HEALTH

PITTSBURGH — GNC on Thursday announced new the launch of new delivery systems and certification advancements across GNC's Pro Performance AMP Concentrated Intelligent Release Series and the Pro Performance X.R. Series, along with three new AMP formulas. 

MADISON, Tenn. — Homeopathic analgesic manufacturer Vireo Systems on Thursday released a study finding that seniors over the age of 75 were six times more likely to suffer side effects associated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. 

According to the study, nearly 33 million people, including 13.8 million seniors over the age of 65, regularly use NSAIDs for treating pain and inflammation. Gastrointestinal issues, renal problems and cardiac complications are the top-three most-cited side effects.

MATTHEWS, N.C. — Harris Teeter on Thursday launched a donation card campaign to support JDRF, a charitable funder of research toward curing, treating and preventing Type 1 diabetes and its complications.

WINNEPEG, Manitoba — Manitoba Harvest Hemp Foods on Wednesday named John Durkin VP sales. Durkin will lead the sales team in expanding sales of Manitoba Harvest’s award-winning Hemp Hearts raw shelled hemp seeds, and the newly rebranded line up of hemp protein powders.   

“We are thrilled to have a seasoned professional like John join our dynamic team,” stated Mike Fata, Manitoba Harvest CEO. “John brings an abundance of experience and expertise that will boost Manitoba Harvest’s rapid growth.” 

WATSONVILLE, Calif. — Nordic Naturals and Lipid Technologies on Tuesday developed a partnership to ensure that practitioners have easy access to the Holman Omega-3 Blood Spot Test for their patients. The Holman Omega-3 Blood Spot Test delivers a fast, easy and accurate measurement of a person’s omega-3 levels, which can aid in making informed choices about diet and supplementation. 

CHICAGO — As part of its 10th anniversary celebration, RightSize Health and Nutrition has introduced three new smoothie formulas, new packaging and a new website loaded with smoothie recipes and weight-loss tips and advice.

LOS ANGELES — Music mogul Sean Combs and actor/producer Mark Wahlberg on Wednesday announced a joint venture with fitness and wellness water brand AQUAhydrate. Per the arrangement, Combs and Wahlberg will oversee business strategy along with CEO John Cochran, former president of Fiji Water.  

Together they will help drive the AQUAhydrate brand and be instrumental in helping secure retail partnerships for the water brand, such as their recently signed deals with Safeway, Kroger and GNC.

NEW YORK — The Electronic Retailing Self-Regulation Program on Monday recommended that Lunada Biomedical discontinue weight-loss and other claims made for Amberen, a dietary supplement marketed to menopausal women. ERSP found, however, the company could support claims related to hot flashes, irritability, sleeplessness and “low libido.”