TheScienceOf
Gut Health

What it is:

A certified organic, all-natural blend of baobab fruit pulp and acacia gum — two African botanicals traditionally used for their nutritional and medicinal properties. Inavea™ is the world’s first carbon-neutral prebiotic ingredient, supporting gut health while promoting sustainability.

Why we use it:

• Synergistic Prebiotic Effect – Clinically shown to balance gut flora at just 5 g/day, thanks to complementary fermentation patterns across the whole colon.
• Supports Digestive Comfort – Promotes beneficial bacteria like Bifidobacteria, Akkermansia, and Christensenellaceae while reducing opportunistic strains linked to discomfort.
• Boosts Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs) – Enhances the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) such as butyrate, acetate, and propionate. These are vital compounds made by your gut bacteria that fuel the cells of your gut lining, regulate metabolism, and help calm inflammation.
• Gentle & Well Tolerated – Certified FODMAP-friendly and suitable for sensitive digestion, making it ideal for people with IBS or food intolerances.
• Sustainable by Design – Harvested through projects that support African rural communities, prevent desertification, and preserve biodiversity.

The Science:

Studies on Inavea™ used the SHIME® model (Simulator of the Human Intestinal Microbial Ecosystem) — a gold-standard lab system that mimics the entire human digestive tract. This allows scientists to track how ingredients behave from the stomach through to the distal colon, where many key bacteria live.

Why it matters: most prebiotics ferment too quickly in the upper gut. SHIME® showed that Inavea™ Baobab & Acacia ferments gradually across the whole intestine, delivering a broader spectrum of benefits. At 5 g per day—the same dosage provided in The Science Of Gut Health formula—it produced equivalent prebiotic effects to 10 g of baobab or acacia alone(Prodigest, 2020), proving a true synergistic effect.

Results included increased beneficial bacteria, sustained short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) production, modulation of inflammatory markers, and ultimately, improvements in digestive comfort, microbiota balance, and metabolic support.

References:

• Prodigest (2020). SHIME® study: Prebiotic effects of Baobab & Acacia on microbiota composition, fermentation, and SCFA production. Nexira internal report.
• Nexira (2020). Inavea™ Baobab Acacia: Synergistic prebiotic effects at 5 g/day compared to 10 g of single ingredients. Technical brochure.

What it is:

A whole-fruit powder made from New Zealand green kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa var. Hayward), rich in natural fibres, polyphenols, prebiotics, and actinidin — a natural enzyme unique to kiwifruit that helps your body break down proteins.

Why we use it:

• Clinically proven – In human trials, Actazin® helped participants go more regularly (up to 160% more complete bowel movements), while also improving stool form and easing constipation symptoms without the bloating or discomfort seen in other laxatives.
• Supports protein digestion – Actinidin helps break down dairy, meat, and gluten proteins, reducing post-meal bloating and improving nutrient absorption.
• Gentle and natural – Provides bowel regularity and digestive comfort in a way that’s FODMAP-friendly, non-GMO, and free from added sugars or preservatives.

The Science:

Two clinical studies (Ansell et al., 2015; KGK Science Inc., 2020) showed that Actazin® improved bowel regularity, with participants reporting up to a 160% increase in complete spontaneous bowel movements compared to baseline. Importantly, these benefits were observed at a daily dose of 600 mg—the same amount included in The Science Of Gut Health formula.

Additional improvements were seen in stool consistency, gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as bloating or irregularity, and overall digestive comfort, enhancing everyday quality of life.

References:

• Ansell, J., et al. (2015). Kiwifruit-derived supplements increase stool frequency in healthy adults: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Nutrition Research, 35(5), 401–408.
• KGK Science Inc. (2020). Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on the effects of Actazin® in healthy participants with constipation. (Unpublished data).

What it is:

A skinless, seedless, cold-processed powder made from whole New Zealand gold kiwifruit, retaining its natural fibre, polyphenols, vitamins, and bioactive compounds. Its unique pectin structure makes it a powerful targeted prebiotic.

Why we use it:

• Feeds key gut bacteria – Clinically proven to increase Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, one of the most important anti-inflammatory species in the colon.
• Supports gut barrier integrity – F. prau produces butyrate, a short-chain fatty acid that strengthens the gut lining and reduces “leaky gut.”
• Relieves constipation & discomfort – Clinical trials show improvements in stool frequency, consistency, and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms like bloating, pain, and wind.
• Anti-inflammatory effects – By promoting F. prau and butyrate production, Livaux® helps calm gut inflammation linked to digestion, immunity, and mood.

The Science:

Two human clinical studies showed that Livaux® significantly increased the relative abundance of F. prausnitzii. At 2,400 mg daily, participants with functional constipation doubled their F. prau levels (Blatchford et al., 2017). A larger study confirmed these effects at just 600 mg daily—the same dosage included in The Science Of Gut Health formula—with 70% of participants showing a two-fold increase in F. prau (p = 0.0027). Across both studies, participants also reported up to a 48% reduction in gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and a 44% improvement in quality-of-life scores.

