The flavonoid hesperidin and its aglycone are widely recognized for their functionality, wherein bioavailability is the key to ensuring their bio-efficacy for diverse health benefits. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetics of a inclusion complex of...

The utilisation and fermentation of highly cross-linked phosphate starches made from two different origins, potato (HXL-P) and tapioca (HXL-T) were investigated in rats and humans. HXL-P and HXL-T were highly resistant to digestion by carbohydrate enzymes and were also resistant to fermentation by...

Various health plans have been proposed in Japan in order to extend healthy life expectancy. We have accumulated scientific evidence related to lifestyle factors that are beneficial for preservation of bone health. First, we have screened nutrients and food components that affect bone metabolism...

The fruit of Prunus mume (ume, also known as Japanese apricot) has been used as a functional food in Japan since ancient times. We previously reported that ume stimulates the differentiation of preosteoblastic cells. Osteocalcin (OCN) is secreted by osteoblasts, and there is known association with...

The body's water balance is changed by food and beverage intake, metabolism, and excretion. In this study, we performed a cross-sectional study that investigated the changes of water intake and water output in healthy Japanese young and elderly people and handicapped adults. Water balance was...

In Japan, there is a long history of consumption of miso, a fermented soybean paste, which possesses beneficial effects on human health. However, the mechanism behind these effects is not fully understood. To clarify the effects of miso on immune cells, we evaluated its immunomodulatory activity in ...

Life span is increasing in developed countries as Japan, and an aging society is becoming a problem. In fact, healthy lifespan is not extended, and it is desired to extend it by functional food. Cacao (Theobroma cacao) contains various active components and is considered a preventative agent...

This paper presents the results of studies (using animal models) conducted on the effects of drinking alcoholic beverages which includes the famous Japanese "Sake" on the behaviour and health of drinkers whether they are occasional drinkers, habitual drinkers, and those who were forced or...

Pyrroloquinoline quinone (PQQ) is a coenzyme involved in the redox-cycling system. The supplemental use of PQQ has been examined based on its properties as an antioxidant and redox modulator. Although an animal study on deficiency of PQQ suggested that PQQ contributes to skin conditions, its...

Background: Kumaizasa (Sasa senanensis Rehder) is a representative natural plant growing in Hokkaido, Japan, and has a history of being used in herbal medicine and as a health food option. Nishihira et. al.(2019) confirmed in a clinical trial that the kumaizasa dry powder had the effect of...