has been linked to various neurological conditions, such as depression, anxiety, and even Alzheimer’s disease.

The digestive system is responsible for breaking down food into nutrients that the body can use for energy and for the production of hormones, enzymes, and other substances necessary for optimal health. These nutrients are then transported to the brain, which needs them to function correctly. Thus, a disruption in the digestive system can lead to malnourishment, which in turn can lead to a decrease in cognitive performance.

The gut microbiome is an important part of the relationship between digestive health and brain health. The microbiome is made up of trillions of bacteria and other microorganisms that live in the digestive tract. It plays a vital role in the digestion and absorption of nutrients and has been shown to affect the brain and its functioning. Research has shown that an unhealthy microbiome can lead to inflammation, which can then lead to neurological disorders, including depression and anxiety.

In fact, the gastrointestinal system is sometimes referred to as the “second brain” due to its complex network of neurons that sends signals to the brain. This connection is so strong that it has been referred to as the gut-brain axis.

The link between digestive health and brain health is well established. Studies have shown that digestive issues can have a significant impact on mental health. For example, gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have been linked to depression and anxiety. In addition, research has found that imbalances in the gut microbiome can lead to a variety of neurological and cognitive disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and an autism spectrum disorder.

The brain and the digestive system also communicate with each other through the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is a large nerve that runs from the brain to the gut, and it carries signals from the brain to the digestive system. This communication between the two systems is essential for proper digestion and absorption of nutrients and can be disrupted by stress and poor nutrition.The relationship between digestive health and brain health is complex, and both systems play an important role in maintaining overall health and well-being. A healthy digestive system is essential for proper nutrition, which in turn is essential for the functioning of the brain. The gut microbiome is also important, as an unhealthy microbiome can lead to inflammation, which can then lead to neurological disorders.  By understanding the connection between digestive health and brain health, we can work to maintain both systems for optimal health.

Did you know:
The digestive system is home to about 100 trillion bacteria, which are sometimes referred to as the gut microbiome. These bacteria play a key role in helping the body break down food, absorb nutrients, and protect from infections.
Are you guys getting a divorce?
Bad Relationship between digestive and brain health
1. Increased risk of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
2. Increased risk of mental health issues such as depression and anxiety.
3. Increased risk of cognitive decline.
4. Increased risk of neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.
5. Increased risk of nutrient deficiencies due to poor absorption of nutrients from the digestive system.
6. Impaired gut-brain communication.
7. Increased risk of developing autoimmune diseases.
8. Impaired immune system function.
9. Increased risk of food intolerances and allergies.
10. Increased risk of leaky gut syndrome.

Top ten supplements for digestive health

1. Probiotics
2. Fiber Supplements
3. Digestive Enzymes
4. Prebiotics
5. Glutamine
6. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
7. Betaine HCl
8. Aloe Vera
9. Apple Cider Vinegar
10. Ginger Root

Top ten supplements for neurological disorders

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
2. Magnesium
3. Vitamin B Complex
4. Acetyl-L-Carnitine
5. Ginkgo Biloba
6. N-Acetyl Cysteine (NAC)
7. Curcumin
8. Pycnogenol
9. Phosphatidylserine
10. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10)

Top ten supplements for depression and anxiety

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
2. Probiotics
3. Vitamin D
4. St. John’s Wort
5. Ginkgo Biloba
6. Passionflower
7. Lavender
8. Chamomile
9. Magnesium
10. Valerian Root

Top ten supplements for  irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)

1. Probiotics
2. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
3. Magnesium
4. Zinc
5. Fiber Supplements
6. Peppermint Oil
7. Curcumin
8. Vitamin D
9. Glutamine
10. Aloe Vera Juice

Top twelve supplements for overall brain health

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
2. Phosphatidylserine
3. Acetyl-L-Carnitine
4. Ginkgo Biloba
5. Bacopa Monnieri
6. Rhodiola Rosea
7. Vitamin B Complex
8. Curcumin
9. Ashwagandha
10. Magnesium

11. Pycnogenol
12. Vitamin B12

Top ten supplements for Alzheimer’s prevention

1. Vitamin E
2. Omega-3 fatty acids
3. Ginkgo biloba
4. Curcumin
5. Vitamin B12
6. Acetyl-L-Carnitine
7. Coenzyme Q10
8. Resveratrol
9. N-Acetyl Cysteine
10. Ashwagandha

Top supplement brands & companies

When it comes to brain health, whether for your online store or in-store, it is essential that you have available the best supplements to ensure that your brain offering is optimized.  There are many supplement brands on the market that can support your section, but some are more renowned than others.

