Is pea-based protein the next big thing? What are the best ways to promote healthy aging? These are just a few themes our specialists explored at the annual Food and Nutrition Conference and Expo (FNCE).
Sponsored by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, FNCE 2018 brings together more than 10,000 registered dietitian nutritionists, nutrition science researchers, policy makers, health-care providers, and industry leaders.
This year, three of our Herbalife Nutrition experts attended FNCE to learn about the latest nutrition trends and keep up to date with front-line knowledge.
These are their findings:
Top Trends at FNCE 2018
Pea-Protein Products
Jasneet Kaur
Medical Science Liaison, Global Consumer Safety at Herbalife Nutrition
Food allergies and intolerance are on the rise, and consumers are looking for foods that are high in protein, but free from common allergens such as wheat, gluten, and dairy.
At FNCE, pea-based products came out as the top protein source alternative. Vendors sold pea-based yogurts, protein bars, and veggie burgers. I also spotted almond protein powders, chickpea snacks, lentil chips, and even chickpea pasta containing 14 grams of protein and 8g of fiber.
Genetic Testing for Personalized Nutrition
Simon Sum
Manager, Product Science, Worldwide R&D and Scientific Affairs at Herbalife Nutrition
Direct-to-consumer (DTC) genetic testing options are now a reality in the market. Genetic testing can be used to understand one’s own health risks and how nutrition can help prevent or mitigate those risks.
This trend will allow the fitness and nutrition industry to provide a more personalized plan for their customers to achieve their wellness goals. Gaining insight into their own genetic makeup will allow people to make more accurate nutrition and exercise decisions.
Key Takeaway: Plant-Based Proteins on the Rise
The global plant-based protein market has been on the rise for some time and will continue to be. It is estimated that by 2025, the market will be valued at $16.3 billion. A huge driver behind this trend is that consumers are becoming more health-conscious, and plant-based proteins offer many health benefits:
They are complete proteins
The human body is only able to produce 11 of the 20 amino acids that make up protein. The other nine must come from your diet. The good news? Soy, quinoa, buckwheat, and hemp contain all nine of those essential amino acids, making them “complete proteins.”
Low in calories
Plant-based proteins are nutrient-dense. They provide an abundance of proteins, minerals, vitamins, and carbohydrates relative to their calorie cost. Plant-based proteins tend to be lower in calories and fat than animal proteins but higher in fiber and essential nutrients.
No saturated fat
Meat is a common source of protein, but fat accompanies it. An elevated level of saturated fat in your blood could raise cholesterol and clog your arteries. With plant-based proteins, you get less saturated fat and no cholesterol.
Free of growth hormones
Cattle are sometimes given hormones to boost growth. Research has shown potentially adverse effects of this, such as increasing the probability of developing certain types of cancer and premature puberty in children. Plant-based proteins are free of growth hormones altogether.
Herbalife Nutrition offers a variety of plant-based protein options.Learn more about plant-based nutrition here.
Susan BowermanM.S., R.D., CSSD, CSOWM, FAND – Sr. Director, Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training
Susan Bowerman is the senior director of Worldwide Nutrition Education and Training at Herbalife. She also serves as the Vice Chair of the Dietetic Advisory Board (DAB). As a registered dietitian, she educates distributors about our global nutrition philosophy and is responsible for developing nutrition education and training materials. Bowerman earned a B.S. in Biology with distinction from the University of Colorado and an M.S. in Food Science and Nutrition from Colorado State University. She is a fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and holds two board certifications as a specialist in Sports Dietetics and in Obesity and Weight Management. When she is not busy teaching and writing, Susan enjoys spending time with her family, cooking and gardening. Her favorite Herbalife products include Simply Probiotic and Herbalife Formula 1 Healthy Meal Nutritional Shake Mix Banana Caramel.