URTIs are caused by an infection of the mucosal lining of the upper airway and include coughing, sneezing, stuffy or runny nose, fever and a scratchy or sore throat.
PEA is an endocannabinoid-like bioactive signalling lipid that is part of the N-acylethanolamine (NAE) family. In the case of URTIs, there is an increase in inflammatory cytokine production.
PEA has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects that impact the expression of cytokine released.
The double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled study, published in the journal Nutrients, investigated the effectiveness of Levagen+ on URTI incidence, duration and severity for 12 weeks.
Three hundred and ninety eight participants between 18 and 65 were allocated to the Levagen+ group or the placebo. The Levagen+ group consumed 300 mg twice daily, and the placebo group consumed 300 mg of maltodextrin twice daily.
All participants completed the SF-8 questionnaire to measure the health-related quality of life every 4 weeks. A total of 87 participants experienced at least one URTI during the study, with a total of 103 URTI episodes recorded.
The results showed that the total number of URTI episodes was significantly lower in the Levagen+ group when compared with the placebo group.
There was also a significant difference in the severity of scratchy throats and reported coughing between the two groups, demonstrating that Levagen+ is a safe and effective supplement for URTIs.
“We are thrilled with the outcomes of this study; along with a healthy diet and exercise, Levagen+ can be a strong ingredient to support immune health,” said R.V. Venkatesh, cofounder at Gencor.
“We have several published studies backing Levagen’s efficacy and will continue investigating this potent ingredient for improved health and well-being.”
Levagen+ is a bioavailable palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), a self-affirmed GRAS ingredient manufactured in cGMP facilities, and has been clinically tested to support joint health, sleep, recovery and immunity. Levagen+ is applicable for dietary supplements, food, beverages and cosmeceuticals.
