5 reasons to use Bonolive® in your women’s health product

September 5th, 2023

Bonolive® is an extract based on olive polyphenols that contains a high amount of oleuropein, a potent phytonutrient found primarily in olive trees. Numerous studies have demonstrated the beneficial properties of Bonolive®, including mitigation of potential risks associated with menopause. In this blog, we will explore some of the scientific evidence supporting the health benefits of olive polyphenols and why you should use it in your women’s health product.

Bonolive®: Mediterranean support for women’s health

Bonolive® is a natural compound sourced from olive leaves. It’s standardized to contain high levels of olive polyphenols, specifically Oleuropein.

Developed by BioActor, its primary aim is to support women’s health during the post-menopausal phase (1). This period often introduces various health challenges, such as decreased bone density, joint discomfort, and a heightened risk of cardiovascular problems.

Numerous clinical studies consistently highlight the positive effects of supplementing with Bonolive® (1 , 2 , 3). These studies have revealed that Bonolive® plays a role in enhancing bone strength, reducing joint discomfort, balancing lipid profiles, and easing specific menopause-related symptoms.

Consequently, it contributes to lowering the risk of developing conditions like osteoporosis (brittle bones) and heart issues as time progresses.

Oleuropein: the hero compound of Bonolive®

Olive oil holds a pivotal role in the Mediterranean diet (4). The primary polyphenols in olive oil are Oleuropein and its metabolite hydroxytyrosol. These polyphenols have been extensively studied and recognized for their preventive benefits against various disorders.

Researchers have unraveled their mechanisms, showing promise in reducing risks of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, postmenopausal osteoporosis, and other health issues.

Bonolive® is standardized to contain Oleuropein. Because of this, Bonolive® is a perfect match for adding to dietary supplements and functional beverages made to support women’s health during menopause.

5 reasons to use Bonolive® in your women’s health product

1. Bonolive® improves bone health and reduces joint discomfort

Bonolive® has demonstrated its positive influence on bone and joint health (1). An investigation centered on post-menopausal women with reduced bone mass unveiled a notable surge in a foundational protein that serves as the framework for generating new bone. Moreover, an improvement in bone mineral density was seen.

In a recent six-month study involving 124 participants aged 55 and above, the efficacy of Bonolive® came to light. It brought relief to joint discomfort linked to activities like walking, bending, and knee movement (2).

Consequently, a daily dosage of 250 mg of Bonolive® proves sufficient to deliver advantageous outcomes for both bone and joint well-being.

2. Bonolive® reduces menopause related symptoms

BioActor undertook a consumer study aimed at assessing the benefits of Bonolive® among post-menopausal women. This investigation unveiled the favorable influence of Bonolive® on alleviating menopause-related symptoms in this demographic.

The study focused on women who had already gone through menopause, aiming to see how Bonolive® affected their reported symptoms. For 28 days, participants took Bonolive® regularly. After just 14 days, they felt better in terms of bloating, anxiety, mood swings, energy levels, and skin health. This improvement continued even after the full 28 days of using Bonolive®.

This reinforces the potential of Bonolive® in enhancing the well-being of post-menopausal women.

3. Bonolive® has favorable effects on lipid control

Clinical research has shown the favorable impacts of Bonolive® in managing the blood lipid profile among post-menopausal women (1). Notably, supplementation with 250mg of Bonolive® over a 12-month period led to significant improvements. Specifically, a significant reduction in LDL-cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides was observed.

4. Bonolive® has a superior bioavailability

Another study aimed to assess the bioavailability of Bonolive®. Interestingly, a more substantial increase in the levels of metabolites in the blood of post-menopausal women was observed compared to women who hadn’t gone through menopause yet. This suggests that post-menopausal women experienced higher absorption of Bonolive®.

Additionally, the study revealed that Bonolive® possesses antioxidant effects, as evidenced by its ability to reduce levels of a substance called MDA, which is a marker of oxidative stress.

