Our Science & Ingredients – Bibena®
Evidence-based formulas. Gentle by nature. Built on published research.
This page is for parents, health professionals, and curious readers who want to see the science behind our ingredients. It explains why we chose each active, what the studies show, and which Bibena products use it.
The studies below inform our formulations, but they do not mean every person will experience the same results. Our products are dietary supplements, not medicines.
At a Glance – Ingredients → Benefits → Products
Attention, memory, mental energy
Iron levels, energy, focus
Cognitive aging, brain health
Immune “training”, resilience
Respiratory & seasonal support
Antioxidant + antimicrobial support
Gut health, nutrient absorption
Vitamin C, collagen & antioxidant
Stress resilience, cortisol balance
Calm focus, stress support
Relaxation, sleep quality support
Mood, relaxation, sleep support
Natural color, anti‑inflammatory
Natural color, antioxidant
Gentle, effective plaque removal
Cognitive Support & Mental Energy
Cognizin® Citicoline
- Supports – Attention, memory, mental energy
- Found in – Kids Smart, Mom RoseIron
Cognizin® is a clinically studied form of citicoline, a brain nutrient that helps support attention, memory, and mental energy in both kids and adults. In human trials, people taking citicoline performed better on tests of focus and working memory than those taking placebo.
What the science shows (selected studies)
Citicoline is an endogenous compound that supports neural cell membranes and neurotransmitter synthesis.
- Attention & focus in adolescents
In a randomized, double‑blind, placebo‑controlled trial (Journal of Attention Disorders, McGlade et al., 2019), 75 healthy adolescent males received either 250 mg, 500 mg Cognizin® citicoline, or placebo for 28 days. Compared with placebo, citicoline groups showed improved attention accuracy and reduced impulsivity on computerized tests. - Memory in older adults
A randomized, double‑blind study in healthy older adults (Wurtman et al., 1981) found that citicoline at 500 mg/day for 12 weeks improved episodic memory scores versus placebo, with no serious adverse effects reported.
- Working memory & cognition
A trial published in Nutrients (2020) reported that participants taking 500 mg/day citicoline for two weeks showed better vigilance and visual working memory and reduced oxidative stress markers.
- Safety in children
A pilot study in pediatric patients with attention difficulties (Journal of Child and Adolescent Psychopharmacology, 2024) reported citicoline as well‑tolerated in children ages 7–12, with a favorable safety profile.
Mechanism (how it works)
Citicoline provides choline and cytidine, which the body uses to make:
- Phosphatidylcholine – a major component of brain cell membranes
- Acetylcholine – a key neurotransmitter for learning and memory
- It also influences dopamine and norepinephrine, which are involved in attention and motivation.
We use Cognizin® in Kids Smart and Mom RoseIron at levels informed by this research to support daily cognitive function.
Blueberry Extract (Anthocyanins)
- Supports – Cognitive function, healthy brain aging
- Found in – Kids Smart (supporting extract)
Blueberries are rich in anthocyanins, plant compounds that can cross the blood‑brain barrier and support memory and mood. Clinical studies suggest regular anthocyanin intake is associated with better cognitive performance, especially in older adults.
What the science shows (selected studies)
- A systematic review in Antioxidants (Lorzadeh et al., 2025) examined anthocyanin trials and found consistent improvements in measures of verbal memory and some aspects of mood in adults consuming anthocyanin‑rich blueberry preparations compared with placebo.
- An fMRI study in older adults with mild cognitive impairment (Boespflug et al., 2016) showed that 16 weeks of blueberry supplementation led to enhanced brain activation in regions involved in working memory during cognitive tasks.
Mechanism (how it works)
Anthocyanins
- Cross the blood‑brain barrier
- Help reduce oxidative stress and neuroinflammation
- Support signaling pathways related to synaptic plasticity and memory
Iron & Nutritional Support
Iron Bisglycinate
- Supports – Healthy iron levels, energy, focus
- Found in – Growwell, Kids Smart, Mom RoseIron
Iron Bisglycinate is a form of iron attached to the amino acid glycine. It’s designed to be well absorbed and gentler on the stomach than many traditional iron salts, making it suitable for daily use in kids and adults.
What the science shows (selected studies)
- A classic absorption study in American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Bovell‑Benjamin et al., 2000) found that iron from ferrous bisglycinate was absorbed several times more efficiently than iron from ferrous sulfate in a whole‑meal context.
- Clinical work in women and children (e.g., Khan et al., 2023; Fischer et al., 2023) suggests that bisglycinate can raise hemoglobin and iron stores effectively, often with fewer gastrointestinal complaints compared to some other oral iron forms.
