Immune booster for flu treatment
Red ginseng and vitamin C increase immune cell activity and decrease lung inflammation induced by influenza A virus/H1N1 infection.
We set out to discover how red ginseng and vitamin C work together to enhance immune cell function and fight off viral infections like the flu. In our investigation, we treated human immune cells and specific types of mice unable to produce vitamin C, looking closely at their reaction to influenza A virus/H1N1.
Our findings were quite promising. We observed that both red ginseng and vitamin C elevated the activation levels of immune cells, particularly T-cells and natural killer (NK) cells, known for their vital role in combating viruses. This combination not only helped boost immune cell activity but also reduced lung inflammation caused by the influenza virus, which is crucial for better survival rates during infections.
In cases where vitamin C levels were low in a specific mouse model, we noted that the added nutrients significantly improved their condition. They experienced reduced viral load and inflammation in their lungs after receiving red ginseng and vitamin C, compared to those without this supplementation. These insights suggest that while red ginseng and vitamin C collectively support immune health, the interplay of these substances can be crucial in managing flu infections effectively.
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Zinc and flavonoids combat flu
Inhibition of Respiratory RNA Viruses by a Composition of Ionophoric Polyphenols with Metal Ions.
We investigated the potential of zinc in combination with herbal polyphenols and copper to reduce the infectivity of respiratory RNA viruses, including the flu. This study is particularly timely due to the ongoing challenges posed by viruses like SARS-CoV-2, highlighting the need for effective therapeutic solutions.
Zinc ions are known to play a role in modulating viral RNA replication, which makes them an appealing option for decreasing viral loads and infectivity. However, a significant challenge is that the natural concentration of zinc in our cells is often too low for effective results. To tackle this, we combined zinc picolinate, a form of zinc that’s easier for the body to absorb, with a range of flavonoids—natural compounds renowned for their antioxidant properties and existing antiviral effects.
We ensured that these combinations were safe by assessing their impact on cultured cells, confirming that they didn’t harm cell viability. When tested further, our results revealed an impressive 50-95% reduction in viral genome replication levels across a variety of respiratory RNA viruses, including the flu virus, which suggests that this combination therapy could be promising in the fight against such illnesses.
Overall, our findings highlight an innovative approach to treating viral infections that is non-toxic, derived from nature, and may remain effective against emerging viral strains.
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EpiCor reduces flu symptoms in children
Efficacy of a yeast postbiotic on cold/flu symptoms in healthy children: A randomized-controlled trial.
We examined the impact of EpiCor, a yeast-derived postbiotic, on flu symptoms in healthy children. In a study involving 256 kids aged 4-12, participants took either EpiCor or a placebo for 84 days during the flu season.
The results were promising! Kids receiving EpiCor experienced significantly reduced severity of cold/flu symptoms and relied less on cold medications compared to those on the placebo. Overall, EpiCor proved to be a safe option for bolstering immune function in young children.
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Probiotics reduce flu symptoms
Effectiveness of Multistrain Probiotic Formulation on Common Infectious Disease Symptoms and Gut Microbiota Modulation in Flu-Vaccinated Healthy Elderly Subjects.
We conducted a study to see if probiotics could make a difference for flu-vaccinated elderly individuals. Fifty participants in a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial took a multistrain probiotic for 28 days.
After this period, we noticed a decrease in both symptoms and incidence of common infections in those who received the probiotics. Additionally, we found promising changes in immune system markers and gut health. This indicates that probiotics might improve protection against infections by boosting immunity and positively influencing gut microbiota.
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Probiotics reduce flu-related costs
Probiotics Reduce Health Care Cost and Societal Impact of Flu-Like Respiratory Tract Infections in the USA: An Economic Modeling Study.
We explored how probiotics can reduce the health care costs and societal impacts of flu-like respiratory infections. By using a state-transition microsimulation model, we investigated various scenarios to estimate the economic benefits of probiotics in 2017-2018.
Our findings revealed potential savings of $4.6 million to $1.4 billion, depending on the source of data analyzed. Overall, fewer RTI episodes led to less medical intervention and fewer missed workdays.
While the results suggest probiotics could alleviate some burden on health systems, this study focuses mainly on economic modeling rather than direct clinical effectiveness.
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