A microalgae extract marketed by Microphyt as ZenGut was associated with markers of improved gut health and mood in healthy adults, in a new clinical study published in Nutrients.

ZenGut is sourced from Tetradesmus obliquus Mi175.B1.a, a strain rich in bioactive compounds including alpha-linoleic acid (ALA), 2-phenylethylamine (PEA), lutein, alpha spinasterol, and phenylalanine, produced sustainably in France using Microphyt’s patented hydro-biomimetic technology.

The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study involved 56 adults between 18 and 55 with mild to moderate gastrointestinal distress, who received either a placebo or 250 mg per day of ZenGut for four weeks.

Participants self-reported their gastrointestinal symptoms via the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale, Bristol Stool Scale, and Shannon’s Index. Biomarkers of stress, gut permeability, and GI function were measured via stool, plasma, and saliva samples, with 16S rRNA sequencing and analyzing microbiota changes. Mental health was evaluated using questionnaires for mood, anxiety, and stress at baseline, and again at week 2 and week 4.

ZenGut reduced overall self-reported GI symptom scores by 23% from baseline, with significant improvements in constipation and indigestion, by the second week. ZenGut also increased the richness of microbial species or taxa and the evenness of gut microbial distribution, suggesting a prebiotic effect. Finally, supplementation was also linked to reduced self-reported feelings of distress, fear, irritability, hostility, nervousness, and upset. The supplement was linked to an average 36% decrease in plasma chromogranin A, a biomarker of stress, compared to a decrease of 3% in the placebo group.

“ZenGut is an innovative natural solution that delivers comprehensive benefits for both gut health and mental well-being,” said Jonathan Maury, clinical research program manager at Microphyt and co-author of the study. “This study reinforces the key role of the gut-brain axis in managing mental and digestive wellness and showcases the potential of microalgae ingredients to innovate in dietary supplements.”

“With clinically supported efficacy, a low 250 mg dose, and a broad range of health benefits, ZenGut presents exciting product innovation opportunities,” said Christel Lemaire, marketing manager of nutraceutical ingredients at Microphyt.