Between online sales and retail, we combine the following suggestions. In no particular order:

Top supplement brands or companies for your brain health section:

1. Nature Made
2. Garden of Life, Dr. Formulated
3. Life Extension
4. Jarrow Formulas
5. NOW Foods
6. Solgar
7. Source Naturals
8. Nootropics Depot
9. Thorne Research
10. Pure Encapsulations

11. Alpha Brain
12. Qualia Mind
13. Neuro Peak
14. Optimind
15. Esa Organic Brain Rocket
16. Oweli Neuro Brain
17. Focus Formula
18. Brainzyme
19. CogniTune
20. BrainMD
21. Brain Energy Plus
22. Nordic Naturals
23. Doctor’s Best
14. Nature’s Way
15. New Chapter
16. Rainbow Light
17. Klaire Labs
18. Carlson Labs
19. Jigsaw Health
20. Renew Life
21. Country Life
22. Biotics Research
23. Megafood
25. HealthForce Nutritionals
26. Nutricost
27. Natural Factors
28. Hyperbiotics
29. Purple Rice Plus
30. Zhou Nutrition
31. Health Thru Nutrition
32. LifeTime
33. Vital Nutrients
34. Metagenics
35. Integrative Therapeutics
36. Anabolic Laboratories
37. Pure Essence Labs
38. Country Life Core
39. Health Concerns
40. Irwin Naturals
41. Pure Synergy
42. Dr. Mercola
43. Trace Minerals Research
44. DR Vitamin Solutions
45. Megavits Vitamins

Brain health Supplements and Drug Interaction

Contraindications can be based on a variety of factors, including your medical history, other medications including Natural Health Supplements you are taking, existing health conditions, and potential interactions between the drug and other substances. As well, a drug may be contraindicated for someone with a history of a certain condition, such as liver disease, because it could make their condition worse. A drug may also be contraindicated for someone who is taking a Natural Health Supplement that could interact with it in a dangerous way. It is important to always consult with a healthcare provider before taking any new medication to ensure it is safe and appropriate for you.

For example:

Iron supplementation is not recommended for brain health, as it can increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular conditions. However, iron deficiency, which can be caused by inadequate dietary intake or heavy menstrual bleeding, has been linked to poor cognitive performance and can result in impaired learning and memory. Therefore, if you are at risk of iron deficiency, it may be beneficial to discuss supplementation with your healthcare provider.

Counter indications:

1. Probiotics: People with weakened immune systems, or who are on immunosuppressant medications, should not take probiotics without consulting a doctor.
2. Fiber Supplements: People with gastrointestinal conditions, such as diverticulitis, should not take fibre supplements without consulting a doctor.
3. Digestive Enzymes: People with acute pancreatitis should not take digestive enzymes without consulting a doctor.
4. Prebiotics: People with weakened immune systems, or who are on immunosuppressant medications, should not take prebiotics without consulting a doctor.
5. Glutamine: People with liver or kidney disease should not take glutamine without consulting a doctor.
6. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: People taking blood thinning medications, such as warfarin, should not take omega-3 fatty acids without consulting a doctor.
7. Betaine HCl: People with gastric ulcers should not take betaine HCl without consulting a doctor.
8. Aloe Vera: People with kidney disease, or who are taking diuretic medications, should not take aloe vera without consulting a doctor.
9. Apple Cider Vinegar: People with diabetes, gastroparesis or low potassium levels should not take apple cider vinegar without consulting a doctor.
10. Ginger Root: People with gallbladder disease should not take ginger root without consulting a doctor.
11. St. John’s Wort: People with depression, or those taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), should not take St. John’s wort without consulting a doctor.
12. Passionflower: People with depression, or those taking benzodiazepines, should not take passionflower without consulting a doctor.
13. Lavender: People with hormone-sensitive conditions, such as endometriosis, should not take lavender without consulting a doctor.
14. Magnesium: People with kidney disease should not take magnesium without consulting a doctor.
15. Valerian Root: People with depression, or those taking benzodiazepines, should not take valerian root without consulting a doctor.
16. Zinc: People with weakened immune systems, or who are on immunosuppressant medications, should not take zinc without consulting a doctor.
17. Peppermint Oil: People with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should not take peppermint oil without consulting a doctor.
18. Vitamin D: People with kidney disease should not take vitamin D without consulting a doctor.
19. Bacopa Monnieri: People with bleeding disorders, or those taking anticoagulants, should not take bacopa monnieri without consulting a doctor.
20. Rhodiola Rosea: People with heart arrhythmias, or those taking heart medications, should not take Rhodiola rosea without consulting a doctor.
21. Ashwagandha: People with thyroid disorders, or those taking thyroid medications, should not take ashwagandha without consulting a doctor.
22. Pycnogenol: People with bleeding disorders, or those taking anticoagulants, should not take pycnogenol without consulting a doctor.
23. Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10): People with diabetes, or those taking statins, should not take coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) without consulting a doctor.
24. Vitamin B Complex: People with kidney disease should not take vitamin B complex without consulting a doctor.
25. Acetyl-L-Carnitine: People with kidney disease should not take acetyl-L-carnitine without consulting a doctor.
26. Phosphatidylserine: People with bleeding disorders, or those taking anticoagulants, should not take phosphatidylserine without consulting a doctor.
27. Curcumin: People with gallbladder disease should not take curcumin without consulting a doctor.
28. Vitamin B12: People with kidney disease should not take vitamin B12 without consulting a doctor.
29. Magnesium: People with kidney disease should not take magnesium without consulting a doctor.

