Immunocal Platinum works with the body to repair damaged cells and to improve mood, energy, well-being, alertness, concentration and clarity, all important to the maturing population. It also helps maintain proper muscle function and maintain bone health by reducing calcium loss.
The Physicians' Desk Reference (PDR) is the authoritative source of FDA approved information on prescription drugs. Although Immunocal is a natural, non‑drug supplement, it appears in the
U.S. Physicians' Desk Reference.
However, immunocal is also available without a prescription.
The CPS or Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties is published yearly and is distributed to Canadian Physicians and Pharmacists. Although Immunocal is a natural, non‑drug supplement, it appears in the CPS.
However, immunocal is also available without a prescription.
Immunocal is listed in the U.S. Pharmacists' Red Book. Celebrating 110
years of service, the Red Book remains the Pharmacy's most reliable
source for product information and prices on prescription drugs, OTC
items, and reimbursable medical supplies. For the complete text of the
Red Book listing, please
click here.
Medicare/Medicaid
Immunocal is eligible for Medicare/Medicaid coverage and reimbursement. It is also covered by many private insurance programs.
Immunocal is an all-natural non-prescription health product available worldwide. This special protein holds many national and international patents and is medically recognized in the Physicians’ Desk Reference (“PDR” U.S.A.) and Compendium of Pharmaceutical Specialties (“CPS” Canada). It has undergone over 30 years of research and has been taken safely and effectively by millions of individuals.
Immunocal acts in two ways – it is a very high quality protein that provides
all the amino acids your body needs, and, more critically, it raises a substance
in your body called “glutathione”. Glutathione plays many roles in your body,
the four most important of which can be summarized by the acronym:
AID = E2
A –
Antioxidant: Glutathione is the body’s “Master Antioxidant” I –
Immune System: Glutathione is critical for immune function D –
Detoxification: Glutathione is your cell's key detoxification
enzyme E2–
Glutathione contributes to your overall energy at
many levels
The Natural Health Products Directorate of Health Canada has issued an NPN
(Natural Product Number) for the specific health claim “Immunocal is a
natural source of the glutathione precursor cysteine for the maintenance of a
strong immune system.” (NPN-80004370)
Immunocal contains specific fragile proteins that supply your body with the
building blocks needed for the production of glutathione in your cells.
These building blocks are called “precursors” and glutathione precursors are
relatively rare in our normal diets. Unfortunately, eating glutathione itself
does not effectively raise glutathione in the cells; this is why we need the
precursors.
Glutathione is an essential component of your cells, with low glutathione
levels, cells cannot perform many of their functions properly. Although
glutathione functions in dozens of roles in our metabolism, the major functions
can be summarized in four areas:
It is the major antioxidant produced by the body.
Antioxidants such as vitamins C or E cannot be made by your body and in fact
could not work properly if glutathione were not present.
Our immune systems depend on a steady supply of
glutathione. Without it, our immune defenses become weakened.
It is important in detoxifying many substances including
heavy metals, breakdown products of cigarettes and automobile exhaust, many
cancer-causing agents, and a multitude of pollutants and toxins we encounter
on a daily basis.
The major source of energy produced in our cells is
derived from tiny structures called mitochondria. These mitochondria would
literally burn up without the presence of glutathione.
Every day our bodies are exposed to factors that drain our levels of glutathione: Stress, pollution, radiation, infection, drugs, poor diet, aging, injury and fatigue. These all contribute to glutathione depletion which, in turn, leads to cellular aging, disease and death. “Concern about maintaining one’s glutathione level will eventually be on par with other health maintenance issues.” says Dr. Bounous.
Some pharmaceutical drugs such as N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)have been developed to provide these precursors but there are also natural ways to raise glutathione levels. Vitamin C, E and selenium indirectly support glutathione function. Milk thistle (silymarin), alpha-lipoic acid and L-cysteine may have moderate effects. However, medical research indicates that the most effective natural way to raise glutathione is by feeding the individual specific cysteine and cystine-rich proteins as found in undenatured whey protein isolates. Through its unique formulation and proprietary manufacturing process, Immunocal is a nutraceutical containing undenatured whey proteins designed to raise glutathione. In fact, it is the only protein patented to raise glutathione levels naturally.
This type of natural approach to addressing health concerns is a welcome complement to conventional medicine, which has historically marginalized nutritional therapy. The key in bridging this gap between traditional medicine and natural medicine lies in appropriately formulating supplements based on solid research.
