Aged Garlic Extract Boosts Immunity

GAINESVILLE, Fla.Aged garlic extract enhanced immune cell function and may have reduced the severity of colds and flu in a recent study from The University of Florida (Clin Nutr. 2012 Jan 24).

The randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study found Kyolic Aged Garlic Extract (AGE, from Wakunaga Nutritional Supplements) may reduce the duration of the symptoms associated with common colds or the flu by as much as 61 percent. In addition, cold and flu sufferers in the AGE group experienced a 21-percent reduction in number of symptoms and 58-percent fewer missed workdays due to their illness.

Researchers gave 120 healthy adults a daily dose of either 2.5g of AGE or a placebo. After 45 days, blood samples from each volunteer were analyzed, and after 90 days, a cold/flu questionnaire was administered. Compared to the placebo group, those taking the AGE supplement had a significant increase in the number of immune cells after 45 days. AGE appeared to enhance the function of two specific types of flu and cold-fighting immune cells: NK (natural killer) cells and gamma-delta T cells (a type of immune cell found in the intestinal tract).

Another reason for this uptick in immune function, noted the authors of the study, is the glutathione-boosting ability of the sulfur-containing antioxidant compounds naturally present in AGE. Studies suggest that glutathione enhances immune response by optimizing macrophage function while protecting disease-fighting cells, called lymphocytes, from oxidative damage and premature cell death.

In 2008, a study reported Kyolic® boosted blood flow and educed heart disease risk factors.

For more on he role do dietary supplements play in modulating the immune system, attend the SuppySide MarketPlace's education session, " Immune System" with speakers Steven French, managing partner, Natural Marketing Institute (NMI); and Heath McAllister, N.D., resident physician, Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine on Thursday, May 10, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., Javits Center, New York.