For more information on Immunocal and Immunocal Platinum, please click HERE.
Q. What is Immunocal bioactive whey protein? What is HMS-90?
A. We recommend a specific brand of bioactive whey protein (Immunocal, which is also called Humanized Milk Serum, or HMS-90 in Canada). Immunocal is not a prescription drug, but a powerful and unique patented (77 Method of Use Patents world-wide, and 5 US Patents) un-denatured and highly bio-active whey protein dietary supplement that is loaded with glutathione precursors. Immunocal bioactive whey protein took $10 million and 18 years of research to perfect. Research and additional investment into the product continues annually. The primary researcher involved in the discovery of bioactive whey protein is Gustavo Bounous, MD. Immunocal bioactive whey protein is a highly concentrated milk serum isolate which is high in protein (90% protein by weight) and is lactose-free, carbohydrate and sugar-free, and fat-free. Immunocal bioactive whey protein shares many of the same immune promoting and enhancing properties of Mother's milk. Immunocal bioactive whey protein has been clinically proven to increase serum and tissue glutathione levels, and is validated by extensive research, including numerous published scientific studies and review articles which appear in the medical literature and are available for you to examine through our MEDLINE (National Library of medicine) link. Immunocal bioactive whey protein increases glutathione, which is your cells' own natural antioxidant and most potent detoxifier. Immunocal bioactive whey protein has been demonstrated to enhance both healthy and deficient immune systems, and is validated as an effective nutritional supplement by the medical community. Immunocal bioactive whey protein is the only non-prescription dietary supplement to appear in the year 2000 through 2005 Physician's Desk Reference (PDR) for Prescription Drugs, although it is available without prescription! It has it's own NDC (National Drug Control) number, and is reimbursable under Medicaid, Medicare, and by private insurance in many states.
Q. Is Immunocal bioactive whey protein approved by the FDA for the treatment of cancer, chronic fatigue, autoimmune, and glutathione deficiency diseases?
A. No. The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not "approve" any nutritional supplements for these indications. The FDA determines the safety of nutritional supplements, and regulates or restricts the distribution of those products considered to pose a health risk to the American public. Immunocal bioactive whey protein is considered to be "generally recognized as Safe", (GRAS) by the FDA. This is the same classification given vitamin C. Based on a recent decision by the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit, the FDA is tolerating references to certain therapeutic uses of nutritional supplements which are based on strong scientific or clinical evidence and "significant scientific agreement". Because Immunocal bioactive whey protein is manufactured by a Canadian company, the manufacturer is more sensitive to the regulatory pressures of the FDA than American supplement manufacturers, and has chosen to be ultra-conservative in their marketing of the product. Each box of the product is produced from 500 liters of fresh, organic milk from free-range, grass-fed cattle on a contract farm in the state of Idaho. Like all nutritional supplements, No disease treatment claims are made concerning Immunocal bioactive whey protein.
Q. What is the difference between bioactive whey protein and other whey proteins?
A. Bioactive whey protein has been shown to differ from other whey proteins in its effect upon the immune system. Specifically, scientific studies on other whey proteins have not shown the same immune stimulating effects that are seen with Immunocal bioactive whey protein. Immunotec Inc, the manufacturer of Immunocal has invested over $10 million in research on Immunocal. Immunocal bioactive whey protein has been extensively studied in the clinical literature. Comparing Immunocal® bioactive whey protein to other commercial whey proteins clearly shows the superiority of Immunocal® bioactive whey protein. Immunocal® Bioactive whey protein is a dietary supplement that is supported by eighteen years of research through rigorous clinical trials that have been published in peer review journals. These studies, performed in world-renowned medical and scientific institutions, attest to the quality and safety of Immunocal® bioactive whey protein. Immunocal® Bioactive whey protein studies have shown that they not only increase intracellular levels of GSH (glutathione or glutathione precursors) following ingestion, but also significantly build up the stores of these substances inside the cells. This beneficial effect lasts for considerable periods of time after ingestion of Immunocal® bioactive whey protein.
