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Brain health Supplements and Drug Interaction

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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].
Source:

Top supplement brands & companies

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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

Married happily forever after: Relationship between digestive and brain health

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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. (Ambien)
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

Merchandising Brain Supplements in Grocery Stores

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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.

Maximizing Space: Effective Merchandising for Natural Health Products in Pharmacies

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The Art of Merchandising Natural Health Products

The evolution of natural health products in pharmacies has been significant in recent years. Due to the Covid pandemic a new wave and growing demand for alternative and complementary medicine, as well as a growing awareness of the potential health benefits of natural products have flooded your typical pharmacy.

The most remarkable aspect is that demand did not take away from your boutique health food store segment whatsoever. For the simple fact that the Health Food store segment continues to cater to a more advanced clientele with wider adoption span and extremely targeted needs.

In response to this demand, many pharmacies now offer a wide range of natural health products, including herbal supplements, homeopathic remedies, and essential oils that are outside of your regular vitamin c and typical mainstream brands.

Some pharmacies have even increased their dedicated natural health product sections, staffed it with knowledgeable employees who can provide advice and recommendations to customers as well as now pharmacist themeshelve despite what the institutions that govern them position on the topic have had a few decades of self and in certain cases forced education.

Space, Space and Space

Like any other retail establishment, they also face limited space challenges that can impact their operations and ability to provide services to customers. But pharmacists have their lot of specific challenges that are different than a health food store, such as:

  1. Inventory Management: Pharmacies carry a large variety of products, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and health and wellness products. Storing these items in a limited space can be challenging and requires careful planning to ensure that all products are easily accessible and properly stored.
  2. Customer Flow: Pharmacies need to ensure that customers have access to the products and services they need, but also need to make the most of their limited space. This can mean that there is limited room for customer traffic, which can lead to long lines and wait times.
  3. Privacy and Security: Pharmacies are often required to store sensitive patient information, and they must maintain the privacy and security of this information while still allowing customers to access the products and services they need. In a limited space, this can be challenging, as it requires careful planning and secure storage solutions.
  4. Equipment and Technology: Pharmacies need to have access to the latest technology and equipment to provide the best possible care to their customers. In a limited space, this can be challenging, as there may not be enough room for all of the necessary equipment.
  5. Employee Workflow: Pharmacies have a variety of tasks that need to be completed, from filling prescriptions to consulting with customers mixed with servicing non health related products like from greeting cards to in some cases produce. In a limited space, it can be challenging to ensure that employees have enough room to perform their tasks efficiently and effectively.

Evolution brings constraint

Yes, more demand but with the regulatory restriction we are still in a single ingredient driven business mostly in a pharmacy environment which does not have the same access to the same type of clientele a boutique health food store will serve.

Therefore merchandising single ingredient products in a pharmacy is the prevailing solution but can be a bit of a challenge, especially when you have a limited space of 2,000 sq/ft. For teh sake of this article we will work with our imaginary 2,000 sq/ft pharmacy.

With proper planning and execution, Mr. Pharmacist at Imaginary pharmacy can effectively merchandise products and increase sales with some easy and simple tricks.

  1. Plan your space: Before you start merchandising your products, it’s important to have a clear understanding of your available space. Make a rough layout of the store and identify areas that can be used for product display. It’s important to consider traffic flow and accessibility in your store layout.
  2. Use Vertical Space: In a small space like a 2,000 sq/ft pharmacy, it’s important to make the most of the available vertical space. Consider using wall-mounted shelving units or installing freestanding displays that make use of the height of the room.
  3. Display high-margin products only: Display your high-margin products prominently in the store. These could be products that are in high demand, have a large profit margin, or are unique to your store. This will help drive sales and increase profitability while the lower margin products are only available online.
  4. Group similar products: Grouping similar products together can make it easier for customers to find what they’re looking for, and can also help create a sense of organization in your store. For example, you can group a variety of vitamins and supplements together per generic health needs.
  5. Use Signage: Use clear and concise signage to help customers find what they’re looking for. You can use signs to highlight new products, best-selling products, or products that are on sale. Additionally, you can use signs to provide customers with information about the products you carry, such as dosage, usage, and benefits.
  6. Create Product Displays: Product displays can be an effective way to highlight specific products in your store. Consider creating eye-catching displays that showcase the products and make them more appealing to customers. You can use props, signs, and lighting to create a visually appealing display.
  7. Offer Samples: Offering samples at the counter can be an effective way to drive sales. Keep in mind that at the counter you have their attention.
  8. Utilize Technology: Utilize technology to enhance the customer experience and make it easier for them to find what they’re looking for. You can use electronic displays to show product information, such as ingredients, benefits, and usage instructions. You can also use technology to create interactive displays, such as virtual product demonstrations or interactive product information displays.

Merchandising single ingredient products in a 2,000 sq/ft pharmacy can be a challenge, but with proper planning and execution, it can be done effectively. By making use of vertical space, displaying high-margin products, grouping similar products, using signage, creating product displays, offering samples, and utilizing technology, you can increase sales and profitability in your pharmacy.