Mechanism (how it works)
The glycine “chelate” helps:
- Protect iron as it passes through the stomach
- Use amino acid transporters in the intestine for absorption
- Reduce direct irritation of the gut lining
In our kids and mom formulas, we use Bisglycinate to support iron status while prioritizing comfort.
Rosehip Extract
- Supports – Natural vitamin C, collagen, antioxidant defense
- Found in – Mom RoseIron
Rosehip is naturally rich in vitamin C and polyphenols. It supports collagen formation (for skin and connective tissue) and provides antioxidant support alongside iron.
What the science shows (selected studies)
- A randomized controlled trial (Phetcharat et al., 2015) in 34 adults compared standardized rosehip powder to another antioxidant over 8 weeks. The rosehip group showed improvements in skin elasticity and wrinkle appearance, likely via collagen support and antioxidant effects.
- Reviews (e.g., Negrean et al., 2024) highlight rosehip’s polyphenols and vitamin C as contributors to cardiometabolic and antioxidant benefits in various populations.
Mechanism (how it works)
Rosehip provides:
- Vitamin C, a co‑factor for enzymes that build and stabilize collagen
- Polyphenols that help neutralize free radicals and support vascular and skin health
In Mom RoseIron, rosehip works alongside vitamin C to support iron absorption and add a skin/antioxidant bonus.
Prebiotic FOS / Inulin
- Supports – Gut microbiota balance, digestive comfort
- Found in – Growwell, Kids Smart, Mom RoseIron (supporting amounts)
Inulin and related fructo‑oligosaccharides (FOS) are fibers that feed beneficial gut bacteria. They help support digestion and may indirectly influence immunity and nutrient absorption.
What the science shows (selected studies)
- Prebiotic trials (Gibson et al., 2010; Roberfroid et al., 2010) show that inulin‑type fructans can increase populations of Bifidobacteria and other beneficial species, which produce short‑chain fatty acids that nourish the gut lining.
Mechanism (how it works)
Prebiotics:
- Reach the colon undigested
- Serve as food for beneficial microbes
- Help support a healthier gut ecosystem
We include modest amounts of prebiotics to support digestion and make daily gummies easier on the stomach.
Immune & Wellness Support
Beta‑1,3/1,6‑Glucan
- Supports – Innate immune readiness, resilience
- Found in – Growwell
Yeast‑derived beta‑glucans are immune‑active fibers that “train” innate immune cells to respond more efficiently to challenges, without overstimulating the system.
What the science shows (selected studies)
- Reviews such as De Marco Castro et al. (2021) describe how β‑1,3/1,6‑glucans bind to receptors like dectin‑1 and CR3 on immune cells, leading to a more coordinated and effective response on later exposures (often described as “trained immunity”).
- In human trials, beta‑glucan supplementation has been associated with fewer or shorter episodes of upper respiratory symptoms in certain populations compared to placebo.
Mechanism (how it works)
Beta‑glucans:
- Interact with pattern‑recognition receptors on innate immune cells
- Prime these cells so they can respond more efficiently
- Influence downstream cytokine production and immune coordination
Black Elderberry Extract
- Supports – Seasonal & respiratory wellness
- Found in – Growwell
Black elderberry contains flavonoids and anthocyanins that have been studied for their role in supporting recovery from seasonal upper respiratory symptoms when taken early.
What the science shows (selected studies)
- Meta‑analyses (e.g., Hawkins et al., 2019) combining multiple randomized trials report that elderberry extract, taken within the first couple of days of symptom onset, was associated with shorter duration and reduced severity of upper respiratory symptoms compared to placebo.
- In vitro work has shown elderberry constituents can interfere with viral attachment and replication in cell models.
Mechanism (how it works)
Elderberry extracts:
- Provide polyphenols that may block viral attachment and entry in lab models
- Support a balanced cytokine response during immune activation
Propolis
- Supports – Antioxidant & antimicrobial defense
- Found in – Growwell
Propolis is a resin collected by bees from plants. It’s rich in polyphenols and has been studied for antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.
What the science shows (selected studies)
- Lab studies (e.g., Dantas Silva et al., 2017) show that certain propolis extracts can inhibit growth of both Gram‑positive and Gram‑negative bacteria at relatively low concentrations.
- Reviews and small clinical trials have explored propolis as a supportive agent for metabolic and inflammatory balance, with improvements in some markers when used alongside standard care.
Mechanism (how it works)
- Polyphenols and flavonoids that help neutralize free radicals
- Compounds that may interfere with bacterial adhesion and growth
- Influence downstream cytokine production and immune coordination
In Growwell, propolis is part of our “immune support stack” alongside vitamin C, zinc, elderberry, and beta‑glucan.
Stress, Calm & Sleep Support
L‑Theanine
- Supports: Calm focus, stress response
- Found in: Mom Relax
L‑Theanine is an amino acid from green tea that promotes a calm but alert state. It’s often used to help people feel more focused and less tense without drowsiness.