Q. What is the product's bioactivity dependent upon?
A. Concentrations of 3 bioactive and thermolabile (easily damaged by heat) proteins that are contained in the milk serum: serum albumin, alpha lactalbumin and lactoferrin. Because these compounds can be damaged by heat (in excess of 140 degrees F) or excessive mechanical agitation, Immunocal® bioactive whey protein must not be cooked, heated, or placed in a steel-bladed blender. For these reasons, and to preserve the bioactivity of its serum albumin, alpha lactalbumin and lactoferrin, Immunocal® bioactive whey protein has not been exposed to standard high-temperature Pasteurization. Rather, it has been bio-filtered to remove bacteria, and subjected to patent-process low-temperature purification procedures to ensure its safety and purity.
Q. If a different manufacturer of whey protein supplements was able to duplicate our technology, could they make the same claims?
A. No. The power of our patents is not in manufacturing. Immunocal® Bioactive whey protein patents (presently there are 77 patents on Immunocal® bioactive whey protein: 5 US patents, and 64 international patents) relate to the METHOD OF USE. That is, no other whey protein can state: "clinically PROVEN to stimulate the immune system", and "significantly raises glutathione levels". Additionally, although there are dozens of companies producing denatured (high-heat Pasteurized) whey proteins (primarily for use as a protein source in body-building), there currently is no company manufacturing an UNDENATURED whey protein product similar to Immunocal® bioactive whey protein. Numerous clinical studies and medical reviews appear in the clinical literature which specifically involved Immunocal® bioactive whey protein, and not other high-heat pasteurized commercial whey proteins. Accept no imitations.
Q. What exactly is glutathione and how is it important?
A. Glutathione is the master antioxidant of the body. Without glutathione, we die. The replenishment of the glutathione levels within the lymphocytes (also called leucocytes or white blood cells) increases the intensity of the immune response. The increase in glutathione levels also results in the proliferation of lymphocytes that act as a scavengers, and helps to combat infections. Selenium (a micronutrient and mineral) is a structural component of, and a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase. For this reason, supplementation with selenium can modestly increase glutathione levels in persons who are selenium deficient. Glutathione is a tri-peptide of the amino acids cysteine, glycine, and glutamic acid. Tissue glutathione levels increase when cystine levels increase within the cell. This is why cystine is critical in the production of glutathione, but prior to the development of Immunocal®, no effective way was known to safely and significantly increase cystine levels in the cell over long periods of time. A deficiency of glutathione can cause hemolysis (the destruction of red blood cells resulting in severe anemia) and numerous diseases of oxidative stress. Low glutathione levels are commonly found among the elderly, those undergoing cancer chemotherapy, and among patients suffering from autoimmune and immune deficiency diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome (CFSIDS), fibromyalgia, and AIDS. Glutathione is essential in intermediary metabolism as a donor of sulfhydryl groups (which are essential for the detoxification of the liver). That is why the only known "side effects" associated with Immunocal® bioactive whey protein supplementation are associated with the beneficial detoxification which occurs as a result of improved liver function. The antioxidant enzyme glutathione peroxidase functions in the process of elimination of wastes from the body. Glutathione works within the liver, lungs, colon, kidneys, and skin in the process of removing toxic eliminating cellular metabolic wastes.
Q. What is the difference between products or pills that people use as supplements that are labeled as "glutathione" or "cystine"?
A. Glutathione is produced within the cells (intra-cellularly). When taking a pill labeled "glutathione", clinical and laboratory studies demonstrate that oral glutathione is NOT absorbed but will be eliminated by the liver through the bile before ever reaching the systemic circulation (blood stream). Cystine is not well absorbed when taken by mouth. Injectable glutathione also has limited benefits. It is unstable in the blood stream. By the time it gets to the cell, much of it gets degraded, and much of this remaining glutathione cannot effectively pass through the cell membrane.
Clinical studies have demonstrated that oral cystine supplementation (NAC or N Acetyl L-Cysteine) is NOT effective in increasing cystine levels within the cell, and has also not been associated with significant increases in glutathione levels within the cell. The three bioactive proteins supplied by Immunocal® bioactive whey protein constitute a "natural delivery system" from these cystine precursors to the cell (in order to facilitate clinically and statistically significant increases in glutathione levels in BOTH the extracellular serum and intracellular tissues). Because Immunocal® bioactive whey protein provides the building blocks for cystine, and these building blocks for cystine are easily transported inside the cell where they can be quickly synthesized into glutathione, Immunocal® bioactive whey protein is therefore ideally suited to increase glutathione levels within the cell.
