The Taichung Agricultural Research and Extension Station, part of the Ministry of Agriculture, has developed a new whole-grain beverage aimed at improving senior health. This red adlay drink uses the whole grain with the bran intact to maintain its full nutritional value. The researchers designed the process carefully to keep the grains fresh by refrigerating them and using minimal processing. These steps also help lower carbon emissions.
To ensure consistent quality, the institute established standardized production procedures. These cover everything from selecting raw materials to deciding the best formulation ratios. They have licensed this technology to industry partners and now collaborate to create versions of the drink that can stay fresh on shelves for longer periods.
Last year, the institute partnered with Taipei Veterans General Hospital to test the red adlay drink in a human trial. The trial included seniors with an average age of 74. Each participant consumed two servings of 290 milliliters daily for eight weeks. The results showed promising health benefits. Specifically, those with high blood sugar or cholesterol saw their blood sugar markers drop by up to 0.2%.
Moreover, researchers observed a rise in myostatin levels, a protein that helps preserve muscle mass in older adults. This suggests that the red adlay drink may help slow down muscle loss associated with aging.
Besides beverage development, the agency continues to promote the cultivation of adlay crops. They also focus on improving processing technologies to strengthen the domestic adlay industry.
In a separate initiative in November, the institute collaborated with Taichung Veterans General Hospital to launch a horticultural therapy program for people with schizophrenia. Over 12 weeks, participants engaged in weekly 1.5-hour sessions where they created flower and plant artwork. This activity aimed to improve motor skills, which often decline due to medication side effects.
After completing the program, 24 participants demonstrated significant improvements in hand coordination. This therapy shows promise in helping individuals with mental health challenges regain better motor function.Overall, the red adlay drink and related programs highlight the institute’s commitment to enhancing health through agricultural innovation.
