Study: Immune-Boosting Wellmune Beta Glucan in ImmiFlex Supports Health of Older Adults

Clinical Research Conducted at University of Southampton

 

EAGAN, MN – June 20, 2014 – Wellmune WGP®, the natural immune-boosting ingredient for foods, beverages and supplements, supported the health of older adults during cold and flu season, according to a new clinical study conducted at the University of Southampton in the UK.

The study consisted of 100 healthy adults aged 50-70 years consuming 250 mgs of Wellmune or a placebo for 90 days. Wellmune demonstrated a trend towards reducing the number of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) and statistically significant changes and trends in cytokine levels that are part of the body’s response to viral encounters and inflammation.

“The reduction in URTI symptoms coupled with the modulation of key cytokines indicates the potential health benefits of Wellmune for older adults whose immune systems have become less robust with age,” said Donald Cox, Ph.D, senior vice president, Biothera Healthcare Research & Development. “We will use the results of this pilot study to design a larger, properly powered study to more fully evaluate the benefits of Wellmune in older adults.”

Richard Fuller, M.D., who led the study within the Department of Primary Care and Population Science, said: “Respiratory infections are a major source of health burden and a leading cause for antibiotic use. The concept of using Wellmune as a nutritional supplement to support immune defences was very popular with study participants. The results of this pilot are encouraging and further studies certainly seem justified.”

Wellmune is a proprietary beta 1/3, 1/6 glucan from baker’s yeast that naturally boosts innate immune cells that help keep the body healthy. Ten human clinical studies consistently demonstrate the ability of Wellmune to reduce URTI symptoms, enhance vigor and mental clarity, and reduce fatigue.

“Older adults are one of the world’s largest population segments, and there is a growing need for products that deliver natural immune support,” said Richard G. Mueller, Biothera chief executive officer. “Our impressive body of research demonstrates the safety and efficacy of Wellmune, making it the ideal ingredient for aging consumers.”

Study Design & Results

The double-blinded study included 100 older adults (ages 50-70) who are at a stage of life where age-related immune decline may underlie susceptibility to health challenges. Study participants were randomized into two groups, one receiving a placebo and the other 250 mgs of Wellmune for 90 days during the peak cold and flu season.

An URTI episode was classified as two or more symptoms for two consecutive days, confirmed by medical assessment. Blood and saliva samples were collected at days 0, 45 and 90 to measure serum and Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-stimulated whole-blood cytokines and chemokines. LPS is a component of the cell wall of gram-negative bacteria that is used to mimic the presence of infection.

The data from the Wellmune subjects trended towards prevention of URTI. Statistically significant changes and trends were observed in cytokine levels, including IL-12p70 and IL-10, interferon gamma and MIG (Monokine Induced by Gamma interferon/ CXCL9). These cytokines are chemical messengers that help the body response to challenges.

The research was conducted by the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Southampton, Southampton, UK, and presented at the Southampton Translational Clinical Research Conference. The study is entitled, “Yeast-Derived 1,3/1,6 Glucopolysaccharide to Prevent Upper Respiratory Tract Infection and Modulate Circulating Cytokines and Chemokines in Older Adults.” Publication of the data is pending.

About Wellmune WGP®

Wellmune WGP is 100% natural baker’s yeast beta 1,3/1,6 glucan that has been clinically proven to strengthen key immune cells that help keep the body healthy. This natural food, beverage and supplement ingredient has regulatory approval in major markets around the world, including GRAS status in the U.S. and novel food approval in Europe and China. Products containing Wellmune are available in more than 60 countries. Wellmune is patented, Kosher, Halal, non-allergenic and GMO-free. A recipient of numerous food industry awards for scientific excellence, Wellmune is a product of Biothera, a U.S. biotechnology company dedicated to improving immune health.

Source:

Wellmune.com

Study:

Yeast-Derived 1,3/1,6 Glucopolysaccharide to Prevent Upper Respiratory Tract Infection and Modulate Circulating Cytokines and Chemokines in Older Adults

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