Q. What is the difference between NAC (N Acetyl L-Cysteine) and Immunocal® bioactive whey protein?
A. N Acetyl L-Cysteine (NAC) is sulfur-containing (sulfhydryl) amino acid which is present in many proteins, and is in the same class as the amino acid methionine. NAC is a naturally occurring amino sugar and is a form of cysteine which has been demonstrated to facilitate the SHORT TERM cellular detoxification of alcohol, tobacco smoke, acetaminophen [Tylenol®] poisoning and environmental pollutants in several in vitro studies. When Cystine is heated, molecular bonds are cleaved and it becomes Cysteine. Cysteine is beneficial if it is produced INSIDE the cell, but is mildly toxic if it is produced outside the cell. NAC does not travel well in the blood stream, and doesn't reach the cells (to be used to synthesize glutathione and Glutamic acid). NAC supplementation over long periods has been associated with modest increases in serum glutathione, but has not proven particularly useful in the treatment of chronic, long-term intracellular glutathione deficiencies. Furthermore, therapeutic levels of NAC are relatively toxic and have been associated with significant side effects. At therapeutic doses, oral NAC supplementation has been associated with cerebral symptoms, nausea, blurred vision, and vomiting. Immunocal® Bioactive whey protein provides the precursors for the manufacture of intra-cellular cystine, and effectively delivers these to the cell. For this reason, Immunocal® bioactive whey protein supplementation has been associated with sustained and significant increases of cellular glutathione, and is virtually devoid of troublesome side-effects. Immunocal® Bioactive whey protein has the same side-effect profile as mothers' milk.
Q. What is the difference between bovine colostrum and Immunocal® bioactive whey protein?
A. The proteins in colostrum have almost no cystine content. Cystine is critically essential to the immune system. Although Growth Factors present in colostrum (including IGF-1, or Insulin-like growth Factor-1 which is effective in promoting muscle growth) are not affected by stomach acid, research published by one manufacturer of Colostrum (Vital Health News, Winter 1998, page 7) demonstrated that "the effectiveness of the immune factors present in colostrum is lowered by stomach acid." Although the immune enhancing factors found in colostrum are often "preferable to single isolated immune components" (such as interferon, which is more likely to cause troublesome side effects), colostrum has NOT been demonstrated to be superior to isolated undenatured whey proteins such as Immunocal® bioactive whey protein. Colostrum (which is produced during the first 26 hours following birth by the mammary glands) is primarily composed of immunoglobulin and some lactoferrin. According to both laboratory experiments and clinical trials conducted in Germany, although colostrum supplementation was associated with mild increases in immune function in some patients, these increases were not statistically significant, (p=ns). A postulated mechanism of action of colostrum is the inter-species transfer of immune factors, however this has NOT been clinically proven. Most of the data supporting the effectiveness of colostrum is anecdotal (consisting mostly of personal testimonies rather than clinical studies). Since the primary mechanism of action on the immune system is via stimulation of the synthesis (production) of glutathione, the near absence of glutathione precursors in the immunoglobulin fraction (from the colostrum) may explain its relative lack of effect. Conversely, Immunocal® bioactive whey protein contains substantial amounts of thermolabile (heat-sensitive) proteins that are rich in cystine and glutamylcystine (known precursors of glutathione), and Immunocal® bioactive whey protein has been validated in numerous human clinical trials which found statistically significant increases in glutathione and indices of immune function (such as CD4:CD8 ratios). Colostrum might be beneficial as an adjunctive (add-on) to Immunocal® bioactive whey protein, but the clinical data is significantly more convincing for Immunocal® bioactive whey protein.
Q. How does the manufacturing of our product differ from other whey proteins?
A. In the manufacturing of other whey proteins several things occur: in the process of heating and Pasteurization, critical bonds holding the cystine together get broken down ("denatured", meaning they loose their original nature--similar to the denaturing and irreversible changing of liquid egg white by the heating process involved in frying an egg). The exact type of proteins that serve to increase tissue and serum glutathione most effectively are lost or diminished. Researchers have developed a process by which these delicate proteins remain intact in their natural form to serve us most effectively.