5. Bonolive® is a sustainable solution

Olive trees hold the distinction of being among the oldest cultivated trees globally. However, the surge in olive oil production has taken a toll on the environment (5).

The primary waste generated during olive growth is the pruned leaves of the olive trees. Yet, these leaves contain valuable compounds of which oleuropein is one. This is why Bonolive® is made from the freshly cut olive leaves, meaning it is a clean, sustainable and natural ingredient for a women’s health product.

Bonolive®: A key ingredient for women’s health

Studies have found that Bonolive® can help women stay healthy after menopause. Using Bonolive® as an olive polyphenol extract can bring big benefits to women’s health products. Bonolive® can be used in many different products and has lots of advantages. It’s a great ingredient to promote a healthier lifestyle and improve women’s well-being.

Curious to read about the clinical studies on Bonolive® in more detail? Download our white paper below!

From tree to health: uncovering the benefits of olives, olive leaf and olive oil

July 25th, 2023

Delve into the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet, centering on olives and extra virgin olive oil. Uncover the positive effects of oleuropein, particularly for women during and after menopause, providing natural support for overall well-being.

The Mediterranean diet has gained widespread recognition as one of the healthiest diets globally, known for its ability to prevent diseases like heart disease and cancer.

Key components of this diet include olives and extra virgin olive oil (EVOO), which are celebrated for their health benefits.

In this article, we will delve into the composition of olives and EVOO, exploring the various health benefits associated with their consumption. Moreover, we will focus on their potential advantages for women facing post-menopausal concerns, shedding light on the natural alternatives available to alleviate their symptoms.

Olives and extra virgin olive oil: Pillars of Mediterranean health

The Mediterranean diet revolves around plant-based foods, whole grains, nuts, herbs, and spices. It encourages moderate consumption of fish, seafood, and poultry, while red meat and sugar are consumed infrequently. The main source of added fat in this diet is EVOO, which stands out for its numerous health benefits (1).

Composition of extra virgin olive oil

EVOO is derived from freshly cold-pressed olives, the fruits of the olive tree (Olea europaea). This process ensures that the beneficial components of EVOO, known as biophenols, are preserved.

The primary fatty acids in EVOO are monounsaturates, particularly oleic acid, which constitutes 55-80% of the total fatty acid content. The remaining portion consists of small amounts of saturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Beyond the fatty acids, EVOO contains various minor components such as antioxidants, including carotenoids, α-tocopherol, and phenol compounds. Among these phenols, the main ones found in EVOO are hydroxytyrosol, tyrosol, and oleuropein. Oleuropein, in particular, is present in olives, olive leaves, and olive oil, making oleuropein a key player in the health benefits associated with these products.

Oleuropein: a compound from olives and olive leaf with remarkable health benefits

Oleuropein, a compound with remarkable health benefits, has been extensively studied for its potential in preventing various disorders. As an antioxidant, it effectively combats harmful compounds in the body, reducing the risk of heart problems, cancer, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s, and premenstrual syndrome, among others. Studies have demonstrated its ability to protect cells from oxidative damage, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and contributing to the prevention of inflammatory conditions (2, 3).

Furthermore, the cardiovascular benefits of oleuropein are noteworthy, as it supports heart health by reducing LDL (“bad”) cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure. These effects, in combination with its antioxidant properties, contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis.

Interestingly, while oleuropein is present in olive oil and olives, you might be surprised to learn that olive leaves contain even higher levels of this beneficial compound. This makes olive leaves a great source for obtaining oleuropein and reaping its healthful advantages (4).

Women’s health: how can it benefit from olives?

Postmenopausal women often experience symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, and mood swings. The global population of postmenopausal women has grown significantly, leading to increased research on natural alternatives to alleviate these symptoms (5).

Oleuropein’s ability to lower blood pressure may be beneficial for women with hypertension during menopause. High blood pressure is a common concern during this stage of life, and the consumption of EVOO as part of the Mediterranean diet could help manage this condition naturally (6).

