Bamboo Leaf Extract – a plant extract obtained from the leaves and underground stems of Bambusa Vulgaris. Bamboo has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for many centuries for its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. The silica in bamboo leaves promotes healthy hair, skin, and nails, wound repair, and strengthening of joints, muscles, and cartilage. It also contains high fiber that helps in maintaining a healthy heart. The health benefits of bamboo also include natural slimming, balanced cholesterol levels, and a strengthened immune system. However, these claims have yet to be validated by the FDA.

​

Baobab Fruit (Adansonia) – the fruit from a tree native to some areas of Africa, Arabia, Australia, and Madagascar. It is a good source of many essential vitamins and minerals. It is exceptionally high in Vitamins C, Vitamin B6, niacin, iron, and potassium. It may help balance blood sugar levels, aid in weight loss, reduce inflammation, and its high fiber can promote digestive health. However, these claims have yet to be validated by the FDA.

​

BCAA (Branch Chain Amino Acid) – 20 different amino acids make up the thousands of proteins in the human body. Nine of the 20 are considered essential amino acids, meaning your body cannot make them, and must be obtained through your diet. The three essential amino acids are called branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs): leucine, isoleucine, and valine. “Branched-chain” refers to the chemical structure of BCAAs, which are found in protein-rich foods such as eggs, meat, and dairy products. They are also a popular dietary supplement sold primarily in powder form. Studies show they may increase muscle growth, reduce soreness and fatigue, prevent muscle wasting, and support liver health. However, these claims have not been validated by the FDA.

​

Beet Root Extract – used to add functional benefits and natural coloring to the product. Lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol, lower blood sugar, reduction of inflammation, and better athletic performance are just some of the benefits of this folate-rich vegetable. However, additional research is needed, and the FDA must still validate these claims. One thing to note is that Beet Root Powder is rich in nitrates, and high nitrate levels in the body can cause possible long-term consequences.

​

Beta-Alanine – a non-essential amino acid produced naturally in the body and found in our diets in meat, fish, and poultry. It aids in making carnosine, a compound that plays a role in muscle endurance in high-intensity exercise. However, these claims have yet to be validated by the FDA. Its safety has not been established for children, people with diseases or conditions, pregnant or nursing women.

 

Beta Carotene – a pigment and antioxidant found in plants that give them their color. The name is derived from the Latin name for carrot. It gives yellow and orange fruits and vegetables their rich hues. It is used as a natural coloring agent in many foods and beverages. In the body, it converts into Vitamin A (retinol). We need Vitamin A for good vision and eye health, a robust immune system, and healthy skin and mucous membranes.

​

Betaine Anhydrous – a naturally occurring compound that plays several important physiological roles in the body. It can potentially help address various health concerns or diseases, such as depression, osteoarthritis, and congestive heart failure, and may even support liver function. However, these claims have yet to be validated by the FDA. We get it from wheat bran, quinoa, spinach, beets, lentils, and asparagus. A 2010 study at Connecticut University links betaine consumption to athletic performance. The study concluded that athletes who consumed 1.25 g of betaine daily experienced a 25% increase in strength and a 20% increase in muscle mass. Similarly, the study suggested that betaine may increase factors affecting muscle protein synthesis.

 

Beverage Base – a term that refers to the primary source of liquid used when mixed with concentrates or powders to form a beverage. The most common base is water. However, sparkling or carbonated water, milk, fruit, and plant-based juices may also be used. Consideration must be given to both the base and the ingredients being mixed in to create a beverage and the quantity of each to ensure that the functional goals, taste, and consistency achieve the desired outcome.

 

Beverage Form – a term that refers to the primary way a beverage is made and ingested. The most common is ready-to-drink, which means all components have been assembled in a liquid form that is complete and ready to consume. Ready-to-drink beverages may require refrigeration or the addition of stabilizers to extend their shelf life before consuming. Other forms include powders, tablets, and concentrates mixed with water or other "beverage bases" to form a beverage or supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, shots, or sprays that are ingested directly.

 

Bioflavonoids – complex compounds found primarily in citrus fruits, as well as in rose hips and black currants. Bioflavonoids have been used in alternative medicine as an antioxidant to treat osteoarthritis and other inflammatory conditions, support blood circulation and a healthy heart, and enhance Vitamin C's action. However, these claims have yet to be validated by the FDA. On rare occasions, some people may also experience an allergenic reaction, including hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat when consuming them. Get emergency help if you experience these side effects.

 

Biotin (Vitamin B7) – a water-soluble B vitamin found naturally in some foods (beef liver, eggs, salmon, avocado, pork, sweet potato, nuts, and seeds) and supplements. Biotin plays a vital role in assisting enzymes to break down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins in food. It also helps to regulate signals sent by cells and the activity of genes. Most people get enough biotin in their diet and do not require a supplement. An RDA for Biotin does not exist.

 

Black Pepper Extract – a rich in a plant compound called piperine, which test-tube studies have found to have potent antioxidant properties that may support your overall health. Benefits can include reducing inflammation, controlling blood sugar, and improving brain health. However, these claims have yet to be validated by the FDA. One word of caution - piperine supplements are concentrated forms of black pepper. They could change how quickly the liver breaks down medications and increase the chances of adverse effects from some medications.

 

Blood Sugar – the primary sugar found in your blood. It is your body's primary source of energy. It comes from the food you eat. Your body breaks down most of that food into glucose and releases it into your bloodstream. When your blood glucose goes up, it signals your pancreas to release insulin. Insulin is a hormone that helps glucose get into your cells to be used for energy. Diabetes is a disease in which your blood glucose levels are too high. When you have diabetes, your body does not make enough insulin, cannot use it as well as it should, or both. Too much glucose stays in your blood and does not reach your cells.

 

Body Mass Index (BMI) – a measure of body fat based on height and weight that applies to adult men and women. For a BMI table, please visit https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmi_tbl.htm.

 

Boron – helps your body metabolize critical vitamins and minerals, has a crucial role in bone health, and affects estrogen and testosterone levels. It is naturally found in leafy green vegetables like kale and spinach. It can also be found in grains, prunes, raisins, non-citrus fruits, and nuts.

 

Bromelain – a type of enzyme called a proteolytic enzyme. It is found in pineapple juice and the pineapple stem. It causes the body to make substances that fight pain and swelling. It also contains chemicals that interfere with tumor cells and slow blood clotting. Some people use it for muscle soreness, pain, burns, kidney stones, and many other conditions, but no good scientific evidence supports these uses. People with other allergies might also be allergic to bromelain. Use cautiously if you are allergic to pineapple, latex, ragweed, Echinacea, chrysanthemums, marigolds, daisies, wheat, celery, papain, carrot, fennel, cypress pollen, grass pollen, or other plants.