Q. Is Immunocal® bioactive whey protein free from Bovine Growth Hormone, antibiotics, and other chemicals?
A. rBGH (bovine Growth Hormone) and other growth hormones have become a major issue of controversy in the dairy industry. Certain herdsmen give their cows the growth hormone to increase milk production. It is devastating to the cows, and may be dangerous to those who drink their milk. Immunotec, manufacturer of Immunocal bioactive whey protein, receives all of their milk from one large dairy farm in the state of Idaho. This particular location was chosen because the soil selenium levels are highest in the USA, and grazing on grasses which are grown on Idaho selenium-rich soil results in high selenium levels in the milk. Selenium (an essential micronutrient and mineral) is a structural component of the powerful "master antioxidant" glutathione. The selenium level in 10 grams of Immunocal® bioactive whey protein is more than 4 mcg, which is much higher than found in most commercial whey proteins. That is good. This facilitates the cystine component of the whey protein (Immunocal® bioactive whey protein is 100% whey protein) from this selenium-rich milk to be more effeciently metabolized by the body to form glutathione within the cells of the body. On the other hand, absolutely no herbicides, pesticides or chemicals are used on the grasses these cows graze upon. The milk from these cows is certified organic (hormone, pesticide and agricultural chemical-free).The cattle on this farm are subjected to more rigorous standards than almost any other dairy cattle in the USA. If a cow is sick and must be treated with antibiotics (or any other pharmaceutical compound), it is removed from the herd and its milk is not used. Absolutely no BGH or other hormone compounds are used on these cows.
Q. What are some additional benefits of whey proteins?
A. Immunocal® bioactive whey protein has been clinically demonstrated to increase exercise capacity by 13 percent (Lands et al., 1999), and may be useful as a supplement for competitive athletes. Wattanabe et al. (Japan) conducted a clinical study with Immunocal® bioactive whey protein to evaluate increases in GSH among patients with Hepatitis B and C, and found that these viruses are vulnerable to glutathione. In-vitro studies in Japan also showed that whey can stimulate the bone cell (osteoblasts) to produce more bone, hence increasing bone density and reducing the risk of osteoporosis. Lactalbumin from whey protein has been demonstrated to kill breast cancer cells in vitro (in a test-tube). Glutathione (from whey protein) lowers serum cholesterol by stimulating bile synthesis in the liver. In addition, glutathione is a powerful antioxidant that will prevent lipid peroxidation (a sign of free radical activity). Lipid peroxidation is implicated in arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), stroke and coronary artery disease. Because neither Immunocal® bioactive whey protein nor glutathione is a drug, no disease treatment claims can be made on the basis of these studies.
Q. What is the theoretical mechanism of action of GLUTATHIONE in Cancer and Immune dysfunction?
A. Natural killer (Immune) cells may become glutathione-depleted over time, and immune response weakens. Immunocal® bioactive whey protein raises glutathione levels and strengthens the immune system. The immuine system is the body's first line of defense against cancer, viruses, bacteria, etc. For those patients receiving traditional medical therapy for their cancer, Immunocal® bioactive whey protein supplies lactalbumin and has been clinically proven to raise glutathione levels. Glutathione and lactalbumin (a component of bioactive whey protein) have been associated with the strengthening of healthy cells and (paradoxically) the weakening of cancerous cells. In research conducted by C. Svanborg et al, lactalbumin was associated with apoptosis (or the programmed death) of breast cancer cells. Glutathione has been scientifically demonstrated to decrease cancerous cells' resistance to chemotherapeutic drugs, while protecting healthy cells. This would theoretically allow a patient to respond better to chemotherapy with less side effects. Because neither Immunocal® bioactive whey protein, lactalbumin, nor glutathione is a drug, no disease treatment claims can be made on the basis of these studies.
