Page 54 - FoodFocusThailand No.240 April 2026

STRATEGIC R & D

2) Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF): Exercise them to dissolve gradually in response to pH changes in the
stimulates the production of BDNF, a protein that promotes gastrointestinal tract. One example, CaffXtend , has an average
®
neuronal growth and connectivity. It enhances learning and Tmax of 4.08 hours and can sustain energy and concentration
memory, and also helps regulate cortisol levels, enabling the for up to 12 hours without causing restlessness or a caffeine
body to cope with stress more effectively (Basso and Suzuki, crash. It can also be used as a ingredient in various product
2017). formats, including powders, gummies, bars, and gels (PLT Health
3) Endorphins and Endocannabinoids: Aerobic exercise Solutions, 2024).
stimulates the brain to release endorphins and anandamide 2) Multi-Ingredient Pre-Workout Supplements (MIPS)
(AEA), an endocannabinoid. These substances play an represent an important approach in the dietary supplement
important role in reducing pain and anxiety, while promoting industry. These products combine multiple bioactive compounds
relaxation and boosting energy levels. This phenomenon within a single formulation to simultaneously stimulate various
is commonly referred to as the “runner’s high,” a feeling of biological mechanisms. A study by Beyer et al. (2024) found that
euphoria associated with exercise (Fuss et al., 2015; Dietrich MIPS containing caffeine, beta-alanine, creatine, L-citrulline, beet
and Audiffren, 2011). root extract, taurine, red spinach extract, and betaine anhydrous
4) Serotonin: Regular physical activity helps increase significantly improved bench-press peak power and physiological
serotonin levels in the brain, which play an important role responsiveness. Currently, MIPS are being developed in various
in regulating mood, sleep, and energy. It also helps reduce forms, including capsules, chewable, and ready-to-drink (RTD)
depressive symptoms commonly observed in individuals with beverages, to enhance physical performance, alertness, and
sedentary lifestyles (Dietrich and McDaniel, 2004). muscular endurance. These products also support an active
In addition to physical activity, proper nutrition plays lifestyle and may help reduce the risk of NCDs (Antonio et al.,
a crucial role in supporting these biological mechanisms. 2024).
Several bioactive compounds supported by scientific evidence 3) Antioxidant-rich functional foods, such as fruits,
have been shown to promote the body’s transition toward an vegetables, whole grains, herbs, and bioactive compounds—
active lifestyle. These include caffeine, L-tyrosine, creatine, including polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamins C and E, sulforaphane,
vitamin D, and omega-3, as shown in Table 1. and EGCG—play a key role in activating antioxidant enzymes,
enhancing mitochondrial function, and reducing inflammation.
Product Innovations for an “Active Lifestyle” At the same time, exercise promotes metabolic adaptations,
Based on Scientific Evidence such as increased insulin sensitivity and mitochondrial biogenesis.
Advances in nutritional science and biotechnology have enabled As a result, the combination of antioxidant-rich food consumption
the development of food products specifically designed to Within and regular physical activity produces a synergistic effect in
the framework of functional foods, these products aim to meet promoting health and reducing the risk of NCDs (Tkaczenko
the needs of athletes, working professionals requiring high and Kurhaluk, 2025).
levels of concentration, and members of the general population 4) Probiotics combined with lifestyle modification exert
seeking to improve their quality of life. Examples include: synergistic effects in improving gut microbiota composition
1) Caffeine and cognitive performance in E-sports and metabolic health in individuals with obesity. Research
athletes: Wu et al. (2024) conducted a crossover trial among indicates that integrating proper nutrition, physical activity, stress
competitive E-sports athletes and found that consuming management, and probiotic supplementation is a promising
caffeine prior to performance testing significantly improved approach for reducing the risk of chronic diseases and enhancing
cognitive performance and reaction times. However, immediate- overall quality of life (Florêncio et al., 2025).
release (IR) caffeine has certain limitations, including a short 5) Alternative alcoholic beverages: An active lifestyle that
average Tmax of 0.83 hours and the risk of a “caffeine crash,” balances health maintenance with social interaction plays an
characterized by sudden fatigue and reduced focus. important role in improving quality of life. It helps reduce the risk
To address these limitations, sustained-release caffeine of chronic diseases while also promoting social well-being. In
using microencapsulated micro-bead delivery system has response to this trend, healthier alternative alcoholic beverages
been developed. This system coats caffeine particles, allowing have been developed, such as alcohol-free beer, probiotic-
enriched beer, and beers with high antioxidant content. When
consumed in moderation, these beverages may help reduce
the risk of certain chronic diseases (Habschied et al., 2020;
Hinojosa-Avila et al., 2024; Santos et al., 2024).
Promoting an active lifestyle is vital in the digital era, as
it helps counter sedentary behavior that disrupts the body’s
biochemical balance. The application of nutritional science
and biotechnology in product development offers a sustainable
approach to supporting sustained physical activity. This
approach not only enhances individual health but also helps
reduce the burden of chronic diseases and improve long-term
population health outcomes. For further information or if you
are interested in creative craft beverage production guided by
experts in biotechnology, please feel free to contact the Food
Innovation and Packaging Center (FIN), Faculty of Agro-Industry,
Chiang Mai University.

ภาพที่่� 2 ระบบนิิเวศของการดำำาเนิินิชีีวิตแบบ Active Lifestyle
Figure 2 The ecosystem of an active lifestyle
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