02/27/2026
THORNE Scientific Info Posts! If you like science, good health, and all things smart, this post is for YOU!!
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Yours in Good Health Today and Always,
Dr. C!
Welcome to the February 2026 FB version of Research Extracts, Thorne’s monthly research update for health professionals. Curated by our Medical team of NDs, RDs, PhDs, MS biology, MS chemistry, an LAc, and a Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics (CSSD), "The Extracts" summarizes the essence of cutting-edge studies on nutrient strategies, botanical supplements, and lifestyle approaches to good health.
In this issue
Summarized studies include: (1) curcumin for improving inflammation and blood sugar in MASLD and type 2 diabetes, (2) Panax ginseng for decreasing the effects of stress, (3) vitamin D improved fasting blood sugar and HbA1c in type 2 diabetes, and (4) a summary of potential long-term health benefits of taking a multi vitamin-mineral.
001
Curcumin Supplementation Improves Inflammatory, Metabolic, and Hepatic Outcomes in MASLD
Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), formerly known as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), is characterized by hepatic steatosis in the presence of at least one metabolic condition, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), or biomarker evidence of metabolic dysfunction. MASLD is currently the most prevalent chronic liver disease worldwide.
Curcumin, a bioactive polyphenol derived from Curcuma longa (turmeric), has well-established antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and has demonstrated potential therapeutic effects in MASLD through modulation of inflammation, oxidative stress, hepatic fat accumulation, and fibrosis.
This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of curcumin in reducing hepatic steatosis and liver stiffness in 78 adults with MASLD and T2DM on metformin therapy. Participants (mean age 57–60) were randomized to receive either curcumin (1,500 mg daily) or placebo for 12 months. Liver morphology and inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers were assessed at baseline and every three months throughout the study.
Compared with placebo, curcumin supplementation resulted in significant reductions in tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) at all follow-up time points (3, 6, 9, and 12 months). Significant decreases were also observed in interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and malondialdehyde, alongside significant increases in antioxidant enzyme activity, including glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase.
In addition, the curcumin group demonstrated significant improvements in fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), non-esterified fatty acids, total body fat, BMI, hepatic steatosis, and liver stiffness compared with placebo.
Overall, curcumin supplementation significantly improved metabolic parameters, systemic inflammation, oxidative stress, and hepatic outcomes in patients with T2DM and MASLD, supporting curcumin as a promising adjunctive therapy in MASLD management.
Note: Thorne offers a variety of formulations featuring Meriva®, a curcumin-phospholipid phytosome complex shown to have up to 29-times greater absorption than standard curcumin. Metabolic Health and S.A.T. are targeted formulas designed to support metabolic and liver health. For a high dose, standalone curcumin option, Curcumin Phytosome is an excellent choice.
Contributed by Sarah Daglis, ND, MS
Reference
Yaikwawong M, Jansarikit L, Jirawatnotai S, Chuengsamarn S. Curcumin for inflammation control in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease: a randomized controlled trial. Nutrients. 2025;17(12):1972. doi:10.3390/nu17121972
002
White Ginseng: Stress and Tension Relief by Default Mode Network Connectivity
Chronic stress and sustained tension are central contributors to poor mental well-being and can diminish quality of life by disrupting emotional balance and cognitive function. White ginseng (Panax ginseng Meyer) has a long history in traditional medicine for supporting resilience and emotional equilibrium, and emerging research has begun to explore its effects on the brain’s functional networks associated with stress regulation.
In a randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial, investigators evaluated use of daily white ginseng supplementation to reduce subjective stress and tension and influence resting-state brain connectivity. The study enrolled 86 adults who were experiencing stress-related symptoms and randomly assigned them to either white ginseng or a matched placebo. Both participants and researchers were unaware of group assignments throughout the 12-week intervention.
Stress and tension were assessed at baseline, mid-point, and study completion using a composite stress index derived from self-report measures alongside physiological indicators such as skin conductance response and heart rate variability. Additionally, resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) was used at the same intervals to evaluate changes in default mode network (DMN) connectivity; a core brain network implicated in self-referential thought and emotional regulation.
Study results showed that the white ginseng group had a significantly greater reduction in the composite stress index compared to the placebo group. Changes in DMN connectivity paralleled these improvements, with the ginseng group demonstrating a more pronounced decrease in DMN functional connectivity over time than the placebo group. The investigators also observed that the degree of DMN connectivity reduction was positively correlated with reductions in stress scores within the ginseng group, suggesting that ginseng’s benefits may arise, at least in part, through modulation of intrinsic brain networks associated with stress responsiveness. Overall, white ginseng was well tolerated, and adverse events occurred at similarly low rates in both groups.
These findings suggest that daily white ginseng supplementation may offer a promising approach for alleviating stress and tension in otherwise healthy adults, potentially through effects on brain connectivity patterns that underlie emotional regulation and stress perception.