Chicory Survey Indicates Greater Reliance on Online Grocery Shopping

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Chicory, the leading contextual commerce advertising platform, released findings from its 2023 Online Grocery Shopping Report. The annual report, which features results from a survey of more than 1,000 U.S. consumers, analyzes the key characteristics and behaviors of online grocery shoppers. Insights include online order frequency, average basket value, retailer preferences, cart composition, shopping challenges and more.

“While online grocery adoption has slowed in recent years, activity is rising. Consumers are more comfortable than ever browsing for deals online, meal planning using digital recipes, and purchasing their full shopping lists in just a few clicks,” said Chicory Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and co-founder Yuni Sameshima. “CPG and grocery retailers can capitalize on this trend by investing in e-commerce solutions that meet consumers where they are, and in the moments that matter.”

Online grocery activity remains strong: more than half (56%) of qualified respondents said they order groceries online more frequently now than one year ago.

Online grocery shoppers are extremely valuable: those who spend the most on online grocery orders ($201+), place orders the most frequently.

Convenience remains the number one driver of online grocery shopping: approximately 74% of respondents selected convenience as a top driver of their decision to order groceries online. Price is the second most important factor.

Walmart wins with consumers: out of a pool of 20 retailers, Walmart received the most votes from respondents as their preferred retailer for online grocery shopping.

Recipe content drives online grocery shopping activity: food blogs and recipe sites, alongside social media platforms, are the top sources of online meal inspiration. Consumers are comfortable purchasing directly from these channels too: approximately 51% are likely (32%) or very likely (18.5%) to purchase directly from food content.


Goli® Nutrition Announced as a Winner of 2022 NielsenIQ BASES Breakthrough Innovation Awards

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This award is presented by NielsenIQ BASES, the gold standard in innovation, concept screening, product evaluation, and optimization for more than 40 years.
BASES monitors new product launches in over 30 markets across the globe. For the past 11 years, BASES has released its Innovation report, recognizing the most innovative products launched globally in various categories such as personal care, diet and nutrition, food, beverages, and more.

In 2022, the Breakthrough Innovation team reviewed thousands of product launches and recognized 36 established brands with this coveted award. Goli Nutrition is among these brands having successfully disrupted the market by addressing key consumer needs and stand-out experiences through innovation.

“We are honored to be named one of NielsenIQ BASES Innovative Brands,” said Goli Co-founder, Michael Bitensky. “We strive to continue to innovate while keeping health simple, and providing the community with the best products for their everyday wellness journey.”

Vitamins Angels Expanded

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Last Year, VITAMIN ANGELS EXPANDED NUMBER AND SCOPE OF MMS PROGRAMS GLOBALLY.

Vitamin Angels, a public health nonprofit working to improve maternal and child nutrition worldwide, successfully expanded its multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) – also known as prenatal vitamins and minerals – programs globally in 2022. The expansion resulted in enhanced global awareness and recognition of the importance of MMS and greater support for women and infants globally. In collaboration with its partners, Vitamin Angels reached over 71 million underserved pregnant women and children in about 65 countries, including all 50 U.S. states and Puerto Rico with evidence-based nutrition interventions in 2022.

“One of our key focuses in 2022 was to expand the number and scope of our MMS programs globally, including within the US, and to help build consensus within the public health community around MMS,” said Howard B. Schiffer, Vitamin Angels Founder & President. “We made significant progress and there is still a lot more work to be done to ensure that every pregnant person in need has access to MMS.”

Specific program highlights in 2022 included:

Supported Development of Indonesian National MMS Policy – One of Vitamin Angel’s largest MMS projects is in Indonesia, where they are concentrating efforts on exploring the introduction of MMS for pregnant women. In doing so, Vitamin Angels is collaborating with government and several academic partners to explore the systematic introduction of MMS within the antenatal system in Indonesia.

Addressed Global Supply Chain Issues – Vitamin Angels helped to build an effective MMS supply strategy for countries (at the country, regional, and global scale), and addressed challenges of manufacturing and the increasing global demand for MMS. They worked in partnership with Kirk Humanitarian, to publish a paper, UNIMMAP MMS for National Health Systems: Considerations for Developing Supply Strategy, which addresses the need to scale the global supply of multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) to meet the growing demand.

Partnered with UNICEF to Combat Undernutrition in India – Vitamin Angels partnered with UNICEF in India to combat undernutrition and expand awareness around the importance of maternal nutrition. The goal of the program is to address the undernutrition of mothers and children up to age five at the population level across India.
Other organization highlights from the year included:

Corporate Partner Impact Achievements

Vitamin Angels’ success wouldn’t have been possible without outstanding support from its corporate partners in 2022. Walgreens achieved the significant milestone of reaching over 350M women and children through their partnership with Vitamin Angels, and expanded the Chicago prenatal pilot program, which distributes free Vitamin Angels prenatal vitamins and minerals and nutrition education to underserved pregnant women in the south and west sides of Chicago, through participating Walgreens locations. Bayer reached over 4M women and children with MMS and played a key role in Vitamin Angels’ ability to expand its MMS programs globally. Other corporate partners who gave generously in 2022 included SmartyPants and The Vitamin Shoppe.