Q. What are the diseases or conditions that have been associated with low glutathione levels?
A. Most of the autoimmune and degenerative diseases of aging including: Acetaminophen poisoning, ADD, Addison's Disease, aging, AIDS, Alopecia Areata, ALS, Alzheimers' Disease, anemia (hemolytic), Ankylosing Spondylitis, Arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), arthritis (rheumatoid), asthma, autism, autoimmune disease, Behcet's Disease, burns, cacexia, cancer, candida infection, cardiomyopathy (idiopathic), Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, colitis, coronary artery disease, cystic fibrosis, diabetes, Crohn's disease, eczema, emphysema, Epstein Barr Viral (EBV) syndrome, fibromyalgia, free radical overload, Goodpasture Syndrome, Graves' Disease, hepatic dysfunction (liver disease), hepatitis B, hepatitis C, hypercholesterolemia (high blood cholesterol), herpes, infections (viral, bacterial and fungal), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), lupus, macular degeneration (diabetic macular degeneration), malnutrition, Meniere's disease, multiple sclerosis, Myasthenia Gravis, neurodegenerative diseases, nutritional disorders, Parkinson's disease, Pemphigus Vulgaris, Primary Biliary Cirrhosis, progeria, psoriasis, Rheumatic Fever, Sarcoidosis, scleroderma, shingles, stroke, surgery, toxic poisoning, trauma, vasculitis, vitiligo, and Wegener's Granulomatosis. No disease treatment claims can be made for glutathione on the basis of glutathione deficiency in these diseases.
Q. Has therapy to increase glutathione levels been effective in treating the diseases or conditions that have been associated with low glutathione levels?
A. See: Medline Search Page. No disease treatment claims can be made for glutathione on the basis of glutathione deficiency in these diseases.
Q. Can a person who is lactose intolerant take Immunocal® bioactive whey protein?
A. Yes, certain brands. Immunocal® bioactive whey protein has less than 0.5% lactose which should not cause any ill effect even in the most severe case of lactose intolerance.
Q. Can a person who is intolerant of Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) take Immunocal® bioactive whey protein?
A. Yes, Immunocal® bioactive whey protein has NO added MSG (trace amounts may occur naturally) which should not cause any ill effect in people with an MSG intolerance. Immunocal® bioactive whey protein contains the following amount of glutamic acid by weight: 180 mg/gram. There is therefore 1.8 grams of glutamic acid in a 10 gram packet of Immunocal® bioactive whey protein. Every single protein on the earth contains glutamic acid, and glutamic acid is required for good health. Glutamic acid is an amino acid formed in the digestion of ALL proteins (including wheat gluten and meat). It is the only amino acid metabolized by the brain. Glutamic acid is necessary in human nutrition but can usually be manufactured by the body in adequate amounts. That means that our own body produces it. In certain disease states, deficient diet, malnutrition, and in certain metabolic abnormalities this amino acid becomes conditionally essential. Glutamic Acid's sodium salt, is monosodium glutamate, and ALL proteins may contain naturally occurring trace amounts of MSG. In summary, Immunocal® bioactive whey protein would not supply any more glutamic acid than a serving of steak or other similar protein. There is NO added MSG in Immunocal® bioactive whey protein, and its supplementation should not cause a medical problem in a persons sensitive to MSG.
Q. Are there any interactions known between supplements such as coenzyme Q-10, antioxidant vitamins, or herbs and Immunocal® bioactive whey protein?
A. No, there are no known potential or reported interactions between Immunocal® bioactive whey protein and nutritional supplements. In fact, Immunocal® bioactive whey protein increases glutathione levels, which helps to improve the action of antioxidant vitamins (which are less effective if your glutathione levels are impaired). For this reason, mega-doses of antioxidant vitamins (i.e. doses in excess of 10 times the RDA of these vitamins) are not required or recommended if you are supplementing with Immunocal® bioactive whey protein. As we age, our glutathione levels fall precipitously like a down-hill ski-slope. Low levels of glutathione are associated with a host of degenerative diseases, and critically low levels of serum and tissue glutathione often predict that death is imminent. Supplementation with Immunocal® bioactive whey protein helps restore these precious glutathione levels, and helps the supplemental vitamins we are taking to work more effectively to maintain optimum health! Because neither Immunocal® bioactive whey protein, nor glutathione is a drug, no disease treatment claims can be made on the basis of these findings.
