Drink concentrate for reduction of psychoemotional stress and maintaining cognitive stability

Abstract

FIELD: food industry.SUBSTANCE: intended for preventive nutrition of individuals experiencing increased psycho-emotional stress. A drink concentrate is proposed to reduce psycho-emotional stress and maintain cognitive stability, which is made on the basis of biologically active components in the form of amino acids L-theanine, taurine and glycine, vitamins of group B-B1, B6 and B12, magnesium citrate, plant extracts of lemon balm and rose hips, β-glucan, ascorbic and succinic acids, stevia sweetener and water, and is made in two phases by combining the aqueous and lipophilic phases and homogenizing the prepared components, while the amino acids L-theanine, taurine and glycine are used in microencapsulated form with a polysaccharide shell based on maltodextrin and sodium alginate and with B vitamins and magnesium citrate are introduced during the preparation of the aqueous phase, and plant extracts of lemon balm and rose hips and β-glucan – in the preparation of a lipophilic phase stabilized with plant emulsifiers, while the total content of biologically active components per 20 ml of concentrate is selected within the range: L-theanine – 100–200 mg, taurine – 400–600 mg, glycine – 600–1000 mg, magnesium citrate – 300–500 mg, vitamin B1 – 1.5–2.5 mg, vitamin B6 – 1.5–2.5 mg, vitamin B12 – 0.001–0.003 mg, lemon balm herbal extract – 200–400 mg, rosehip herbal extract – 200–300 mg, ascorbic acid – 80–120 mg, succinic acid – 100–200 mg, β-glucan – 0.1–0.5 wt.%, stevia sweetener – 10–30 mg. In this case, before introducing biologically active components, the water is subjected to ultrasonic treatment at a frequency of 20–40 kHz for 3–5 minutes.EFFECT: increasing the bioavailability and stability of active substances, prolonged physiological action and reducing the effects of psycho-emotional stress.2 cl, 3 ex

Description

[0001] The invention relates to the food and medical industries, in particular to the production of specialized preventative nutrition drinks intended to correct the effects of psycho-emotional stress, normalize neurovegetative balance and maintain cognitive stability in individuals exposed to stress.

[0002] Compositions of functional drinks containing B vitamins, magnesium, amino acids and plant extracts are known (RU 2521324 C1; RU 2717044 C1; US ​​7901710 B2; JP 5005879 B2).

[0003] The disadvantage of these solutions is the instability of the multi-component system, the loss of amino acid activity during storage, and the lack of a technological approach that ensures targeted prolonged release and confirmed synergistic action of neuroactive components.

[0004] The closest patent to the claimed invention in terms of its features is Russian Federation Patent No. 2521324 C1 (published June 27, 2014), which describes a functional drink for preventive nutrition containing amino acids, B vitamins, magnesium, plant extracts, and antioxidants. This known solution is aimed at correcting stress-induced conditions and enhancing the body's adaptive capacity. The disadvantages of this composition include the lack of mechanisms for the prolonged release of biologically active substances, low storage stability, and the absence of technological methods to ensure the synergistic interaction of neuroactive components. Furthermore, the known drink lacks the ability to phase separate and optimize the ratio of L-theanine, taurine, and glycine, nor does it include an adaptogenic trigger that enhances cognitive resilience and a stress-protective effect.

[0005] The technical problem solved by the proposed invention is to develop a drink concentrate for dietary preventive nutrition, which has increased biological stability and effectiveness in affecting the body during psycho-emotional stress, providing prolonged release and increased bioavailability of active substances, stability of the multicomponent system during storage, as well as a pronounced synergistic effect between neuroactive amino acids, cofactor vitamins and adaptogenic components.

