Clinical studies have demonstrated that Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) can influence neurobehavioral functions through oxidative and inflammatory mechanisms. This article discusses the newest study on PEA’s effect on Cognition.
April 17, 2024
Sponsored by Gencor Pacific
Written by Gencor.
Levagen+® is high-quality, cold water dispersible Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA). PEA is an endogenous endocannabinoid receptor agonist, a simple fatty acid amide, and a food component commonly isolated from soybeans, peanuts, and egg yolks. PEA is also known to occur naturally in mammal tissues. It is produced as a biological response and repair mechanism, potentiating its actions at cannabinoid CB1, CB2, and GPR55 receptors, as well as TRPV1 channels. Research on PEA has been conducted for more than 50 years, and over 350 papers are referenced in PubMed describing the physiological properties of this endogenous modulator and its pharmacological and therapeutical profile.1 Gencor’s Levagen®+ has fourteen published clinical studies demonstrating its potential impact on human health.2
Several pre-clinical studies have demonstrated that PEA can influence neurobehavioral functions through oxidative and inflammatory mechanisms. Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) is a nootropic substance that may help cognitive function. PEA may improve executive function, working memory, language deficits, and daily living activities. It may also help by modulating cortical oscillatory activity and GABAergic transmission. PEA increases the effects of other neurotransmitters and brain chemicals, including acetylcholine, which may enhance cognitive function, problem-solving abilities, and motivation.3 Another study found that PEA counteracts brain fog and improves depressive-like behavior in obese mice.4
The newest study, which was completed and published on PEA's influence on cognition, was carried out at the Centre for Nutraceuticals, University of Westminster. It aimed to examine, for the first time, the effect of PEA supplementation on markers of cognitive function in a healthy population currently enrolled in a higher education or university degree course.
The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled cross-over trial investigated the effects of a 6-week 700mg/day course of Levagen®+ versus placebo in male and female participants. It measured and compared serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, an essential protein required for maintaining normal neuronal function and associated with improving memory, learning, and cognitive function. Cognitive function parameters were assessed via a validated, gold-standard cognitive test pre- and post-assessment.
The results demonstrated a significant increase in serum BDNF levels following PEA supplementation compared with the placebo. Additionally, the Levagen+ group showed improvement in memory in the Cognition Function Assessments (CANTAB) test through better first success and fewer errors on the Paired Associates Learning test. This was the first study to report a direct beneficial effect of Levagen+® PEA supplementation on memory improvement as well as corresponding increases in circulating neurotrophic marker levels.5 Suggesting that Levagen+ holds promise as an innovative and practical intervention for cognitive health enhancement.
PEA is lipophilic (fat-loving) in nature. Therefore, it has challenges with absorption and limited format options (i.e., it is restricted to capsules and tablets). This limits brands’ and consumers’ ability to reap the full benefits of this unique ingredient. Levagen®+ is powered by LipiSperse® delivery technology developed by Pharmako Biotechnologies. This award-winning dispersion technology has been clinically shown to increase the bioavailability and functionality of PEA for food and beverage applications. Levagen®+ has been shown to be absorbed within 45 minutes, with x1.75 the absorption than standard PEA.6
Levagen® also has published clinical data demonstrating its ability to support sleep, mood, immune health, allergies, exercise recovery, inflammation, discomfort, headaches, migraines, skin, and more.2
Levagen+ has superior bioavailability to standard PEA.
Levagen+ is a safe alternative to CBD in countries and states around the world that have to navigate regulatory issues.
Levagen+ lends itself to convenient and exciting format options like RTD, Gummies, Effervescent, Dissolve Strips, Sachets, etc.
Levagen+ has already published 14 clinical studies, with more currently underway.
Levagen+ is non-GMO, gluten-free, allergen-free, Gencor self-affirmed GRAS
Levagen+ is Informed-Ingredient Certified by LGC to be WADA-banned substances free.
Levagen+ is award-winning.
Levagen+ is the only PEA that utilizes the patent LipiSperse® technology.
References:
J. M. Keppel Hesselink, et al., Palmitoylethanolamide: A Natural Body-Own Anti-Inflammatory Agent, Effective and Safe against Influenza and Common Cold, International Journal of Inflammation, 2013. https://doi.org/10.1155/2013/151028
Colizzi M,et al., Therapeutic effect of palmitoylethanolamide in cognitive decline: A systematic review and preliminary meta-analysis of preclinical and clinical evidence. Front Psychiatry. 2022. doi: 10.3389/fpsyt.2022.1038122. PMID: 36387000; PMCID: PMC9650099.
Lama A, Pirozzi C, Annunziata C, et al. Palmitoylethanolamide counteracts brain fog improving depressive-like behaviour in obese mice: Possible role of synaptic plasticity and neurogenesis. Br J Pharmacol. 2021. https://doi.org/10.1111/bph.15071.
Zariwala MG, et al., Formulated Palmitoylethanolamide Supplementation Improves Parameters of Cognitive Function and BDNF Levels in Young, Healthy Adults: A Randomised Cross-Over Trial. Nutrients. 2024. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16040489
Briskey D, et al., Increased Absorption of Palmitoylethanolamide Using a Novel Dispersion Technology System (LipiSperse®). J Nutraceuticals Food Sci 2020. DOI: 10.36648/nutraceuticals.5.2.
DISCLAIMER: This scientific article summarizes the key benefits demonstrated by the published, referenced clinical data. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Content provided by: Gencor
