AHCC

AHCC

When it comes to health, we all understand the importance of our immune system. Active hexose correlated compound (AHCC) is an oligosaccharide extracted from mushrooms grown in rice bran. It was developed in Japan in 1989 and it has since been used to improve the immunity of over 100 000 patients. AHCC has shown promise for severe immunodeficiencies, for hypertension, to reduce inflammation, to improve the body's response to stress, in infections, for diabetics and for hepatitis.

AHCC and the Immune System

AHCC is remarkable because it has the ability to stimulate the immune system. Oral supplementation with AHCC increases the production by immune cells of at least two protein messengers. These proteins promote the production of macrophages, T cells and natural killer (NK) cells and improve their ability to destroy abnormal cells. Immune cells are important for health in general but are specifically involved with the control of infection and cancer.

AHCC in Combination with Chemotherapy

Studies using AHCC clearly demonstrated that AHCC safely increases the efficacy of conventional treatments while reducing the frequency of side effects. Patients taking AHCC with chemo or radiation saw their tumors shrink and their tumor markers decrease more than patients receiving conventional treatments alone. Furthermore, a weakened immune system is one of the most serious side effects of chemotherapy. AHCC helps to preserve immunity at a time when it is crucial to prevent the spread and growth of abnormal cells. It also reduces the toxicity and the side effects associated with chemotherapy. It alleviates hair loss and bone marrow suppression and prevents the elevation of liver enzymes. Patients taking AHCC reported less nausea and vomiting and AHCC improved their body weight and appetite. Unfortunately, at present, there are very few proven strategies to reduce the risk of tumor recurrence among survivors. Because of its effect on NK cells, AHCC supplementation may prove useful for those trying to improve their immune function in order to reduce their risk of recurrence. A prospective cohort study found that patients who had undergone resection of a liver tumor had a significantly longer no recurrence period and an increased overall survival rate when they took AHCC.

AHCC and Immunodeficiency

We have all heard of AIDS. The infection caused by the HIV virus leads to a deficient immune response because the virus slowly incapacitates the immune system. Researchers showed that HIV levels could remain suppressed without drugs if the immune system is functioning adequately. Through its influence on the immune system, AHCC may help preserve immunity in those whose defense system is slowly being infiltrated by viruses. Preliminary trials have given encouraging results.

AHCC and Infection

Infections are caused by the invasion and the multiplication of microorganisms in the body. We carry 500 to 1000 different species of bacteria throughout our body. Adequate immunity is therefore crucial in preventing infection. Several experiments confirmed AHCC's competence for the control of infections.

AHCC and the Liver

The liver is responsible for over 500 vital functions and can be injured in a multitude of ways. The liver breaks down harmful substances and excretes them in the blood or bile. An excess of toxins can damage the liver. Trials have demonstrated that AHCC protects the liver and improves hepatic function. AHCC was also shown effective for patients with chronic viral hepatitis. AHCC and Inflammation Inflammatory conditions are becoming more and more problematic. Arthritis has become the leading cause of disability among adults age 65 and older. It was reported that patients taking AHCC to prevent the recurrence of abnormal growths had significant improvements in rheumatoid arthritis. AHCC was also effective at diminishing inflammation in animal studies. It is thought that AHCC reduces inflammation by modulating the immune system and by improving fat metabolism.

Directions:

For general maintenance take 1 or 2 capsules daily. For more serious immune dysfunction take two capsules three times a day or as directed by a qualified health practitioner.

Medicinal ingredients:

AHCC Proprietary Blend 500mg

Non-medicinal ingredients:

Microcrystalline cellulose and silicon dioxide

AOR guarantees that no ingredients not listed on the label have been added to the product. Contains no wheat, gluten, corn, nuts, dairy, soy, eggs, fish or shellfish.