[0006] The technical result of the proposed invention is:

[0007] • increasing the bioavailability and preservation of the activity of neuroactive amino acids (L-theanine, taurine and glycine) due to their microencapsulation in a polysaccharide shell;

[0008] • ensuring prolonged release of active substances in a physiologically optimal time range;

[0009] • increasing the stability of the drink during storage due to the implementation of a two-phase structure (aqueous and lipophilic phases), preventing the degradation of plant extracts and vitamins;

[0010] • achieving a synergistic effect of L-theanine, taurine and glycine with a ratio of these amino acids close to 1:3:6 within the stated ranges of their quantitative content, which provides a pronounced synergistic effect, manifested in a decrease in the level of reactive anxiety and an increase in cognitive stability;

[0011] • enhancing neurometabolic effects due to the cofactor interaction of B vitamins and magnesium, involved in the biosynthesis of serine from glycine;

[0012] • increasing the stress-protective and adaptive properties of the composition due to the introduction of an adaptogenic trigger - (3-glucan, which has an immunomodulatory effect.

[0013] The combination of these effects ensures the drink's comprehensive impact on the regulation of the body's neurohumoral and cognitive functions, helping to reduce the effects of psycho-emotional stress and maintain cognitive stability under prolonged stress.

[0014] Essence of the invention

[0015] The proposed invention relates to the field of specialized food products for preventive nutrition and is a drink concentrate intended to reduce psycho-emotional stress and maintain the body's cognitive stability.

[0016] The claimed drink concentrate is made on the basis of biologically active components in the form of amino acids L-theanine, taurine and glycine, B vitamins (B1, B6 and B 12 ), magnesium citrate, plant extracts of lemon balm and rose hips, β-glucan, ascorbic and succinic acids, stevia sweetener and water.

[0017] A distinctive feature of the invention is the use of technologically and functionally interconnected features that ensure increased stability and efficiency of the multicomponent system:

[0018] 1. The drink concentrate is produced in two phases by combining the aqueous and lipophilic phases, followed by homogenization of the prepared components. The amino acids L-theanine, taurine, and glycine are microencapsulated with a polysaccharide shell based on maltodextrin and sodium alginate. B vitamins and magnesium citrate are added during the preparation of the aqueous phase, in which the amino acid microcapsules are also dispersed. Melissa and rosehip plant extracts and β-glucan are added during the preparation of the lipophilic phase, stabilized with plant emulsifiers. Combining the aqueous and lipophilic phases, followed by homogenization, ensures a stable dispersion upon shaking before consumption and improves the preservation of the vitamins and phytonutrients during storage.

[0019] 2. Optimized amino acid ratio. Within the stated ranges of the quantitative content of the amino acids L-theanine, taurine, and glycine, a ratio of these components close to 1:3:6 is ensured. This ratio achieves a pronounced synergistic effect, manifested in the normalization of heart rate variability, a reduction in anxiety levels, and an increase in cognitive resilience.

[0020] 3. Metabolic cofactor synergism of vitamins and magnesium. B vitamins and magnesium are selected in a ratio that enhances the enzymatic reactions of glycine conversion in the metabolic cycle. This enhances the neurotransmitter and neurometabolic effects of the drink, speeding recovery from stress.

[0021] 4. Adaptogenic trigger. The formula contains 0.1-0.5% β-glucan, which acts as an adaptogenic trigger. This component enhances the drink's immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and stress-protective properties, promoting the body's resilience to prolonged physical and psycho-emotional stress.

[0022] 5. Additional technological feature. To increase the solubility of amino acids and their structural stability, the solvent (water) can be ultrasonicated at 20-40 kHz for 3-5 minutes before preparation, which ensures structuring of the aqueous phase and improves microcapsule dispersion.

[0023] The combination of the listed features provides a new technical solution that achieves a combination of high stability, prolonged action and a synergistic physiological effect aimed at normalizing psychophysiological parameters, reducing the level of stress-induced reactions and increasing cognitive resilience.

[0024] The achievement of the claimed technical result - increased bioavailability, prolonged release and stability of active substances while simultaneously enhancing the stress-protective and cognitive-modulating effects - is due to a combination of interconnected design, technological and compositional features of the invention.

[0025] The use of microencapsulated amino acids L-theanine, taurine and glycine with a polysaccharide shell based on maltodextrin and sodium alginate ensures prolonged release of active substances, protection from oxidation and hydrolysis during storage, and increased absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.

