PepsiCo Launches Five-Year Research on Women's Health

PepsiCo has announced a five-year research initiative to explore various health aspects concerning women, with a primary focus on hydration and the physiological factors influencing it. This effort is part of a broader strategy to address the underrepresentation of women in nutrition and health studies.

According to Tara Glasgow, PepsiCo's Chief Science Officer and Executive Vice President of Research and Development, women constitute more than half of the global population but remain significantly understudied in health research. The complexity of women's physiology, which changes throughout their menstrual cycles and life stages such as pregnancy and menopause, has contributed to this gap in scientific studies.

The research will delve into how body composition, body mass index, muscle mass, body fat, and hormonal variations affect hydration requirements in women. Glasgow highlighted that certain female hormones have diuretic or anti-diuretic properties, influencing the body's ability to retain water.

Initially, the research will focus on hydration, but findings could lead to innovations across PepsiCo's product range, extending beyond beverages. The Propel Electrolyte Enhanced Water & Sports Drinks will serve as the foundational product for this research program.

Earlier in the year, PepsiCo's Gatorade brand introduced the Body of Science initiative, a global program aimed at advancing knowledge in women's hydration and nutrition. This initiative is part of PepsiCo's ongoing commitment to enhance science-led innovation in the area of functional beverages.