Nutrition
Strawberry and cranberry polyphenols may improve insulin sensitivity for people with pre-diabetes
Research shows promising improvements in blood sugar profiles for non-diabetic, insulin-resistant adults when given GlucoPhenol.

Researchers at the Institute of Nutrition and Functional Foods (INAF) at Laval University have found a potential new approach to help people with prediabetes stave off the progression of this chronic disease. In a study made available today in the British Journal of Nutrition, GlucoPhenol, a proprietary blend of cranberry and Orléans strawberry extracts, produced significant improvements in insulin sensitivity among non-diabetic, insulin-resistant adults.
Globally, 415 million adults are living with diabetes1 and these numbers are projected to grow to 592 million by 2035, affecting one in every ten adults. According to the most recent data from the American Diabetes Association, in the US alone, an estimated 29.1 million adults have diabetes, while another 86 million are classified as prediabetic.2
The research team at INAF, led by Hélène Jacques, PhD, undertook the study to determine the effects of polyphenols from strawberries and cranberries on insulin sensitivity, glucose tolerance and insulin secretion in free-living insulin-resistant men and women who are overweight or obese but otherwise healthy.
“Our data indicate that GlucoPhenol may improve insulin sensitivity and prevent an increase in compensatory insulin secretion, representing a promising approach to improving glucose management in subjects at risk for type 2 diabetes,” explained Jacques. “These results are particularly encouraging, as they indicate that polyphenols may delay or even halt the progression to type 2 diabetes.”
The findings suggest that the cranberry and strawberry polyphenols found in GlucoPhenol may increase both insulin signaling and the transport of glucose into skeletal muscle, thus improving insulin sensitivity. Larger and longer-term studies will be needed, along with controlled dose-response trials to determine the lower and upper range of activity of these polyphenols.
“This latest research represents another significant advancement resulting from our collaboration with INAF,” explained Barry Ritz, Chief Scientific Officer for Atrium Innovations. “We have already incorporated the learnings from this study into Atrium Innovations products, and are committed to continued research to fuel innovation that will improve health outcomes for patients.”
While berries such as strawberries and cranberries are often referred to as “superfoods” and have numerous health benefits, the bioavailability of bioactive polyphenols in whole foods have been shown to be relatively poor.3, 4 In the current study, however, the concentration of four active polyphenol compounds and metabolites from GlucoPhenol most likely responsible for the observed benefits were identified and measured in the blood of study participants. The GlucoPhenol used in the study consists of a proprietary blend of cranberry and Orléans strawberry extracts from North American farms and developed specifically by the study partners. This specific blend of polyphenols is now available exclusively in three products under Atrium Innovations’ Pure Encapsulations, Douglas Laboratories and Genestra brands.
This study is part of a multi-year research collaboration between INAF and Atrium Innovations, exploring the impact of lifestyle and nutritional interventions on cardiometabolic health. In addition to polyphenols, researchers have also explored clinical applications of fish oil and systemic enzymes and their role in improving cardiometabolic health outcomes.
The study included 41 healthy but insulin-resistant participants ranging in age from 40 to 70, each with a body mass index (BMI) > 25 kg/m2, in a parallel, double-blind, controlled and randomized 6-week clinical trial. The consumption of berries, wine, polyphenol supplements and all products containing berries or wine was forbidden throughout the entire study period. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by the hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic clamp, and a 2-h oral glucose tolerance test was performed at the beginning and at the end of the experimental period. Results showed that GlucoPhenol increased insulin sensitivity (M/I) by 14% (+0·9 ± 0·5 x103 mg·kg-1·min-1·pmol-1) whereas control decreased insulin sensitivity (M/I) by 7% (-0·5 ± 0·5 x103 mg·kg-1·min-1·pmol-1), a 21% differential effect between groups. This improvement in insulin sensitivity was both statistically (P = 0·03) and clinically significant.
Atrium Innovations contributed the GlucoPhenol and control products used in this study. The study was supported by the Consortium de recherches et innovations en bioprocédés industriels du Québec (CRIBIQ), Atrium Innovations Inc., and Nutra Canada Inc. (now member of Diana Food Inc.)
For more information, view the full study here.
- International Diabetes Federation. http://www.idf.org/about-diabetes/facts-figures
- American Diabetes Association. (December 2016) http://www.diabetes.org/diabetes-basics/statistics/
- Cardona F, Andrés-Lacueva C, Tulipani S et al, “Benefits of Polyphenols on Gut Microbiota and Implications in Human Health,” J Nutr Biochem 24 (2013), 1415–1422.