[0026] The two-phase structure of the concentrate, including an aqueous and lipophilic phase, prevents chemical interactions between antioxidants and phytocomponents, helps preserve the activity of vitamins and plant extracts, and increases the stability of the drink during storage.

[0027] The optimized ratio of the amino acids L-theanine: taurine: glycine, close to 1: 3: 6 within the stated ranges of their quantitative content, forms a synergistic effect, manifested in improved heart rate variability, reduced anxiety levels and increased cognitive resilience.

[0028] The cofactor interaction of B vitamins and magnesium activates enzymatic reactions of serine biosynthesis from glycine, enhances metabolic regulation of the central nervous system and increases the efficiency of neurotransmitter processes.

[0029] The introduction of the adaptogenic trigger - |3-glucan in an amount of 0.1-0.5 wt.% enhances the immunomodulatory and antioxidant effect of the composition, increasing overall stress resistance and physiological resistance of the body.

[0030] Preliminary ultrasonic treatment of the solvent at a frequency of 20-40 kHz promotes structuring of the aqueous phase, uniform distribution of microcapsules and additional stabilization of the product.

[0031] The joint implementation of the listed features forms a single technological and functional complex that ensures the achievement of the declared technical result, which cannot be achieved by using individual features in isolation.

[0032] The quantitative limits for the components of the declared beverage concentrate were established experimentally, taking into account their pharmacological activity, technological stability, and the organoleptic characteristics of the finished product. The selected ranges ensure the reproducibility of the technological process and the achievement of the stated technical result while adhering to safety standards and permissible levels of consumption of biologically active substances.

[0033] The lower limits of the ranges are determined based on the minimum concentrations at which the target biological activity is demonstrated without compromising the physicochemical stability and compatibility of the ingredients. The upper limits are established based on physiologically justified daily doses and sensory acceptability of the product, preventing bitterness, sedimentation, and reduced shelf stability.

[0034] The following ranges have been selected for the main active components:

[0035] - L-theanine - 100-200 mg;

[0036] - taurine - 400-600 mg;

[0037] - glycine - 600-1000 mg;

[0038] - magnesium citrate - 300-500 mg, maintaining electrolyte balance and neuromuscular conduction;

[0039] - B vitamins (B1- 1.5-2.5 mg; B6- 1.5-2.5 mg; B 12 - 0.001-0.003 mg), providing coenzyme activity and participation in the biosynthesis of serine from glycine;

[0040] - lemon balm extract - 200-400 mg, exhibiting sedative-adaptogenic properties;

[0041] - rosehip extract - 200-300 mg and ascorbic acid - 80-120 mg, forming a stable antioxidant complex;

[0042] - succinic acid - 100-200 mg, supporting energy metabolism and buffering properties of the solution;

[0043] - β-glucan - 0.1-0.5 wt.%, acting as an adaptogenic trigger;

[0044] - stevia sweetener - 10-30 mg, providing a balanced taste;

[0045] The specified ranges achieve an optimal ratio of L-theanine, taurine and glycine, providing a synergistic neuromodulatory effect without reducing cognitive activity.

[0046] The combination of the stated quantitative and qualitative properties of the composition ensures a comprehensive physiological effect—reducing the severity of stress-induced impairments, maintaining cognitive performance, and accelerating recovery after exercise. This result is not achieved by prior art solutions, including prototype RU 2521324 C1, which lacks the claimed combination of microencapsulated neuroactive amino acids with vitamin-mineral and phytonutrient modules in the specified dosage ranges.

[0047] The declared limits of components are reasonable and sufficient for reproducing the invention by a person skilled in the art, which confirms compliance with the criterion of sufficiency of disclosure within the meaning of paragraph 1 of Article 1375 of the Civil Code of the Russian Federation.

[0048] Clinical Trial Examples

[0049] Example 1. The effect of a beverage on neurovegetative regulation parameters in individuals with high levels of psychoemotional stress. The effectiveness of the claimed beverage concentrate was assessed in a prospective observational study conducted on volunteers experiencing regular psychoemotional and cognitive stress. The study included 60 participants aged 25 to 45 years, divided into two comparable groups: the main group (n=30) and the control group (n=30).

