Does AHCC® Boost the Immune System?

For decades, people have been trying to boost their immune systems, which exist to keep us healthy. Our immune systems consist of a complex network of cells, tissues, and organs that work together to defend the body against harmful bacteria, viruses, and pathogens.

Many different things can negatively affect a person's immune system--stress, lack of sleep, poor diet, and a sedentary lifestyle can all lead to compromised immunity. In addition, some people suffer from conditions that may lead their bodies to be unable to fight off various pathogens. 

As a result, many people are constantly looking for ways to boost and strengthen their immune systems.

One of the ways people can boost their immune systems is through supplements. Supplements consist of various compounds that can help to supplement a person's diet and nutritional intake in order to ensure they get the essential nutrients they need to stay healthy. They do not require a prescription and can be bought over the counter at a variety of stores. 

When it comes to boosting the immune system, various supplements are available. Specifically, AHCC® has been shown in various studies to help boost the immune system.* It is a supplement that has been used in Eastern medicine for centuries and is finally becoming more popular in Western medicine.   

What is AHCC®?

AHCC® is derived from a fermented Basidiomycetes mushroom, typically called shiitake. On their own, mushrooms have been used by traditional medicine practitioners for years to help patients with a variety of ailments and to support many systems within the body. AHCC® is comprised of various minerals, polysaccharides, amino acids, and lipids. The active compound in AHCC® is acetylated alpha glucans.

AHCC® has multiple health benefits, with the most popular being its reputation for boosting the immune system.* One of the main reasons AHCC® is gaining popularity in Western medicine is because it may offer patients a way to support their immune systems in an affordable, easy to access way.

Why is AHCC® gaining popularity?

AHCC® is not a new supplement. It has been widely used in traditional Eastern medicine for generations. However, Western medicine practitioners have been reluctant to accept it until recently. Western medicine is famous for pushing prescription medication for any type of ailment. However, in recent years, overprescription of medication has become a serious problem. This is particularly apparent when it comes to prescription pain pills and the opioid epidemic. As a result, there has been a massive movement against drugs' overprescription and a move towards more natural compounds.

In addition to being made from a natural product, AHCC®is also gaining popularity because of the various clinical studies that showcase its immune boosting properties.* In addition, notable American supplement companies such as Quality of Life are now producing AHCC® supplement options at a price that makes this type of wellness product available. The ability to buy this supplement from a reputable company for a good price has added to its increased popularity.

Does AHCC® boost the immune system?

AHCC®'s most touted benefit is that it boosts the immune system.* When it comes to supplements, it can be difficult to determine whether or not the claims are real. However, with AHCC®, there have been multiple pre-clinical and clinical trials on animals and humans that show its immune-boosting properties.* 

During scientific research studies, AHCC® has been shown to improve overall immune function and health, enhance natural killer cell activity, increase dendritic cell function and T-cell proliferation, and improve immunomodulatory and antioxidant effects.* All of these are key processes for improving overall immune system activity.

What implications do AHCC®'s immune boosting properties have for helping people?

Now that it has been established that AHCC® has immune boosting properties,* the next step is understanding the implications of AHCC®'s use in the medical world. AHCC® works to improve overall immune system function.* However, it is important to note that while AHCC® may have positive effects on immune responses,* it does not mean the supplement offers a cure for any condition.

The immune system is very complex. If it is underactive (immunodeficiency), people are prone to more diseases and ailments. However, if it is overactive, the immune system may end up attacking the body's own healthy tissue (autoimmune disorders). 

Therefore, finding just the right balance for each person's immune system is key to living a healthy and good quality of life. 

Should you use AHCC®?

After hearing about the immune-boosting potential of AHCC® supplements, many people ask, "Should I be using AHCC® as part of my daily routine?" The answer is, "It depends." 

Any time you add something new into your daily routine, you should always check with your primary health physician. Some people may benefit from AHCC®, while it may have negative effects on others. For example, a person with an underactive immune system may benefit from AHCC® supplements added to their daily routine.* However, a person who suffers from an autoimmune disorder may be made worse by using AHCC®.

Each person's body is unique. As a result, each person may have a different reaction to AHCC®. Therefore, it is important that patients do their research so they understand what AHCC® is, how it can affect the body, and whether or not it may lead to improved health in their own bodies. 

In addition, if people think AHCC® supplements may be beneficial, they should advocate for their own health, and bring the topic up to their primary care physician, even if it is not brought up to them.

Lastly, there are a plethora of companies that produce AHCC®. Supplements are regulated differently than drugs in the FDA. This means the regulatory measures are not as extensive. Therefore, if a person and their primary care physician decide AHCC® should be added to their daily routine, it is important to find a high-quality product. Supplement companies like Quality of Life that have been around for a long time and have won awards for their products are the best route.

As is true with any supplement, whether or not a person should use the supplement depends on that person's individual situation. In some cases, AHCC® may be beneficial and can improve a person's quality of life.* Yet, on the other hand, some situations may be adversely indicated for AHCC® usage. Doing thorough research and consulting with a primary care physician can help people to make that determination.

If you're interested in exploring more about AHCC® and what it may be able to do for you, check out Quality of Life's many high-quality AHCC® supplements and see for yourself what a good supplement looks like!

Buy AHCC® - Kinoko Platinum

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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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Sources:

https://www.naturalmedicinejournal.com/journal/2011-01/active-hexose-correlated-compound-ahcc-and-immune-outcomes-humans-review