References:

• Blatchford, P., et al. (2017). Consumption of kiwifruit capsules increases Faecalibacterium prausnitzii abundance in functionally constipated individuals: a randomised controlled human trial. Journal of Nutritional Science, 6(e52), 1–10.
• Duysburgh, C., et al. (2019). A synbiotic concept containing spore-forming Bacillus strains and a prebiotic fiber blend consistently enhanced metabolic activity by modulation of the gut microbiome in vitro. International Journal of Pharmaceutics X, 100021.

What it is:

A clinically studied combination of four probiotic strains — Bifidobacterium animalis (BLa80), Weizmannia coagulans (BC99), Bifidobacterium longum (BL21), and Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (LRa05). Probiotics are live microorganisms, measured in CFU (colony-forming units), that support digestive health, immunity, and the gut–brain axis.

Why we use it:

• Bifidobacterium animalis (BLa80) - Known for its ability to improve regularity and support gut barrier integrity.
• Weizmannia coagulans (BC99) - A resilient, spore-forming probiotic that survives stomach acid to deliver benefits in the intestine.
• Bifidobacterium longum (BL21) - Supports digestive balance and plays a key role in the gut–brain axis.
• Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (LRa05) - One of the most extensively studied probiotic species for digestive and immune support.

The Science:

Our blend delivers 10 billion CFU per day — the same clinically studied dosage included in The Science Of Gut Health formula.

• Bifidobacterium animalis (BLa80) - Clinical studies on B. animalis strains show improved stool frequency and consistency, relief from gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort, and stronger gut barrier function — helping reduce symptoms linked to IBS and constipation.
• Weizmannia coagulans (BC99) - Human studies on BC99 show reductions in abdominal bloating, pain, and improved digestive comfort. It has also been linked to enhanced immune activity, including modulation of inflammatory responses.
• Bifidobacterium longum (BL21) - Research has shown B. longum supplementation helps improve nutrient absorption, modulate stress responses, and support mood and mental clarity. Clinical studies also link it to reduced GI symptoms and improvements in overall wellbeing.
• Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (LRa05) - Clinical trials with L. rhamnosus strains demonstrate benefits for maintaining a healthy gut lining, reducing diarrhoea and bloating, and supporting immune health. It has also been linked to neurotransmitter activity that influences mood and sleep.

References:

• Marteau, P. R., et al. (2002). Protection from gastrointestinal diseases with the use of probiotics. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 73(6), 430S–436S.
• Ishikawa, H., et al. (2003). Bifidobacterium animalis improves stool regularity and gut function in constipated patients. Journal of Gastroenterology, 38(6), 531–535.
• Sudha, M. R., et al. (2008). Probiotic effects of Bacillus coagulans (Weizmannia coagulans) on abdominal pain and bloating in IBS patients. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, 42(Suppl 2), S111–S115.
• Xiao, J. Z., et al. (2006). Bifidobacterium longum supplementation improves symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and modulates gut-brain signaling. Alimentary Pharmacology & Therapeutics, 24(4), 613–623.
• Messaoudi, M., et al. (2011). Assessment of psychotropic-like properties of a probiotic formulation (including L. rhamnosus) in healthy human volunteers. British Journal of Nutrition, 105(5), 755–764.
• Ouwehand, A. C., et al. (2002). Probiotic and other functional microbes: from markets to mechanisms. Current Opinion in Biotechnology, 13(5), 483–487.
• Guarner, F., & Malagelada, J. R. (2003). Gut flora in health and disease. The Lancet, 361(9356), 512–519.

What it is:

A blend of inactivated bacterial cells (postbiotics) from Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus (LRa05) and Bifidobacterium animalis (BLa80). Unlike probiotics, postbiotics don’t need to be alive to work — they deliver bioactive compounds and cell wall components that interact with the gut and immune system.

Why we use it:

• Stable & Reliable – Postbiotics remain active regardless of storage or digestion conditions, making their effects consistent.
• Supports Gut Barrier & Immunity – Helps strengthen tight junctions in the intestinal lining and modulates immune responses.
• Anti-Inflammatory Action – Shown to reduce pro-inflammatory markers while supporting mucosal immunity (IgA).
• Complements Probiotics – Works alongside live probiotics to stabilise the microbiome and reinforce gut resilience.

The Science:

Our formula provides 21.6 billion postbiotic cells per serve — the research aligned dosage shown to support gut barrier strength and immune balance, and exactly what you get in The Science Of Gut Health formula.

• Human studies suggest heat-inactivated L. rhamnosus cells can reduce gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and improve markers of immune health (Taverniti & Guglielmetti, 2011; Messaoudi et al., 2011).
• Inactivated Bifidobacterium animalis cells have been shown to interact with epithelial cells, supporting barrier function and reducing intestinal permeability (Aguilar-Toalá et al., 2018).
• A growing body of clinical research supports postbiotics as safe and well tolerated, with potential benefits for digestive comfort, immunity, and metabolic regulation (de Almada et al., 2016).

While the field is still emerging, postbiotics are recognised as a credible next-generation approach to microbiome health, with evidence from both human and preclinical studies supporting their benefits.