[0050] Participants in the main group received 50 ml of the drink concentrate diluted in 200 ml of water daily for 14 days, once in the morning. The control group received a placebo solution, identical in taste and color, but containing no active ingredients. All participants maintained their normal sleep, diet, and physical activity schedules.

[0051] Evaluation Methods

[0052] 1. Psychophysiological assessment - scale of reactive and personal anxiety (STAI), d2 attention test, fatigue scale (VAS-F).

[0053] 2. Autonomic regulation - analysis of heart rate variability (HRV) with calculation of SDNN, RMSSD and LF / HF indicators.

[0054] 3. Biochemical parameters - malondialdehyde (MDA) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, magnesium and vitamin B6 concentration in blood plasma.

[0055] 4. Safety and tolerability - recording of adverse reactions, measuring blood pressure and heart rate.

[0056] Results

[0057] After 14 days of using the drink, the participants in the main group noted:

[0058] - reduction in the level of reactive anxiety according to the STAI scale by an average of 25% (p<0.05) compared to the initial value and by 22% compared to the control;

[0059] - increase in the speed and accuracy of completing the cognitive test d2 by 18% (p<0.05);

[0060] - an increase in the integral index of heart rate variability (SDNN) by 16% and an increase in RMSSD by 14% (p<0.05), which reflects an improvement in neurovegetative balance;

[0061] - increase in SOD activity by 12% and decrease in MDA level by 15%, indicating increased antioxidant protection;

[0062] - increase in plasma magnesium content by 8% and vitamin B6 by 10% compared to baseline.

[0063] No adverse effects or signs of hyperstimulation were reported by any participant in the main group. Organoleptic evaluation of the drink showed good acceptability (80% of participants noted a neutral taste, 15% a slight herbal flavor, and 5% a pronounced rosehip extract flavor).

[0064] Example 2. Study of the effect of a beverage on the restoration of cognitive performance in operator specialists. The study included 40 individuals (male, 28-50 years old) employed in the operation of complex technical systems. Subjects consumed 50 ml of the beverage once daily for 21 days. Cognitive performance was assessed using computerized attention and reaction time tests (CPT, PVT). Emotional state was assessed using the STAI anxiety scale, and adaptive reserve was assessed using the HRV stress tolerance index.

[0065] The results showed statistically significant (p<0.05):

[0066] - increase in the number of correct answers in the CRT test by 12%;

[0067] - decrease reaction time in PVT by 10%;

[0068] - Improvement of stress resistance index (LF / HF) by 20%.

[0069] Blood biochemistry analysis revealed a 13% increase in superoxide dismutase activity and a 17% decrease in malondialdehyde levels, reflecting enhanced antioxidant protection. The effect persisted for 10 days after discontinuing the drink, confirming the prolonged action of the composition due to the microencapsulation of the active ingredients.

[0070] Example 3. Preventive use of a beverage under training stress in athletes. The study involved 30 athletes in strength and cycling disciplines (aged 20-35 years) undergoing intensive training camps. The main group (n=15) consumed 40 ml of the beverage twice daily (morning and afternoon), while the control group received a placebo. The following parameters were assessed before and after 10 days of use: subjective fatigue (Borg scale), heart rate variability, and plasma cortisol and magnesium levels.

[0071] Athletes who received the drink showed:

[0072] - decrease in cortisol levels by 19% (p<0.05);

[0073] - SDNN growth by 22%;

[0074] - improvement of subjective perception of recovery by 1.3 points on the Borg scale;

[0075] - normalization of magnesium levels in plasma (+7%).

[0076] The control group showed no significant changes. The results indicate a pronounced adaptogenic and stress-protective effect of the drink, confirming the effectiveness of β-glucan and the cofactor complex of B vitamins and magnesium.