30. Vitamin E: People with weakened immune systems, or who are on immunosuppressant medications, should not take vitamin E without consulting a doctor.
Medications that interact:
Vitamin E: 
some medications that can interact with Vitamin E include anticoagulants, such as warfarin (Coumadin), blood thinners, and certain cholesterol-lowering medications. Additionally, Vitamin E can decrease the effectiveness of certain drugs, such as quinolone antibiotics, beta-blockers, and certain medications used to treat HIV/AIDS.
Omega-3 fatty acids: 
Such as DHA and EPA, can interact with blood thinners, including warfarin and aspirin, as well as some cholesterol-lowering medications[1]. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids can decrease the effectiveness of certain medications, including statins, insulin, and certain anticoagulants.
Ginkgo biloba:
Can interact with several medications, including anticoagulants, such as warfarin and aspirin, as well as certain cholesterol-lowering medications[2]. Additionally, Ginkgo biloba can decrease the effectiveness of certain medications, such as quinolone antibiotics and certain antidepressants.
Curcumin:
Some medications that can interact with curcumin include certain anticoagulants, such as warfarin (Coumadin) and aspirin, as well as some cholesterol-lowering medications[2]. Additionally, curcumin can decrease the effectiveness of certain medications, such as quinolone antibiotics, beta-blockers, and certain medications used to treat HIV/AIDS.
Vitamin B12:
Can interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, such as warfarin (Coumadin) and aspirin, as well as some cholesterol-lowering medications[2]. Additionally, Vitamin B12 can decrease the effectiveness of certain medications, such as quinolone antibiotics and certain antidepressants.
Acetyl-L-Carnitine:
Can interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, such as warfarin (Coumadin) and aspirin, as well as some cholesterol-lowering medications[2]. Additionally, Acetyl-L-Carnitine can decrease the effectiveness of certain medications, such as quinolone antibiotics, beta-blockers, and certain medications used to treat HIV/AIDS.
Coenzyme Q10:
Can interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, such as warfarin (Coumadin) and aspirin, as well as some cholesterol-lowering medications[2]. Additionally, Coenzyme Q10 can decrease the effectiveness of certain medications, such as quinolone antibiotics, beta-blockers, and certain medications used to treat HIV/AIDS.
Resveratrol:
Can interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, such as warfarin (Coumadin) and aspirin, as well as some cholesterol-lowering medications[1]. Additionally, Resveratrol can decrease the effectiveness of certain medications, such as quinolone antibiotics, beta-blockers, and certain medications used to treat HIV/AIDS.
N-Acetyl Cysteine:
Can interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, such as warfarin (Coumadin) and aspirin, as well as some cholesterol-lowering medications[2]. Additionally, N-Acetyl Cysteine can decrease the effectiveness of certain medications, such as quinolone antibiotics, beta-blockers, and certain medications used to treat HIV/AIDS.
Ashwagandha:
Can interact with certain medications, such as anticoagulants, blood thinners, and certain cholesterol-lowering medications[2]. Additionally, Ashwagandha can decrease the effectiveness of certain medications, such as quinolone antibiotics, beta-blockers, and certain medications used to treat HIV/AIDS. It is also important to note that Ashwagandha can reduce the absorption of certain vitamins, minerals, and protein, so it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking Ashwagandha in combination with other medications[3].
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