Implementation of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program

In 2022, Vitamin Angels’ DEI efforts focused on the development of an internal process of continuous stakeholder feedback for all staff regarding DEI training, career advancement, recruitment, and retention. This effort ensures that every person who works at Vitamin Angels feels like they belong and that their contributions are valued. Vitamin Angels believes that the investment into a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace is important to accomplish its goals and will continue to expand and improve their DEI efforts in the coming year.

New Vitamin Angels Website

Vitamin Angels launched a new website in January 2023. The new website reflects the mission and ongoing work of Vitamin Angels and documents the growth the organization has achieved over the last three decades.

Looking ahead, the organization aims to double their impact to reach 140 million women and children annually by 2033. To achieve this, they will continue to work with their partners to build consensus around MMS and provide more innovative technical assistance through learning solutions, monitoring and evaluation, and supply chain solutions. They will also expand their scope of work with a more comprehensive package of maternal, infant, and young child nutrition interventions and social behavior change strategies to enhance uptake and adherence.

METRO INC. announcement

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METRO INC.  announced the closing of the previously announced private placement offering of C$300 million aggregate principal amount of 4.657% Series K Senior Unsecured Notes due February 7, 2033 (the “Series K Notes”).

The Series K Notes are being offered through an agency syndicate consisting of BMO Capital Markets, National Bank Financial Inc. and RBC Dominion Securities Inc. as co-lead managers and joint book runners and CIBC World Markets Inc., Desjardins Securities Inc., Scotia Capital Inc., TD Securities Inc. and Casgrain & Company Limited as co-managers.

The Series K Notes, which carry a coupon of 4.657%, were priced at $1,000 per $1,000 principal amount, for an effective yield of 4.657% per annum if held to maturity.

Metro intends to use the proceeds of the offering to repay existing indebtedness under its revolving credit facility and for general corporate purposes.

Considering the bond forward contracts previously entered into, Metro estimates that the effective blended interest rate of the Series K Notes will correspond to approximately 4.71% per annum.

The Series K Notes are direct unsecured obligations of Metro and rank pari passu with all other unsecured and unsubordinated indebtedness of Metro.

The Series K Notes are being offered in Canada on a private placement basis in reliance upon exemptions from the prospectus requirements under applicable securities legislation and are rated BBB with a positive trend, by DBRS Limited, and BBB by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any security and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale of any securities in any jurisdiction in which such offering, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

The Series K Notes have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “U.S. Securities Act”) or any state securities laws and may not be offered, sold or delivered in the United States of America or its territories or possessions or to U.S. persons except in compliance with the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or pursuant to an exemption therefrom. The information in this press release is not complete and may be changed. This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the Series K Notes in the United States.

GFI Announces Major Partnership with Direct Store Resellers

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Global Food Ingredients Limited is pleased to announce that it has entered into agreements with two Master Direct Sellers. In the United States, the company’s Bentilia product brand is expected to significantly increase usage of its innovative line of wholesome, healthy red lentil pasta in the Tri-State and Chicago areas.

Beginning in mid-February, Bentilia’s partnership with Rainforest Distribution will give the brand access to potentially thousands of new distribution locations in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions, while its partnership with Goldmine Distribution is expected to expand in the U.S., Chicago area and further afield in Illinois.

“Having a strong DSD partner in the highly competitive urban areas of the country is critical to improving marketing effectiveness and in-store visibility when expanding new brands,” commented Prashant Jairaj, Vice President, Plant-Based Consumer Products, GFI. “Through Rainforest and Goldmine, we have established a strategic partnership with two well-respected direct sellers in key high-density geographies that we believe will help accelerate our growth in these markets and drive growth in our portfolio. speed and revenue.”

In addition to its DSD partnerships, the Bentilia brand continues to see growing momentum through the Company’s warehouse distribution partnership with KeHE, with several key regional chains such as Woodman’s and the Healthy Edge Group now carrying the brand in addition to several hundred independent doors.

Bentilia is also one of the few brands to be part of KeHE’s Growth Solutions presentation that recommends the product into retailer shelf sets nationally and will be part of KeHE’s 2023 Summer Show from February 6th Bentilia offers a range of premium pasta, including three red lentil-based varieties and a superfood option, Bentilia10, a macaroni made from red lentil flour and 10 other natural ingredients, resulting in a pasta containing 21 key A unique blend of nutrients ideal for a healthy lifestyle. Gluten-free, nutrient-dense, Bentilia is low in sodium and saturated fat while providing naturally high levels of fiber (9 grams per serving) and protein (20 grams per serving), all made from 100% locally sourced lentils.