Optimal glutathione levels are important for everyone. Although you are
hopefully in good health right now, glutathione levels fall as we age, and are
lowered by a great number of very common illnesses. There is a constant demand
for glutathione in our daily life; stress, pollution and infectious disease are
all causes of glutathione depletion. For those that exercise regularly,
glutathione is especially important to replenish to avoid injury, improve
recovery time and keep your immune system strong.
Which illnesses may be
affected by raising glutathione?
Many disease states are characterized by low glutathione levels. Immunocal
has been developed as a strategy to help sustain glutathione levels. Glutathione
deficiency states include, but are not limited to: AIDS and cancer muscle
wasting, chemical and infectious hepatitis, radiation poisoning, malnutrition
states, strong physical stress, and acetaminophen toxicity. Many other problems
including cardiovascular, lung, digestive and kidney disorders are associated
with glutathione deficiency and are cited in numerous medical references.
People who have a specific allergy to milk proteins (this is different from
lactose intolerance) need to avoid this product. People who are taking
immunosuppressive medication in the case of organ transplants should not take
this product.
People who are on a protein-restricted diet need to calculate into their
daily equation 9 grams of protein per pouch and should not exceed their daily
protein limit. Keep in mind that Immunocal has a very high “biological value” as
a protein and will supply an excellent source of amino acids for those
individuals who may be challenged nutritionally.
Are there side effects and
what do I do about them?
Abdominal cramps and bloating can occasionally occur. This is usually
corrected by increasing your fluid intake. Rarely, some individuals may
experience a rash with this product. Although this may indicate an allergy, it
may represent a “detoxification reaction”. In both cases, discontinuing the
product should resolve the symptom. If any symptoms are severe or persistent,
contact your health care practitioner.
There have been no known harmful side effects of using Immunocal or any other Immunotec product while on medications. However, to be safe, it is suggested to consult with your physician if you have any questions.
As a natural source of the glutathione cysteine precursor for the maintenance
of the good health, 10 grams per day (one pouch) is recommended. As a natural
source of the glutathione cysteine precursor for the maintenance of a strong
immune system, 20 grams per day is recommended (two pouches). Clinical trials in
patients with AIDS, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cancer and
chronic fatigue syndrome have used 30 - 40 grams per day without ill effect.
Immunocal is best administered on an empty stomach or with a light meal.
Concomitant intake of another high protein load may adversely affect absorption.
The proteins in Immunocal are very fragile. Do not heat this product
or add it to hot liquids. Do not use a high-powered blender to mix.
Heat and severe mechanical action will break down the protein and diminish
the usefulness of the product.
Immunocal is a dehydrated powder. It must be rehydrated with liquids before
use. If left standing too long after mixing, the usefulness of the product may
be reduced. It is generally recommended to consume the product within 30 minutes
of mixing. Special low-speed blenders or mixing cups can be made available
through Immunotec Inc.’s distribution networks.
Using the Immunotec hand mixer:
Fill a glass or container with 180-240 ml (6-8 oz) of your favorite juice
or liquid*. Add Immunocal - you'll find it easiest to first squeeze the
pouch to fit the container - and mix until blended.
Using the Immunotec shaker:
Pour 60 ml (2 oz) of liquid to the fill line. Add 1-2 pouches of
Immunocal. Seal and shake for 10-15 seconds. Add more liquid and drink
immediately.
Or choose an alternative method that suits your personal
preferences and lifestyle:
Empty one pouch of product into a small container, add 2 tablespoons of
your favorite juice or liquid and make a gravy-like paste. Add 180-240 ml
(6-8 oz) of juice or liquid, stir and drink.
Add the product to applesauce or yogurt.
*Certain liquids create more foam than others: orange
juice is recommended.
Try to keep Immunocal in a cool dry place. Avoid prolonged exposure to hot
environments. Refrigeration will prolong the life of the product but is
optional.
Immunocal has been Immunotec’s flagship product for years. Immunocals’ action
is based on the benefits of raising glutathione. The wealth of research on
glutathione and the aging process speaks for itself. What is it about the
“Platinum” formulation that takes this a step further? Let’s examine this
closer.
The major impact on your health that Immunocal bestows is by providing the
building blocks or “precursors” for your cells to be able to make glutathione.
This is a technology that we continue to refine. Both Immunocal and Immunocal
Platinum represent the only patented protein proven to do this. In the
development of Immunocal Platinum, we have looked very carefully both at protein
metabolism and at potential components of whey proteins that relate to aging.
Two separate formulations have been added to Immunocal – CMP™* and RMF.