[0077] All of the examples shown demonstrate reproducible improvements in psychophysiological and biochemical parameters, reflecting a reduction in the effects of psychoemotional stress and an increase in cognitive resilience. This effect is due to a combination of the invention's features—microencapsulated amino acids, a two-phase concentrate structure, an L-theanine, taurine, and glycine ratio close to 1:3:6 within the stated ranges of their quantitative content, the cofactor interaction of B vitamins and magnesium, and β-glucan. The results confirm the reproducibility of the claimed technical solution and its industrial applicability in the production of specialized beverages for preventive nutrition.

[0078] Industrial applicability

[0079] The claimed invention is industrially applicable, since it can be implemented using standard technological equipment of the food and pharmaceutical industries, which does not require special modernization of production lines.

[0080] The process of obtaining a beverage concentrate includes successive stages that are reproducible during serial production:

[0081] - preparation and filtration of water, if necessary subjected to ultrasonic treatment at a frequency of 20-40 kHz to structure the solvent;

[0082] - obtaining an aqueous phase with the dissolution of microencapsulated amino acids, vitamins and mineral salts at a temperature of 25-30°C with pH control of 6.5-7.0;

[0083] - obtaining a lipophilic phase including extracts of lemon balm, rose hips and β-glucan, stabilized by plant emulsifiers;

[0084] - combining phases, homogenization at 2000-3000 rpm until a stable dispersion is obtained;

[0085] - bottling the finished product into sealed containers made of dark glass or multilayer polymer with barrier properties;

[0086] - storage at a temperature of 4-8°C while maintaining the stability of active components for at least 6 months.

[0087] The technological process is easily scalable, ensuring stable physicochemical properties and maintaining the biological activity of the components within the stated shelf life. All ingredients are included in the list of substances approved for use in specialized food products in the Russian Federation and comply with the requirements of TP CU 021 / 2011 "On the Safety of Food Products" and TP CU 027 / 2012 "On the Safety of Certain Types of Specialized Food Products, Including Dietary Therapeutic and Dietary Preventive Nutrition." The invention can be implemented at existing facilities producing functional and preventive beverages using standard mixers, homogenizers, ultrasonic generators, and packaging equipment.Industrial reproducibility was confirmed by a 20-liter pilot batch, which yielded a product identical in physicochemical and organoleptic properties to the declared sample. The combination of technological features and equipment used ensures consistent quality, reproducible characteristics, and the stated technical result during mass production of the beverage concentrate.

Claims

1. A drink concentrate for reducing psycho-emotional stress and maintaining cognitive stability, characterized by the fact that it is made on the basis of biologically active components in the form of amino acids L-theanine, taurine and glycine, vitamins of group B - B1, B6 and B 12, magnesium citrate, plant extracts of lemon balm and rose hips, β-glucan, ascorbic and succinic acids, stevia sweetener and water, and is made in a two-phase manner by combining the aqueous and lipophilic phases and homogenizing the prepared components, while the amino acids L-theanine, taurine and glycine are used in microencapsulated form with a polysaccharide shell based on maltodextrin and sodium alginate and with B vitamins and magnesium citrate are introduced during the preparation of the aqueous phase, and plant extracts of lemon balm and rose hips and β-glucan - during the preparation of the lipophilic phase stabilized with plant emulsifiers, while the total content of biologically active components per 20 ml of concentrate is selected within the range: L-theanine - 100-200 mg, taurine - 400-600 mg, glycine - 600-1000 mg, magnesium citrate - 300-500 mg, vitamin B1 - 1.5-2.5 mg, vitamin B6 - 1.5-2.5 mg, vitamin B 12- 0.001-0.003 mg, lemon balm plant extract - 200-400 mg, rosehip plant extract - 200-300 mg, ascorbic acid - 80-120 mg, succinic acid - 100-200 mg, β-glucan - 0.1-0.5 wt.%, stevia sweetener - 10-30 mg.

2. A beverage concentrate according to paragraph 1, characterized in that the water is subjected to ultrasonic treatment at a frequency of 20-40 kHz for 3-5 minutes before the introduction of biologically active components.