Note: Thorne provides Ginseng Plus – a biomimetic indoor farmed red ginseng combined with lion’s mane and Greek mountain tea to support stress resilience. How do white and red ginseng differ? They are the same plant but just processed differently. White ginseng consists of the root of Panax ginseng that has been sun dried. Red ginseng is the product of steaming and then drying the root, which increases the ginsenoside content, making it more potent.
Contributed by Hemali Gunt, PhD
Reference
Shim Y, Lee Y-S, Kim Y, et al. Effects of white ginseng on reducing stress and tension by enhancing default mode network connectivity: a randomized, double-blinded placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Ginseng Res. 2025;49(6):725-733. doi:10.1016/j.jgr.2025.08.004
003
Vitamin D Supplementation Supports Healthy Metabolic Parameters in Obese Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble micronutrient typically known for its essential role in calcium balance and bone health. However, its biological influence extends far beyond the skeletal system. Acting more like a hormone than a vitamin, vitamin D interacts with receptors present in many tissues throughout the body, including muscle, liver, pancreas, and adipose tissue. Growing scientific interest has focused on vitamin D’s potential role in supporting healthy metabolic function and maintaining overall metabolic homeostasis in humans. For example, vitamin D deficiency is suspected to play some role in metabolic dysfunction, including insulin resistance and inflammation, often seen in obese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
A recent 12-week study explored the effects of vitamin D3 supplementation on anthropometric and metabolic parameters of obese individuals with T2DM treated with metformin monotherapy. The study involved 200 T2DM patients (mean age 58.6) who were assigned to either 4,000 IU/day of vitamin D3 or a control group (n=100 in each group).
Primary outcomes measured change in serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] concentration. Secondary outcomes measured fasting glucose, hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), blood pressure, serum calcium, and BMI.
After 12 weeks, serum 25(OH)D significantly increased in the supplementation group compared with controls (D +23.7 vs +1.3 ng/mL; p < 0.001). Additionally, both fasting glucose and HbA1c decreased significantly in the intervention group. No significant changes were observed in systolic or diastolic blood pressure, serum calcium, or BMI.
Note: Thorne offers vitamin D supplementation, as vitamin D3, in several strengths and delivery systems: D-1,000, D-5,000, D-10,000, Vitamin D Liquid, Vitamin D + K2 Liquid.
Contributed by Mario Roxas, ND
Reference
Hoffmann K, Bryl W, Bhongade B, et al. Vitamin D supplementation and selected metabolic parameters in patients with type 2 diabetes and obesity: a prospective observational study. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2026;16:1750040. doi: 10.3389/fendo.2025.1750040.
004
Rethinking Micronutrient Supplementation: Implications for Personalized Strategies
Multivitamin and mineral (MVM) supplementation is prevalent globally, with approximately 40% of adults in the United States reporting regular use. Although substantial evidence supports individual micronutrients for correcting nutritional gaps and supporting immune and overall health, the effects of MVM supplementation on mortality and age-related health outcomes remain inconsistent. Interest in preventive strategies to support healthspan and longevity continues to grow.
This review summarized 19 meta-analyses encompassing more than 5.5 million participants, including adults, pregnant women, and children exposed to maternal MVM supplementation. The included studies evaluated MVM supplementation across diverse populations, irrespective of disease status, and examined outcomes spanning a wide variety of clinical domains. Notably, there was considerable variability in how MVM supplementation was defined across studies, including ingredient composition, dosages, and duration of use.
Evidence from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) demonstrated that MVM supplementation improved overall cognition, episodic memory, and immediate recall in older or cognitively healthy adults, reduced psychological symptoms in otherwise healthy individuals, and lowered systolic blood pressure in at-risk populations. However, RCTs showed no significant benefit for all-cause mortality, COVID-19 outcomes, or visual acuity.
Observational studies identified links between MVM use and reduced risks of colorectal cancer, coronary heart disease, cataracts, and fragility hip fractures. No associations were observed for breast or prostate cancer, stroke, or overall mortality.
In pregnancy, MVM supplementation was associated with reduced risks of small-for-gestational-age births and pediatric cancers, but showed no effect on preterm birth, stillbirth, or low birth weight.
Overall, findings were inconsistent, with considerable variability in MVM effectiveness across demographic groups and health statuses. Collectively, the evidence emphasizes the shortcomings of generalized supplementation and reinforces the importance of personalization to optimize healthspan and longevity.
Note: Thorne offers a diverse range of multivitamin and mineral formulas designed to target a variety of individual health needs.
Contributed by Sarah Daglis, ND, MS
Reference
Wang W, Wazny VK, Mahadzir MDA, Maier AB. Multivitamin and mineral use: A rapid review of meta-analyses on health outcomes. Ageing Res Rev. 2026;114:102965. doi:10.1016/j.arr.2025.102965