- Ziberna L, Fornazsaro S, Čvorović J et al, “Bioavailability of Flavonoids: The Role of Cell Membrane Transporters,” in Polyphenols in Human Health and Disease, eds. Ronald Ross Watson, Victor R. Preedy, Sherma Zibadi (Academic Press: San Diego, 2013): 489–511.
Nutrition
Protein-packed sweet treats
These days, sticking to your wellness goals doesn’t have to mean missing out on delicious, sweet treats.

Beach vacations, backyard barbecues and long road trips make summer a season of spontaneity. Often cited as memory-making moments, these unplanned adventures can also make it a challenge to stay on track with your health. These days, sticking to your wellness goals doesn’t have to mean missing out on delicious, sweet treats.
When summer throws you off your routine, reach for convenient sources of high-quality protein, like Premier Protein High Protein Shakes. With 30 grams of protein, 160 calories and 1 gram of sugar, you don’t have to choose between summer fun and nutrition. These summer shakes bring joy back to the health journey as easy and delicious grab-and-go solutions, putting a healthier, happier lifestyle within reach. Not to mention the shake’s 24 vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C and E, which help support a healthy immune system as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle.
The fan-favorite shakes are best enjoyed as part of a nourishing breakfast, afternoon snack, post-workout boost or as an ingredient in a protein-packed recipe. There’s something for every taste bud, with more than 12 flavors including fan-favorites Chocolate, Vanilla, Caramel and Cafe Latte. If you’re interested in trying summertime recipes that taste indulgent and pack a protein punch, consider these tasty treats.
When the sun is beating down and the only reprieve is an ice cold refreshment, let this twist on frosted lemonade be your escape from the heat. With fruity flavor and added protein, Frosted Peach Lemonade allows you to travel to a tropical island from the comfort of home.
From hot days to cool nights, Premier Protein delivers the perfect solution for the classic bonfire indulgence with Protein Marshmallow S’mores. Your new summer classic, this unexpected s’more hack lets you embrace a sticky treat without sacrificing your nutritional goals.
With nutrition that works for you, delicious recipes and nutrition tools help make the ride smoother and more enjoyable as a fun reminder the health journey doesn’t have to be daunting. With easy-to-understand nutritionals, Premier Protein High Protein Shakes deliver tasty fuel for whatever comes next, giving you the confidence to reach your goals and be the best version of yourself without missing summer’s special moments.
To find more information and protein-packed recipes that’ll help keep your summer health goals on track, visit PremierProtein.com.
Frosted Peach Lemonade
2 scoops Premier Protein Vanilla Milkshake 100% Whey Protein Powder
1 cup lemonade
1 cup frozen peach slices
In blender, blend protein powder, lemonade and frozen peach slices until smooth.
Protein Marshmallow S’mores
2 cups Premier Protein Vanilla High Protein Shake
5 tablespoons gelatin
3 scoops Premier Protein Vanilla Milkshake 100% Whey Protein Powder
3 graham crackers
3 chocolate bars
Add protein shake to small saucepan and layer gelatin on top. Let set 5-10 minutes (gelatin will start to “bloom”).
Over low heat, whisk mixture periodically until consistency thins.
Pour into mixing bowl and allow to cool 5-10 minutes until mixture is warm, not hot.
Add protein powder; whisk 10-20 minutes, or until light and fluffy. Mixture should not break and fall immediately when whisk is lifted.
Pour mixture into lined pan and allow to set in refrigerator.
Slice and serve alone or with graham crackers and chocolate bars.
Nutrition
Power your summer with 100% orange juice
Consider these unexpected ways Florida Orange Juice can help power your day.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool or hitting the trails for a family hike or bike ride, exposure to summer heat can leave you feeling dehydrated and fatigued.
Comprised of nearly 90% water and delivering essential electrolytes like potassium and magnesium, 100% orange juice can serve as a healthy complement to your hydration routine. These electrolytes are crucial in helping to maintain fluid balance and muscle function regardless of the time of year, but they’re especially important during the warmer summer months when you are exerting more.
Consider these unexpected ways Florida Orange Juice can help power your day.
Support Immunity
100% orange juice isn’t just a tasty drink; it’s also packed with essential nutrients that support your immune system. An 8-ounce glass of 100% orange juice is an excellent source of vitamin C, plus it provides key nutrients such as folate, potassium and thiamin, as well as vitamin D and calcium (in fortified juices), that help support the immune system all year long.
