Immune-stimulating AHCC is the premier ingredient in Swanson BioDefense NK+. AHCC®—active hexose correlated compound—is an extract obtained from a hybridization of mushrooms used in traditional Japanese healing, cultured in a liquid medium. It provides activated hemicellulose, glycoproteins, amino acids and oligosaccharides with a unique alpha-1,4 glucan structure. AHCC shows promise for maintaining immune health in the face of seasonal challenges. Higher doses of AHCC have been studied for proliferation and activation of immune cells (particularly the highly specialized dendritic cells) as well as liver function support.
Glucans are trending as immune system activators, and the alpha glucans in AHCC naturally complement the beta glucans found in mushrooms for cellular protection and total-body immune support. We feature a mushroom extract standardized to deliver a consistent 70% beta glucan content to promote both the immune system and gut microbiota, which further contributes to your body’s defenses.
Nutraceutical shiitake is an ancient supporter of the immune system as well as healthy aging and overall vitality. A natural source of potent antioxidants and protective beta glucans, shiitake also delivers beneficial polysaccharides such as immune health-stimulating lentinan, along with important nutrients like copper, selenium and niacin.
Fungal alpha and beta glucans such as those found in Swanson BioDefense NK+ may help modulate the immune responses through their influence on immune cells in the GI tract. This could trigger the activation of macrophages, neutrophils and natural killer (NK) cells for a robust immune response.