Oleuropein’s antioxidant properties are also relevant to women’s health. Oxidative stress is a contributing factor to the development of various diseases, and antioxidants like oleuropein help counteract this stress, promoting overall well-being.

Recent studies have also shown that oleuropein has positive effects on bone health, which further enhances its impact on women’s health, especially during and after menopause.

Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by reduced bone density and an increased risk of fractures, is a significant concern for postmenopausal women due to hormonal changes and declining estrogen levels. The anti-inflammatory properties of oleuropein play a crucial role in reducing bone loss and inflammation, helping to maintain bone strength and integrity.

By including the Mediterranean diet with its oleuropein-rich olives and EVOO, women can potentially safeguard their bone health and mitigate the risks associated with osteoporosis, contributing to an overall improvement in their well-being during the post-menopausal stage.

Oleuropein and women’s health: the benefits of olives and olive leaf

The Mediterranean diet, which includes olives and extra virgin olive oil, offers many health benefits, thanks to oleuropein: a compound that helps prevent diseases and promotes overall well-being, especially in women post-menopause.

For those who may have limited olives or olive oil in their regular diet, supplements containing high levels of oleuropein might be beneficial. Bonolive®, an ingredient by BioActor, is high in its oleuropein content and has been extensively studied. To read more about these studies, download our white paper below.

Nourishing foods that may help relieve menopause symptoms

March 16th, 2023

During and after menopause many women experience uncomfortable side effects such as bloating, hot flashes, and night sweats. These physical symptoms can be accompanied by emotional changes. While hormonal therapy can help alleviate symptoms, it may also have side effects. Therefore, more attention is being given to changes in diet or the use of natural supplements. This article will explore how certain products like fish, olive leaf extract, yogurt, and flaxseed may be able to provide relief from menopause symptoms.

Foods to alleviate menopause symptoms

As women approach menopause a lot of changes occur. Their estrogen levels decrease, leading to various symptoms such as bloating, night sweats, anxiety, or depression.

Menopause can also increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and bone loss, which are commonly ignored. However, making some dietary changes can be an effective and easy way to alleviate these symptoms. In this article, we’ll discuss five foods that can help ease menopause symptoms.

1. Fish rich in n-3 PUFAs for menopause support

Fish is a great source of healthy and essential fatty acids, including omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n-3 PUFAs) that have protective effects and anti-inflammatory actions. These fatty acids are found in fatty fish like salmon and some algae species.

Research has shown that consuming fish or fish oil can reduce depression, anxiety (1), hot flashes, and sleeping problems (2) in menopausal women. In addition, fatty fish is rich in vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption and maintaining bone health.

If you don’t eat fish, you can still get the benefits of n-3 PUFAs by consuming foods rich in α-linoleic acid (ALA), which our bodies can convert into these beneficial fatty acids. ALA has been shown to improve skin hydration and smoothness and can be found in foods like flaxseeds, almonds, walnuts, and chia seeds (1), as well as soy products that we’ll discuss later.

2. Olive leaf extract for menopausal symptoms

Olives contain (poly)phenolic compounds that have many positive effects, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as anticancer properties (3).

Interestingly, olive leaves contain significantly higher concentrations of phenolic compounds compared to olives or olive oil (4). As a result, they may have even greater potential for exerting beneficial effects on health. In fact, research has already demonstrated that taking olive leaf extract daily can be an effective alternative treatment for reducing blood pressure in individuals with hypertension (5).

One of the key phenolic compounds found in olive leaf extract is oleuropein, which has been shown to have a significant impact on women’s health during post-menopause. Oleuropein has been proven to reduce cholesterol levels, lower the risk of bone loss, alleviate joint pain, and improve mobility (6,7).

3. Soy products

Soy products, including soy milk, soybeans, and tofu, are rich in isoflavones, which are plant-derived estrogens and selective modulators of estrogen receptors in the body. These properties make soy products a promising alternative to hormonal therapy.