Q. Are there any interactions known between prescription medications and Immunocal® bioactive whey protein?
A. No, there are no known interactions between Immunocal® bioactive whey protein and prescription drugs. Immunocal® bioactive whey protein is composed of the same basic proteins which are found in human breast milk, and should be considered to be as safe to take as mothers' breast milk. Furthermore, Immunocal® bioactive whey protein is 90% protein, and is one of the best sources of highly-absorbable protein on the planet. Patients taking immunosuppressant drugs such as Cyclosporin® should consult their physician before taking bioactive whey protein.
Q. Are there any side effects associated with Immunocal® bioactive whey protein?
A. Immunocal® Bioactive whey protein increases serum and liver glutathione levels. When liver glutathione levels rise, the liver is able to more effectively detoxify the body (which is a beneficial function of Immunocal® bioactive whey protein). Some people (especially those who have been exposed to high levels of environmental toxins) may have a mild temporary reaction to these mobilized toxins as the liver is removing them from storage in body fat. Typically, reducing the dose of Immunocal® bioactive whey protein will allow these temporary side effects to quickly disappear. Bioactive whey protein is composed of the same basic proteins that are found in human breast milk, and has the same side effect profile as mothers' breast milk. Because bioactive whey protein is a milk protein, persons who are mildly allergic to milk proteins may experience minor gastric distress from bioactive whey protein. This gastric distress usually disappears if you reduce the dose. Persons with serious milk-protein allergies should not take bioactive whey protein
Q. Can you overdose Immunocal® bioactive whey protein? Is there any potential for toxicity if you take too much?
A. Your greatest risk is wasting your money if you take "too much" Immunocal® bioactive whey protein, since it is relatively expensive. Scientific data suggests that there may be limited benefit from exceeding 50 grams per day (5 packets per day) of Immunocal bioactive whey protein, however some individuals may respond to higher doses. Because our cells have an innate mechanism of "feed-back inhibition" with respect to the glutathione synthesis precursors (building blocks) provided by bioactive whey protein, there is no potential for "overdosing" or for making "too much glutathione" within the cell if large quantities of bioactive whey protein are consumed. Immunocal® bioactive whey protein supplementation will result in establishment of normal glutathione levels, (NOT excessive glutathione levels) within the cell. Excess Immunocal® bioactive whey protein would be metabolized as protein (whey protein is an excellent source of protein, containing 90% protein by dry weight).
Q. Because Immunocal® bioactive whey protein is 90% protein, is it contraindicated in patients on renal dialysis who must limit protein intake?
A. No, Immunocal® bioactive whey protein is not contraindicated in these patients. Although we suggest that you consult your personal physician with medical questions such as these, there is no reason to believe that Immunocal® bioactive whey protein would be harmful in these patients. Immunocal® bioactive whey protein is one of the most easily digested and most easily absorbed forms of protein in the diet. Its Protein Efficiency Ratio (PER: a mark of the quality of a protein) is extremely high, and in conditions such as renal failure where protein intake must be limited, it is most prudent to consume the highest quality proteins such as whey proteins and egg white proteins, versus lower quality proteins that produce more problematic metabolic waste by-products and residues.
Q. Is Immunocal® bioactive whey protein contraindicated in Celiac Sprue disease?
A. No. These patients are usually instructed not ingest wheat or gluten. There is no wheat, or gluten found naturally in bioactive whey protein. Furthermore, at least one brand of bioactive whey protein (Immunocal) is lactose-free. There is no reason to believe that that Immunocal® bioactive whey protein would be detrimental in patients with Celiac Sprue.
Q. Does bioactive whey protein contain casein?
A. No.
Casein is considered a contaminant in whey protein. By definition, whey proteins are the group of milk proteins that remain soluble in "milk serum" or whey after precipitation (removal) of casein proteins. About 80% of the proteins in cow's milk are casein proteins and the remaining 20% are whey proteins. Because Immunocal is specifically manufactured to be 100% whey protein, with no additives, the casein (and lactose) has been removed during the purification process. It is possible that there could be trace amounts of these products that persist after the removal process, but certainly not enough to cause a problem for even the most sensitive individuals. Individuals who are sensitive to casein should not have any problem with Immunocal.