CMP (Cytokine Modulating Peptides)
Cytokines are little molecules that the immune system uses to regulate
inflammation. Inflammation plays a role not only in issues like aches and pains,
but also in cardiovascular and neurological health. Inflammation has been
pointed to as one of the key factors driving the aging process. What CMP does,
is “turn down the volume” on these cytokines.
*CMP is a trademark of Glanbia LLC.
RMF (Redox Modulating Formula)
RMF is an exclusive development from Immunotec’s research and development
team mastered by Dr. Wulf Dröge. The major objective here was to decrease the
amount of acid formed in the body (important to the kidneys), and as a second
benefit, reduces the amount of calcium lost (important in bone health).
Who should take Platinum?
We all should take Platinum. Although it was initially developed with the
“Baby-Boomers” and geriatric populations in mind, it became clear that there
were benefits for overweight individuals, athletic individuals, people with
circulation challenges and others. Certainly, good old Immunocal has proven
benefits for all these groups, but Platinum represents the next generation in
immune enhancement and will become the new standard in the immune health market.
The recommended serving size is unchanged from Immunocal and it can be combined
with Immunocal as desired.
Turn a triple into a HOME RUN!
Immunocal Platinum provides a triple action on your immune health – Raising
glutathione represents Preventative immunity, the cytokine modulating proteins
representing Reparative Immunity. Attention to the proper acid-base balance
helps lead to Sustained Immunity. Turn this triple into a homer by topping it
off with the other supplements your health professional may recommend to you!
What is the difference between Immunocal and Immunocal Platinum?
Immunocal naturally boosts glutathione levels in the human cell, helping the immune system to perform at optimal levels. The Platinum product contains the same glutathione-enhancing ingredients as Immunocal, but was designed specifically for baby boomers.
Among its many features, Immunocal Platinum works with the body to repair damaged cells and to improve mood, energy, well-being, alertness, concentration and clarity, all important to the maturing population. It also helps maintain proper muscle function and maintain bone health by reducing calcium loss.
Can a person who is lactose-intolerant take Immunocal?
Yes, since each pouch of Immunocal contains less than 1% lactose, it is usually well-tolerated in people who are lactose-intolerant. It should be noted that being lactose-intolerant is different than having a milk protein allergy.
How does the manufacture of Immunocal differ from other whey proteins?
Immunotec’s proprietary manufacturing process preserves the critical disulfide bonds in the glutathione precursor cysteine. By delivering this delicate protein to the cell, it enables the body to create glutathione and maximize immune system levels. Other whey proteins are often manufactured using extreme heat and harsh methods of mixing, resulting in a denatured and ineffective product.
Immunocal works by providing important glutathione precursors to the cell. It is critical that these precursors remain intact or undenatured during the manufacturing and mixing processes in order to enhance the immune system. That is why the manufacture (Immunotec) recommend that Immunocal not be heated or subject to harsh mixing in order to preserve its bioactivity.
What is the difference between Immunocal and other whey proteins?
While other whey proteins may be good sources of nutrition, only Immunocal is proven to raise glutathione levels and enhance the immune system. Immunocal has a proprietary and unique formulation developed by Immunotec who uses a proprietary manufacturing process for its production.
Glutathione is produced by the body in the cell when the necessary precursors are provided. Immunocal delivers cysteine to the cell so that it can produce glutathione. Pills pass through the digestive system and little, if any, glutathione is absorbed.
Immunocal is listed in the Physicians’ Desk Reference, the Pharmacist’s Red Book and is eligible for coverage under Medicare/Medicaid in the U.S. In Canada, it is listed in the Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties (CPS).
Yes. Immunocal is eligible for Medicare/Medicaid coverage and reimbursement under certain conditions.
It is also covered by many private insurance programs. For more information,
click on this link, or consult your physician.
Immunocal has been awarded numerous method of use patents for the prevention and treatment of cancer, the treatment of HIV, as an immune system enhancer, for its ability to raise glutathione, and as a chemotherapeutic agent.
Yes. Immunocal has been tested as part of ConsumerLab.com’s Athletic Banned Substance Screening
Program which screens for over 170 substances (including metabolites) based on the 2007 World
Anti-Doping Code Prohibited List and has been certified free of any prohibited substances. The
screening includes testing for stimulants, narcotics, anabolic agents, diuretics, masking agents and
beta blockers based on the Olympic Movement Anti-Doping Code or the codes of other sports
organizations. To view Immunocal on ConsumerLab.com’s website, visit:
http://www.consumerlab.com/results/bannedsub.asp.