Soybeans contain essential fatty acids, such as ALA (α-linoleic acid), that have anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, soy protein has been found to reduce bad cholesterol levels, which can lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases (8).

One of the isoflavones found in soybeans is genistein, which is structurally similar to female estrogen and can alleviate menopausal hot flashes. Another isoflavone, daidzein, can inhibit cell proliferation in the gastrointestinal tract, potentially reducing the risk of estrogen-sensitive cancers, such as ovary, prostate, and breast cancer (9).

4. Yogurt to support menopause

Yogurt is a nutrient-rich food that contains calcium and vitamin D, which are important ingredients to improve bone health during menopause. Bifidobacterium bifidum and Lactobacillus acidophilus, which are considered ‘good’ bacteria, are used to make yoghurt and they are also present in the final product, making yogurt a source of probiotics that can benefit gut health.

Research has shown that consuming extra probiotics in yogurt can help to reduce anxiety and stress levels, and improve overall quality of life compared to regular yogurt (10). However, regular yogurt also has similar long-term effects. Additionally, yogurt may have a role in appetite control, making it a helpful food for weight management (11).

Studies have suggested that a well-balanced diet that includes milk and dairy products, like yogurt, may also improve sleep quality (12).

How can foods help with menopause symptoms?

To summarize, consuming fish, soy products, whole grains, olive leaf extract, and yogurt can promote healthy cholesterol levels, maintain bone mass, reduce menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings, and help regulate appetite and blood sugar levels. If you’re experiencing menopausal symptoms, these natural products are worth considering.

Why is bone health important and how does it work? (functions, bone metabolism and influencing factors)

July 4th, 2022

Our bones play various key functions for our bodies, and it is therefore important to maintain their health. To do so, it is essential to understand how our bones work and what factors affect bone health. Bone metabolism is a lifelong occurring process where bone tissue is turned over from mature to new bone tissue. This process keeps your bones healthy and their health is influenced by several aspects, such as age, gender, family history and several risk factors such as tobacco use, physical inactivity and diet.

Bone health, menopause, and dietary supplements

Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation naturally occurring in females at an average age of 51 [1].

Importantly, menopause leads to a decrease in estrogen levels and consequently increases bone loss. Estrogen is a hormone responsible for menstruation and known to have protective effects on bone loss and reduce inflammation.

Bone tissue in women is generally thinner than in men, and bone density has been reported to markedly decrease after menopause (post-menopause). Women can lose up to 20% of their bone density in just 5-7 years due to these hormonal shifts and experience increased joint pain [2].

The rise in the use of dietary supplements, especially by post-menopausal women, who are at risk of bone loss, is growing tremendously as advances in research are made, and the benefits of multiple natural ingredients are proven [3].

How does bone metabolism work?

Bone metabolism, also known as bone remodelling, is a lifelong occurring process where bone tissue is turned over from mature to new bone tissue. Bone resorption is the process where mature bone tissue is removed by osteoclasts and ossification is the formation of new bone tissue executed by osteoblasts [4]. These processes are responsible for replacing and reshaping bone following injuries such as fractures, but also micro-damage occurring during normal activity.

In the early stages of life, nearly 100% of the skeleton is replaced, due to the bones needing to develop, lengthen and grow. While in adults, bone remodelling proceeds at about 10% yearly [5].

For as long as bone growth is greater than bone breakdown, adults are able to maintain healthy bones. Many living cells within bone originate from the same mesenchymal stem cell. These mesenchymal stem cells can differentiate into the various cell types present in bone, such as osteoblasts (bone-building cells), adipocytes (fat cells) and chondrocytes (cartilage) [6].

However, due to stress, inflammation and ageing, this differentiation shifts towards producing more fat cells and fewer osteoblasts, resulting in more brittle and fatty bones [7]. Usually, bone mass starts to decline at the age of 40 as bone loss overtakes the speed of bone growth [8].

