The acronym AHCC stands for Active Hexose Correlated Compound, which is a registered trademark of Amino Up Co. Ltd. It is an extract of the root threads of shiitake (Letinula edodes) and other mushrooms fermented in rice bran. Let's explore how AHCC supplements can help your health and well being.
Top Health Benefits of AHCC Supplements
Immune Benefits
AHCC has been found to benefit the innate immune response. Innate immune cells are those that do not require a previous exposure to a pathogen in order to respond. These are cells such as natural killer (NK) cells, macrophages, monocytes, neutrophils, and mast cells.
Research has found that AHCC significantly increases natural killer (NK) cell activity in those with unhealthy cell growth. These NK cells are the immune cells responsible for directly attacking abnormal and virally infected cells in the body. In the same way, AHCC may be able to boost the immune response and actually prevent infections – particularly those caused by viruses. Some initial research has shown potential protection provided against the influenza (flu) and West Nile viruses, by a boosting of the innate immune response.
Healthy Cell Renewal
Interestingly, in addition to innate immune benefits, AHCC has also been shown to boost killer T cells and certain cytokines that promote a beneficial adaptive immune response in those with unhealthy cell growth. It has also been shown to improve healthy cell regeneration, most specifically in the liver. In fact, AHCC is widely used in Japan and China for these health issues, particularly to protect the immune system.
Diabetes Support
Some research has shown the diabetic patients can also benefit from supplementation of AHCC. It has been found to reduce blood sugar levels and help to promote blood sugar stabilization, which results in lower hemoglobin A1c levels (HbA1c). Further research is required in this area.
Shopping For Quality AHCC Supplements
This supplement can be found alone in tincture and powdered form, and there are a number of mushroom blends that contain AHCC. The recommended dose of AHCC has not yet been well established and recommended dosages range from 500mg to 3g daily, with lower doses being used for maintenance, while higher doses are used for more aggressive therapy.