What the science shows (selected studies)
- Human studies (e.g., Nobre et al., 2008) show that L‑Theanine can increase alpha brain waves, which are associated with relaxed alertness, typically within about 30–40 minutes after ingestion.
- Some trials report modest reductions in subjective stress and improvements in certain attention measures when L‑Theanine is taken regularly.
Mechanism (how it works)
L‑Theanine:
- Modulates glutamate (excitatory) signaling
- Influences GABA, dopamine, and serotonin activity
- Supports a state of relaxed concentration
GABA (Gamma‑Aminobutyric Acid)
- Supports – Relaxation, sleep quality
- Found in – Mom Relax
GABA is the brain’s main calming neurotransmitter. Supplemental GABA is used in research and practice to help support relaxation and sleep quality.
What the science shows (selected studies)
- Some human trials (e.g., Abdou et al., 2006) report reductions in self‑rated stress and modest changes in physiological markers (like heart‑rate variability) after GABA supplementation compared with placebo.
- Combination products containing GABA and L‑Theanine have been associated with shorter time to fall asleep and improved subjective sleep quality in small clinical trials.
Mechanism (how it works)
GABA: - Acts on GABA receptors in the nervous system to reduce excitatory signaling
- Supports transition from “wired” to “ready for rest”
Ashwagandha Root Extract
- Supports: Stress resilience, cortisol balance
- Found in: Mom Relax
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb traditionally used to support stress resilience. Modern trials suggest standardized extracts can help reduce perceived stress and support healthier cortisol patterns over time.
What the science shows (selected studies)
- Meta‑analyses (e.g., Arumugam et al., 2024) combining multiple randomized controlled trials report that ashwagandha supplementation over several weeks was associated with reductions in perceived stress scores and serum cortisol in adults compared with placebo.
Mechanism (how it works)
Withanolides in ashwagandha:
- Modulate the HPA axis (hypothalamic‑pituitary‑adrenal system)
- Influence neurotransmitters related to mood and stress response
Chamomile & Lemon Balm
- Supports: Relaxation, mood, sleep onset
- Found in: Mom Relax
Chamomile and lemon balm have a long history in traditional use for calming the mind and supporting sleep. Modern research suggests standardized extracts can gently support mood and sleep quality.
What the science shows (selected studies)
- Trials with chamomile extracts have shown modest improvements in sleep quality scores and mild anxiety symptoms versus placebo.
- Lemon balm has been studied in combination formulas for its calming and mood‑supporting effects, particularly in mild stress and restlessness.
Mechanism (how it works)
- Key compounds like apigenin (chamomile) and rosmarinic acid (lemon balm) interact with GABAergic systems and other neurotransmitter pathways, contributing to a sense of calm and easier sleep onset.
Natural Colors & Functional Excipients
Curcumin (Turmeric Extract)
- Supports: Natural color, anti‑inflammatory potential
- Found in: Select kids formulations as a natural yellow colorant
Curcumin is the main active in turmeric. At the low levels used for color, its role is primarily visual, but the broader literature describes anti‑inflammatory and antioxidant actions via modulation of NF‑κB and related pathways.
Beetroot Red (Betalains)
- Supports: Natural color, antioxidant capacity
- Found in: Select kids formulations as a natural red/pink colorant
Beetroot extract provides betalain pigments that act as antioxidants. In nutritional studies, beetroot has also been associated with support for vascular function via nitric oxide pathways.
Device & Materials – BibenaNova™ Kids Sonic Toothbrush
DuPont™ Tynex® Bristles & Sonic Technology
- Supports: Effective plaque removal, gentle for kids
- Found in: BibenaNova™ Kids Sonic Toothbrush
Our kids’ sonic toothbrush uses soft DuPont™ Tynex® bristles and gentle sonic vibrations. The goal is to remove more plaque than a typical manual brush while staying comfortable for young mouths.
What the science shows (related studies)
- Independent toothbrush studies (e.g., Cochrane reviews such as Riley et al., 2015) have found that powered brushes—especially oscillating/sonic types—can remove more plaque and reduce gingivitis more effectively over time than manual brushes, when used correctly.
Design choices
- Soft, pediatric‑appropriate bristles
- Sonic vibration for improved cleaning vs. manual brushing
- Built‑in timer pulses to encourage 2‑minute brushing
Our Commitment to Safety & Transparency
One small gummy habit that supports immunity, growth, and focus—without the sugar guilt.
For scientific inquiries or to request additional references, please contact:
We formulate using clinically studied actives at levels appropriate for daily use in the intended age group.
All products are made in GMP‑certified, FDA‑registered facilities and are third‑party tested for identity, purity, and potency.
We continuously review emerging research and may update formulations as the science evolves.