Fortunately, there are factors at play that we have control over to mitigate this bone loss.

What are the factors influencing bone health?

Although both our genes and the environment influence bone health, there is only one we have control over. Our genes, for example, determine whether signalling errors occur and lead to birth defects, while the extrinsic factors, such as lifestyle and diet, are crucial for optimising and maintaining bone health. Bone loss, also referred to as osteoporosis, affects people of all different ages and backgrounds. However, other intrinsic factors that are out of our control include:

• Age: naturally as we grow older, our bone mass and strength decreases. This is mainly due to decreased osteoblast activity and an increase in osteoblast apoptosis, while inflammation increases [9,10].

• Gender: osteoporosis is four times more common in women than men [11].

• Body frame size: people with small body frames tend to have a higher risk of bone loss as they have less bone mass to draw from as they age.

• Family history: having a parent or sibling with osteoporosis puts you at greater risk..

Fortunately, however, we do have the ability to modify extrinsic factors such as physical activity, diet choices and lifestyle choices. Here is how they can disturb bone health:

• Tobacco use: smoking contributes to weak bones by disturbing the balance of bone turnover negatively.

• Physical inactivity: just like muscles, bones gets stronger by exercising them. Resistance exercise and weight-bearing exercise help with this.

• Alcohol use: alcohol interferes with the calcium balance and affects the production of hormones, linking chronic alcohol intake to an increase in bone fractures and falls.

• Diet: foods high in calcium, and vitamin D such as dairy products and green leafy vegetables should be consumed in sufficient quantities to support the maintenance of bone health [12]. Additionally, polyphenols such as oleuropein can help mitigate bone loss, especially with age, through their anti-oxidative effects reducing inflammation [13].

If you want to know more about the crucial nutrients for bone health, click here and read our article on the 8 best ingredients.

8 Ingredients proven to improve bone health during (post)menopause

June 13th, 2022

Bone health is crucial to maintain, particularly after menopause. Consumption of dietary supplements, especially in post-menopausal women is on the rise, as advances in research are made and proven benefits are elucidated. Here we mention some of the ingredients that have demonstrated the ability to support women during menopause – specifically for the loss and maintenance of bone mineral density! You will also learn about which foods contain these ingredients, how they are beneficial to bone health and their recommended daily intake.

Bone health, menopause, and dietary supplements

Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation naturally occurring in females at an average age of 51 [1].

Importantly, menopause leads to a decrease in estrogen levels and consequently increases bone loss. Estrogen is a hormone responsible for menstruation and known to have protective effects on bone loss and reduce inflammation.

Bone tissue in women is generally thinner than in men, and bone density has been reported to markedly decrease after menopause (post-menopause). Women can lose up to 20% of their bone density in just 5-7 years due to these hormonal shifts and experience increased joint pain [2].

The rise in the use of dietary supplements, especially by post-menopausal women, who are at risk of bone loss, is growing tremendously as advances in research are made, and the benefits of multiple natural ingredients are proven [3].

8 ingredients to sustain bone health in menopause.

Calcium & Vitamin D

Calcium is a critical component of bone architecture necessary for the deposition of bone minerals. Around 99% of calcium is stored in bones and teeth, making them strong and hard [4].

Vitamin D is vital for regulating intestinal calcium absorption and stimulating bone resorption to maintain serum calcium concentration [5]. There are, however, substances that can interfere with the body’s ability to use calcium, such as oxalate, protein, phytate, and caffeine.

Examples of foods rich in calcium include dairy, soybeans, and green leafy vegetables. While the predominant way of ascertaining vitamin D is through our own body’s synthesis stimulated by sufficient sunlight exposure on our skin. Thus, supplementation of vitamin D3, cholecalciferol, is advocated during autumn and winter due to limited sunlight availability, depending on geography.

