The Orange Pill Podcast

Episode 42: Beta-Alanine’s Emerging Role in Cognitive Health and Depression

This episode explores the surprising benefits of CarnoSyn® beta-alanine beyond sports. A new study reveals that a low, sustained-release dose improved cognitive function and reduced depression scores in older adults with below-average baseline scores—without side effects.
We break down the science behind brain carnosine, its link to BDNF and mood, and what this means for the healthy aging supplement market. Plus, a look at the regulatory pathway led by KGK Science and what’s next for SR CarnoSyn®.

Episode 41: The "Ensuring Safe and Toxic-Free Foods Act" and GRAS System Reform

In this episode, we unpack the newly introduced Ensuring Safe and Toxic-Free Foods Act of 2025, spearheaded by Senators Markey and Booker. This legislation aims to reform the FDA’s GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) system, which has long allowed food companies to self-approve potentially harmful additives without FDA oversight. We explore how this act seeks to phase out self-GRAS determinations, prohibit toxic substances, and demand full transparency in food safety evaluations. Tune in for a deep dive into what this could mean for consumers, regulators, and the future of food ingredient safety in America.

Episode 40: The Impact of Magnesium on Brain Health and Aging

Can magnesium slow brain aging?New research says yes. This episode breaks down emerging evidence on magnesium’s role in preserving brain volume, protecting against white matter lesions, and lowering dementia risk. We explore why post-menopausal women see the strongest benefits, how magnesium regulates neuroinflammation, and what you can do to increase intake through food and supplements.
Find out why magnesium is becoming a key focus in brain health, cognitive longevity, and healthy aging.
 

Episode 39: Tariff policies are reshaping the dietary supplement industry—are you prepared?

How do tariffs shape your supplements? In this episode, we break down the economic and regulatory impact of the 2025 Reciprocal Tariff System and Executive Order 14257 on the dietary supplement industry. Learn how key ingredients like CoQ10 and Vitamin B Complex secured tariff exemptions—saving the industry over $200 million in just over two months—and why supplement leaders are pushing back against pharmaceutical-level scrutiny. We also unpack the latest US-China trade truce and what it means for ingredient sourcing, supply chain resilience, and consumer access.
Tune in for insights pulled from recent policy reports and trade data, and find out how global trade decisions ripple through your daily wellness.

Episode 38: Crossing Barriers: The Omega-3 Breakthrough with Lysoveta

In this episode of the orange pill podcast, we spotlight a groundbreaking clinical trial that could redefine how  omega-3s are delivered to the brain and eyes. Aker BioMarine has partnered with KGK Science to launch the first-ever human clinical trial on Lysoveta, a next-gen omega-3 ingredient that uses lyso-phosphatidylcholine (LPC) to deliver EPA and DHA across the blood-brain and blood-retina barriers. Why does that matter? Because targeted delivery to the brain and eyes has long been the holy grail of omega-3 science.
We dive into the science behind MFSD2A, the transporter protein that makes this possible, and how Lysoveta could change the game for cognitive function, mood, and healthy aging. With 138 participants, an 18-month timeline, and NDI status already secured in the U.S., this study marks a major leap toward validating LPC-bound omega-3s as a new category in nutraceutical and pharmaceutical development.

FDA's Human Foods Program and New Dietary Ingredient (NDI) Guidance

In this episode of the Orange Pill Podcast, we unpack the FDA’s newly released 2025 Human Foods Programme guidance agenda and the persistent challenges stalling finalization of the long-awaited New Dietary Ingredient (NDI) guidance. From the implications of regulatory orders that demand a "10-for-1" rule, to open questions around bioidentical molecules and the fate of the self-affirmed GRAS pathway, we explore what’s at stake for dietary supplement stakeholders.
We also dive into how industry can play a role—through public comments, strategic feedback, and thoughtful engagement—to influence the next phase of supplement oversight in a changing regulatory landscape.

Episode 36: Class Action Lawsuit Against Amazon Regarding Misleading Supplement Labels

In this episode of the Orange Pill Podcast, we unpack the federal class action lawsuit alleging deceptive labeling practices on dietary supplements sold through one of the world’s largest online retailers. Plaintiffs claim the company systematically omits mandatory disclaimers and promotes unapproved health claims—leaving consumers under the false impression that the products are FDA-approved.
With the court denying a motion to dismiss, discovery will now proceed into not only the purchased supplements, but potentially 1.6 million unpurchased products as well. What does this mean for regulatory enforcement, consumer protection, and industry compliance? We break down the case's broader implications for structure-function claim oversight, advertising integrity, and the future of supplement sales in digital marketplaces.

Episode 35: Unreliable Melatonin Supplement Doses and Safety Concerns

A new FDA study reveals that many melatonin supplements—especially those marketed for children—contain wildly inaccurate doses, ranging from 0% to over 600% of what is listed on the label. In this episode, we unpack the science and regulatory implications of this inconsistency. Why is a powerful hormone treated like a harmless vitamin? What does this mean for consumer safety, especially among children? We explore the risks, expert recommendations, and what regulators and manufacturers need to do next.

Episode 34: Paraxanthine as a Caffeine Alternative

Episode 34 takes a closer look at paraxanthine (Px) — the main metabolite of caffeine — and why it might be the next big thing in clean, functional energy. With claims of fewer jitters, smoother focus, and a safer toxicity profile, Px is drawing attention from both scientists and the beverage industry.
This episode explores:
How paraxanthine compares to caffeine in terms of safety and effectiveness
Its nootropic and physical performance benefits
Why new coffee products are being formulated with Px instead of caffeine
Whether paraxanthine truly delivers a better energy experience
Is Px a smarter way to stay alert? Tune in to find out.

Episode 33: Psyllium Husk – "Nature’s Ozempic" and Beyond

Psyllium husk is taking the wellness world by storm, but is it just hype, or a true hero in your supplement stack?
In this episode, we break down what makes psyllium more than just a fiber. From its rising nickname “Nature’s Ozempic” to its documented benefits in digestion, heart health, and even colorectal cancer prevention, we look at where the science stands today.
We also touch on dosage safety, clinical findings, and what formulators and regulators need to keep in mind as psyllium’s popularity grows.
🧠 Insightful, evidence-based, and full of takeaways you can actually use.