References:

• Taverniti, V., & Guglielmetti, S. (2011). The immunomodulatory properties of probiotic microorganisms beyond viability (ghost probiotics). Trends in Microbiology, 19(9), 491–500.
• Messaoudi, M., et al. (2011). Assessment of psychotropic-like properties of a probiotic formulation in healthy human volunteers. British Journal of Nutrition, 105(5), 755–764.
• Aguilar-Toalá, J. E., et al. (2018). Postbiotics: An evolving term within the functional foods field. Trends in Food Science & Technology, 75, 105–114.
• de Almada, C. N., et al. (2016). Paraprobiotics: Evidences on their ability to modify biological responses, inactivation methods and perspectives on their application in foods. Trends in Food Science & Technology, 58, 96–114.research-aligned

What it is:

L-Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the human body and a critical fuel source for cells in the intestinal lining. It plays a central role in maintaining gut barrier integrity, nutrient absorption, and immune resilience.

Why we use it:

• Gut Lining Support – Fuels enterocytes (gut lining cells) to repair and strengthen the intestinal barrier, reducing “leaky gut.”
• Immune Function – Supports the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), which houses over 70% of the immune system.
• Digestive Comfort – Helps calm gastrointestinal (GI) irritation and promotes regular function.
• Recovery & Resilience – Known to reduce gut permeability during physical stress (exercise, illness), aiding recovery and resilience.

The Science:

Our formula provides 3,000 mg (3 g) of L-Glutamine per day — the same dosage included in The Science Of Gut Health formula.

• L-Glutamine is the primary fuel source for enterocytes (gut lining cells), supporting the repair and maintenance of the intestinal barrier.
• Clinical trials at higher intakes (typically 15 g/day) have shown significant improvements in intestinal permeability and symptom severity in people with severe gut health conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), or critical illness (Zhou et al., 2019; Ziegler et al., 2000).
• While most research has used these higher doses in clinical populations, our 3 g/day dosage is designed for everyday gut support — providing a safe, effective level consistent with the body’s natural glutamine needs.
• Additional evidence shows that L-Glutamine helps modulate immune function, reduce gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort, and support nutrient absorption, particularly under physical or metabolic stress (Kim & Kim, 2017).

Together, this positions L-Glutamine as a cornerstone nutrient for gut lining integrity, digestive comfort, and immune resilience.

References:

• Zhou, Q., et al. (2019). Randomised controlled trial of oral glutamine supplementation for the reduction of intestinal permeability in diarrhea-predominant irritable bowel syndrome (IBS-D). Clinical Nutrition, 38(5), 2066–2072. (15 g/day; IBS patients)
• Ziegler, T. R., et al. (2000). Glutamine supplementation improves intestinal permeability and reduces infection rates in critically ill patients. Annals of Surgery, 231(6), 689–697. (Higher-dose; critically ill patients)
• Kim, M. H., & Kim, H. (2017). The roles of glutamine in the intestine and its implication in intestinal diseases. International Journal of Molecular Sciences, 18(5), 1051. (Review of mechanisms in gut barrier + immune function)

What it is:

Zinc is an essential trace mineral involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body. In the gut, zinc plays a critical role in maintaining the integrity of the intestinal barrier and supporting immune defence. We use zinc citrate, a highly bioavailable form that is gentle on digestion.

Why we use it:

• Gut Barrier Integrity – Zinc supports the tight junction proteins that keep the intestinal wall strong, reducing permeability (“leaky gut”).
• Immune Health – Zinc is vital for the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), which houses much of the immune system.
• Digestive Comfort – Helps reduce gastrointestinal (GI) inflammation and supports mucosal healing.
• Systemic Benefits – Also contributes to normal metabolism, skin health, and wound healing.

The Science:

Our formula provides 15 mg of zinc citrate per day — the maximum dosage permitted in supplements and the amount included in The Science Of Gut Health formula.

• Clinical trials investigating zinc and gut barrier integrity (e.g. Sturniolo et al., 2001) often used higher therapeutic doses in patients with Crohn’s disease or other severe gut disorders. These studies demonstrated that zinc supplementation could reduce intestinal permeability (“leaky gut”) and support mucosal healing.
• At lower, legally permitted levels (such as 15 mg/day), zinc is still essential for everyday gut and immune support. Research shows that even moderate supplementation can enhance immune defence, reduce infection risk, and support recovery in individuals with low zinc status (Prasad, 2008).
• Beyond digestive health, zinc is a critical cofactor in hundreds of enzymes that regulate inflammation, tissue repair, and systemic resilience (Maares & Haase, 2020).

In short: while higher doses have been tested in clinical populations with severe conditions, our 15 mg dose provides a safe, daily level that supports gut barrier function, immune resilience, and overall health.

References:

• Sturniolo, G. C., et al. (2001). Zinc supplementation tightens “leaky gut” in Crohn’s disease. Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, 7(2), 94–98.
• Prasad, A. S. (2008). Zinc in human health: effect of zinc on immune cells. Molecular Medicine, 14(5–6), 353–357.
• Maares, M., & Haase, H. (2020). Zinc and immunity: An essential interrelation. Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics, 611, 108636.