Women under the age of 50 should consume a daily dosage of 1000mg of Calcium and 400-800IU Vitamin D, while women above the age of 50 should consume 1200mg of calcium and 800-1000IU of vitamin D daily [6].

Vitamin C, B9 and B12, K

Vitamin C is important in stimulating the differentiation of osteoblasts, cells that synthesize bone matrix and coordinate bone mineralization [7].

Antioxidant effects of vitamin C have also been reported to reduce bones from cell damage and may improve left ventricular diastolic function which menopausal women often experience a dramatic reduction in [8]. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, bell peppers, broccoli, and strawberries.

Vitamin B9 (folate) and B12 are major determinants of homocysteine levels. Thus, a deficiency in vitamin B9 and B12 leads to increased homocysteine levels, which have been associated with impaired bone health and osteoporosis, a condition concerning weak and brittle bones [9].

Vitamin B9 and B12 have also been reported to assist with reducing the severity and duration of hot flashes and other menopause symptoms [10]. Therefore, increasing folate and B12 levels through foods such as pulses, legumes, beans, brown rice and, you guessed it, leafy green vegetables, can improve bone health.

Moreover, vitamin K has been reported to assist with reducing hot flashes and other menopause symptoms [11].

The recommended daily amount for adult women according to the National Institutes of Health for vitamin C is 75mg; for vitamin B9 is 400mcg DFE; for vitamin B12 is 2.4mcg and ultimately for vitamin K is 90mcg [12].

Quercetin

Quercetin is the bioactive compound abundantly found in citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, and onions. Studies show that onions reduce bone loss due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant flavonoid, quercetin [13].

Quercetin inhibits the genesis and differentiation of osteoclasts, preserving bone mass and health. Bone mineral density in postmenopausal women has also been reported to improve when supplementing with onion juice [14].

Quercetin at a dose of 150 mg has been shown to improve bone-health metrics, which is around three servings of onion [15]. Note, quercetin is found in the pigment and outer layer of the onion, with red and yellow ones thus having higher concentrations.

Bonolive® (olive leaf extract 40% oleuropein)

Bonolive® is an ingredient derived from olive leaf and rich in the most abundant olive polyphenol, oleuropein, tailored to women to counteract bone loss risk associated with menopause.

Clinical research in post-menopausal women has demonstrated that 12 months of supplementation with 250mg of Bonolive® is able to increase osteocalcin levels by 32%, promote the activity of osteoblasts (the bone-building cells), and decrease osteoclast activity involved in the breakdown and resorption of bone [16,17]. Thus the clinical dosage of 250mg is recommended.

Moreover, after 12 months, the Bonolive® treatment group displayed a significant protection against bone loss, compared to the placebo group.

Additionally, chondrocytes, important for cartilage-building, are also increased while cartilage degeneration is inhibited through oleuropein. Further benefits can be ascribed to oleuropein’s anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Oleuropein can be found in olive oil and olive leaf, although in limited quantities and therefore, supplementation with a high-quality, standardized extract such as Bonolive® is a more convenient method of consuming this nutrient in adequate quantities.

Improve bone health during menopause

In conclusion, a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, together with the right supplementations may help ameliorate bone health during menopause and promote healthy ageing and active living.

Improving Bone Health During Menopause With Bonolive®

February 3rd, 2022

The menopause transition is a critical period for bone health in women. More than ever, to address this key health concern, consumers are shifting away from calcium-only products and seeking out more complex formulas with clinically-backed ingredients.
Bonolive® is a patented ingredient rich in olive polyphenols that offers the possibility of formulating innovative bone health solutions tailored to women to counteract bone loss risk associated with menopause.

Menopause transition and bone health

Healthy bones are needed to support our body, providing structure, allowing us to move and protect our organs. They also store essential minerals, such as calcium and phosphorus, and release them into the blood whenever needed.