Add Healthy Flavor to Meals
Fat-free, cholesterol-free and sodium-free with no added sugar, 100% orange juice is a healthy addition to any diet, adding a burst of flavor to favorite dishes. Consider using Florida Orange Juice as part of the marinade in these Orange Juice Citrus Chicken Kebabs or as a base for salad dressings to create a perfect balance that will delight your taste buds.
Electrolyte and Hydration Support
With many kids participating in summer sports and other outdoor demands on families during the warmer months, it can be difficult to provide your family with healthy, hydrating beverages. However, an option like this On-the-Go Orange Juice Sports Drink helps to replenish carbohydrates and electrolytes during and after physical activity, such as running, biking, exercising or playing sports.
Find more nutritious and delicious recipes to keep your family energized during summer activities at FloridaJuice.com.
Orange Juice Citrus Chicken Kebabs
Recipe courtesy of Aaron Himrod on behalf of the Florida Department of Citrus
Servings: 8 (2 kebabs per serving)
1 large Florida Orange, zest only
1 lime, zest only
1/2 teaspoon ground thyme
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1/4 teaspoon granulated garlic
1 teaspoon salt
white pepper, to taste
1 cup Florida Orange Juice
1 cup lemon-lime soda
2 pounds chicken tenders
8 wooden skewers
To make marinade: In medium mixing bowl, combine orange zest; lime zest; thyme; oil; garlic; salt; white pepper, to taste; orange juice; and soda.
Add chicken and completely coat with marinade. Cover bowl and place in refrigerator at least 1 hour.
Soak wooden skewers in water 20-30 minutes.
To make kebabs: Remove chicken from fridge and lace through each skewer using weaving motion. Repeat for all chicken tenders and set aside.
When skewers are prepared, drizzle extra marinade over chicken.
Heat grill to medium. Place chicken on grill. Cover and cook 3 minutes per side, or until center of meat reaches internal temperature of 170 F.
Remove from grill and serve immediately, or cover with foil and serve later.
Tips: Cover kebabs with foil for at least 20 minutes after cooking to trap in flavor and juices.
Add vegetables to kebabs, if desired, to increase flavor.
On-the-Go Orange Juice Sports Drink
Recipe courtesy of the Florida Department of Citrus
Servings: 1
8 ounces Florida Orange Juice
8 ounces water
1 pinch salt
Mix orange juice and water.
Add pinch of salt.
Pour into small bottle or reusable pouch.
Nutrition
Fall for flavor: The new Maple Cloud Cream Collection is here to sweeten, only at Seattle’s Best Coffee
Bold, smooth, and lightly sweet maple flavor, these drinks are crafted for those craving a cozy twist to their usual coffee.
Seattle’s Best Coffee is introducing the new Maple Cloud Cream Collection, a limited-edition trio of espresso-based drinks topped with maple-infused foam. Bold, smooth, and lightly sweet maple flavor, these drinks are crafted for those craving a cozy twist to their usual coffee.
Available starting August 18, 2025, the Maple Cloud Cream Collection offers a limited-edition experience that captures fall-in-a-cup, whether you prefer your coffee hot or iced.
What Makes the Maple Cloud Collection Special?
- A Maple Moment in Every Blend – At the center of the collection is the Maple Cloud Cream — an airy foam blended with maple flavor. It gently tops each drink, adding a light texture that highlights the delightful notes of the coffee.
- Crafted for a Multi-Sensory Experience – From the soft foam crowning the iced coffee to the subtle sweetness that lingers, each drink strikes a balance between comfort and caffeine that’s ideal for slow mornings or cool afternoons.
- Three Signature Creations to Match Any Mood – Whether you like it bold, creamy or somewhere in between, there’s a Maple Cloud drink made just for you.
Meet the Maple Cloud Lineup:
- Iced Maple Americano – Classic espresso flavor paired with maple-infused cream for a lighter, smoother finish.
- Iced Maple Breve – Rich and creamy, this blend of half-and-half, maple foam, and espresso is an indulgent treat with a caffeinated kick.
- Iced Maple Latte – Smooth milk, espresso and a comforting maple twist in cloud cream for a satisfying finish.
All drinks are also available in hot — perfect for rainy-day cravings or cool evenings.
This collection goes beyond the usual iced coffee — it’s a maple experience made to uplift and comfort, one cup at a time.
The Maple Cloud Collection is now available for dine-in, take-out, drive-thru, or delivery via GrabFood and FoodPanda at all Seattle’s Best Coffee branches nationwide.
Don’t miss the season’s cloud like sip. Treat yourself to the cozy taste of maple and share your favorite drink with #SBCMapleCloud.
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