MASSTIGE TIME

The rapidly changing food culture in modern Korea has become a major concern for stomach health. Traditionally, Korean food has been known for being spicy and high in sodium, making stomach health management essential. However, in recent years, the rise of highly stimulating foods like Buldak fried noodles and Maratang has made caring for your stomach even more critical.

Korea now has the highest incidence of stomach cancer in the world, with 20,000 to 30,000 new diagnoses each year. This rate is 10 times higher per 100,000 people than in the U.S. Considering that the U.S. is often seen as having a less healthy diet, this highlights how serious the situation is in Korea. The statistics show an increasing number of patients visiting hospitals for digestive diseases, with a predicted growth of 4% each year. In short, Korea faces an overwhelming risk of digestive diseases.

· Figures represent incidence cases per 100,000 people
· Based on individuals aged 50 and older
· Source: Gastroenterology, the official journal of the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) (Analysis of data from 2011-2015)

Taking care of your stomach health is simple. The health of your stomach is primarily influenced by your diet, so adopting a vegetarian, low-sodium diet can be an effective way to improve stomach health. However, sticking to this can be difficult, especially for those with busy schedules, high stress, and limited sleep. In such cases, taking health supplements can be a great way to manage your stomach health. With a wide variety of products available on the market, all you need to do is choose the one that’s right for you.

Among the various functional ingredients for stomach health, one that has recently gained attention is 'Honeysuckle Flower.' Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, honeysuckle flower has been traditionally used to treat colds and gastritis, as mentioned in classic texts like Bencao Gangmu (Compendium of Materia Medica) and Dongeuibogam (Principles and Practices of Eastern Medicine). In 2019, Honeysuckle Flower Extract (Greencera-F) was approved by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety as a dietary supplement specifically for improving stomach health. Studies have shown that the active compounds extracted from honeysuckle flower buds help protect the gastric mucosa.

Honeysuckle flower contains an active compound called secoxyloganin, which has been shown to protect the gastric mucosa from external stimuli and promote mucus secretion by activating PGE2 (Prostaglandin E2), a key factor in mucosal defense. In addition, it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, protecting stomach tissues from damage and promoting gastrointestinal motility to support stomach function. In a human panel test with Honeysuckle Flower Extract, which was extracted and concentrated with secoxyloganin, adults suffering from indigestion showed improvements in symptoms such as abdominal pain, heartburn, and acid reflux after 8 weeks of consumption.

What makes honeysuckle flower extract special compared to other ingredients? Honeysuckle flower extract is a KFDA-certified individual ingredient that has been proven effective when consumed at a daily dose of 250mg, as prescribed. While Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice) extract and honeysuckle flower extract both support stomach health, but their mechanisms of action and clinical effects differ. Honeysuckle improves pain in the upper abdomen and epigastric region and enhances stomach health through its antioxidant properties, while licorice works to improve indigestion and reduce inflammation caused by Helicobacter pylori. The extraction methods also differ: Licorice uses acetone as an extraction solvent, while honeysuckle is extracted with water, which reduces concerns about residual solvents. Additionally, honeysuckle has five patents related to preventing H. pylori infection and improving gastrointestinal motility, showcasing its highly advanced technological formulation.

Honeysuckle flower has been consumed for a long time, and no adverse effects have been found in toxicity tests and clinical evaluations. This indicates that it is safe to consume. However, it is recommended that pregnant women and infants consult with a healthcare professional before consumption.

If you're unsure about which products to choose for stomach health, start by checking the specific mechanisms of action and select an ingredient that best matches your symptoms. It's also best to choose products in liquid or powdered form, as they are more easily absorbed. Since the stomach is the first organ food reaches, faster absorption can be more beneficial when targeting the stomach with active compounds.

Maintaining a healthy stomach is not just about preventing digestive problems; it also contributes to enhancing your overall quality of life. To protect your stomach health, it's essential to maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, and, if necessary, consume health supplements for more effective management.