Bone health depends on a dynamic equilibrium maintained between the constant production of the new bone matrix via osteoblasts – the cells responsible for bone synthesis – and the resorption of old bone by osteoclast activity– the cells responsible for bone breakdown.

There are a lot of symptoms related to menopause, but did you know that the menopause transition is the most critical period for bone health in women? That’s because the fine equilibrium between bone breakdown and synthesis is broken due to hormonal changes.

The onset of the rapid bone loss phase is due to the drastic drop in estrogen levels, which play an important role in maintaining bone strength. This can result in bone resorption exceeding bone formation, leading to thin, fragile bones subject to spontaneous fracture.

Rapid losses in bone mass and strength usually occur in the 3-year window since the date of the final menstrual period [1].

Decreased levels of estrogen cause osteoprotegerin levels to decline. Osteoprotegerin is a protein secreted by osteoblasts, which antagonises the process of bone breakdown mediated by osteoclasts.

Therefore, with the lowered estrogen levels associated with menopausal changes, osteoclast activity increases leading to decreased bone mass and, in many cases, osteoporosis. This results in reduced bone strength and increased risk of fractures.

Although it is essential to build strong and healthy bones during the early stages of our lives, there are also important factors to take care of during adulthood, particularly during menopause, such as sufficient physical activity, proper nutrition and supplementation.

Traditional bone health management

With the world population getting older, bone health issues are increasing. In postmenopausal women, the prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia is estimated to be almost 20% and 52%, respectively [2].

Bone health is indeed a key concern for this vulnerable group. This reflects that 25% of women who use dietary supplements are already consuming products to support their bones and there are different ingredients that can be consumed to support bone health.

Over the last decade, supplementation with calcium and vitamin D and exercise has been the most used measure for preventing bone loss during menopause.

It is known that a sufficient calcium intake contributes to an increased bone density and Vitamin D is crucial for bone health because it plays a crucial role in calcium absorption [3].

While this strategy has proven marginal improvements, consumers are becoming more demanding. In fact, the popularity of innovative, nutraceuticals with a clinical back-up addressing bone health is growing.

Scientific evidence has shown that bone physiology can be modulated by phenolic compounds found in olives.

These powerful antioxidant compounds can indeed stimulate markers involved in osteoblast proliferation, differentiation, and maturation, and ultimately lead to a counteracting effect against bone loss risk.

What is Bonolive® and how does it support healthy bones?

Bonolive® is a patented, olive-polyphenol-based ingredient researched and developed by BioActor, with demonstrated efficacy in increasing bone formation in postmenopausal women.

Bonolive® is standardised for highly bioavailable oleuropein, the powerful phytonutrient deemed responsible for the increase in the number and activity of osteoblasts observed during BioActor’s research.

The randomised, double-blind clinical trial demonstrated that an intake of 250mg/day of Bonolive® is sufficient to re-balance the bone turnover [4].

Additionally, after 12 months, a 32% increase in osteocalcin was observed in the treatment group, compared to a 6% decrease in the placebo group.

Osteocalcin is a key component for building new bone, as it forms the scaffold for new bone tissue and binds calcium within a rigid structure.

The increase in osteocalcin is also reflected by the DEXA scan results, which show that subjects taking Bonolive®, displayed protection of bone mineral density at the lumbar spine and a higher gain of bone mineral density at the femur neck, compared to those taking placebo.

Opportunities for new product development with Bonolive®

As consumers are shifting away from calcium-only products and seek out more complex formulas with clinically-backed ingredients, Bonolive® offers the possibility of developing innovative consumer products specifically crafted to help women support healthy bones during menopause.

For a synergistic effect, Bonolive® can be successfully combined with calcium, vitamin D and magnesium, as well as other vitamins, minerals and plant extracts.

This Mediterranean-inspired ingredient can be easily included in various dietary supplements, functional drinks and foods, with a daily dose of only 250mg.

Apart from innovative blends, further product development opportunities in this growing market lie in convenient formats like gummies and ready-to-drink beverages.