The Muscle Mag
Richard Day, as the Vice President of Medical Affairs & Clinical Development at ADM, is responsible for overseeing the design and implementation of clinical research within the company’s global Health & Wellness business. This positions him well to discuss the most exciting topics in research and discoveries currently happening.
In a conversation with NutraIngredients-Europe Editor Nikki Hancocks for NI’s Cognitive Health special edition newsletter, Day shares insights on the current state of research and what his team aims to achieve next.
“There is a notable increase in the number of preclinical and clinical trials being published each year,” he affirms. “The scientific community and consumers alike show a growing interest in this field, with narrative reviews, systematic reviews, meta-analysis, and randomised placebo-controlled trials all contributing to this momentum.”
Day reflects on the shifting attitudes towards mental health and the gut-brain axis, drawing from his background as a psychiatrist. He notes the convergence of societal interest, changing consumer perspectives on proactive health management, and scientific advancements in this area.
“The alignment of these factors creates a perfect storm, making research on the gut-brain axis one of the most intriguing areas to explore right now,” he adds.
Day highlights the potential of using biotics in regulating mood and depression, citing recent discoveries from ADM’s scientists. He mentions a study demonstrating significant outcomes on depression measures and hints at upcoming trials focusing on anxiety management using probiotics and botanical extracts.
Additionally, the team is investigating the impact of probiotics on Parkinson’s symptoms and cognitive functions in menopausal women. Exciting developments are underway, showcasing the dynamic field of gut-brain research.
For the full interview, watch the video with NutraIngredients-Europe Editor Nikki Hancocks.