Q. Who should not take the product?
A. People with an allergy specifically to milk protein, (which is very rare). NOTE: Please understand that lactose intolerance is NOT a milk allergy. Also, anyone who has had an organ transplant and is receiving immunosuppressant therapy should not take bioactive whey protein unless instructed to do so by his or her physician or another health care professional. The immune system needs to be suppressed in order to prevent organ rejection, and bioactive whey protein may counteract immunosuppressant medicines such as cyclosporin®.
Q. What are some of the critical ingredients in a daily amount of Immunocal® bioactive whey protein (1 pouch)?
A. 9 grams or 90% Protein, 0 Fat, less than 0% Lactose, 60 mg of Calcium, 4 micrograms of Selenium, 30 Mg of Potassium, 0.05 mg of Iron, and approximately 40 Calories.
Q. What is the recommended dose for taking Immunocal® bioactive whey protein?
A. Check with your physician or health care professional. If you do not have a documented glutathione deficiency and are taking Immunocal® bioactive whey protein to maintain good health, one pack per day is not unreasonable. Generally, most studies conducted using Immunocal® bioactive whey protein in patients with glutathione deficiencies used at least 20 grams per day (2 pouches), and some studies showed increased effectiveness using up to 30 grams (3 pouches) per day. Most of our customers use 2 boxes per month (this provides 2 pouches, or 20 grams per day per month).
Q. What is the recommended intake of protein for an average adult per day? A. 50-60 grams of protein. Three packets of Immunocal® bioactive whey protein would provide 50% of this recommended daily intake.
Q. What is the difference in taking Immunocal® bioactive whey protein as opposed to taking antioxidants?
A. Vitamin E and C are important antioxidants, and you should consider these important supplements in your diet. Immunocal® Bioactive whey protein is not an antioxidant per se, but provides the building blocks for the synthesis of glutathione, which is THE principle intra-cellular antioxidant. Glutathione is the most potent cellular antioxidant known to man, and is hundreds of times more potent than vitamin C or vitamin E. For this reason, glutathione has been called the "Super Antioxidant". By raising the glutathione level within our bodies we provide for the optimum functioning of other lesser antioxidants such as vitamins C and E. More importantly, glutathione serves as a detoxifying agent for multiple toxins that we encounter on a daily basis through the environment and medications we are exposed to. Glutathione has been demonstrated to act as an effective protectant against ultraviolet radiation, which is important in view of the continued loss of the ozone layer.
Q. How much does Immunocal® bioactive whey protein cost?
A. Purchase Immunocal bioactive whey protein for as little as $79.20/box when you choose the "Immunodirect" automatic shipment program. You can enjoy the discount and cancel after your first shipment if you choose by calling (toll free) 800-833-3220 or 800-378-1578. There is NO obligation to continue to receive the product, but most of our customers choose to do so.
Q. Is there a test to determine if my glutathione levels are low?
A. Yes. We know of a licensed laboratory that charges only $40 for this test. DISCLAIMER: We are NOT associated with this laboratory, nor do we receive ANY reimbursement from recommending their services.
Q. Is Immunocal® bioactive whey protein listed in the Physicians Desk Reference (PDR)?
A. Yes. Immunocal®, a brand of bioactive whey protein produced from USA organic cow's milk and manufactured and processed in Canada is the ONLY nutritional product sold by direct sales to be listed in the prestigious PDR, which is also frequently called the "physician's bible", and is owned and consulted by virtually every physician in the USA and world-wide! Physicians have relied on the PDR for up-to-date information on prescription drugs for over 50 years. The PDR is considered the standard prescription drug reference and is found in virtually every physician's office. Although Immunocal® bioactive whey protein does NOT require a prescription, it's inclusion in the PDR is a result of recognition by the medical community, of the extensive clinical data supporting it's effectiveness, and as a result of it's recognition by Medicare and Medicaid as reimbursable. The publisher of the PDR, Medical Economics, also produces a smaller companion volume for non-prescription drugs and herbal medicines. This volume may contain references to other bioactive whey proteins and other nutritional supplements.
Q. Is Immunocal® bioactive whey protein reimbursed by Medicare, Medicaid and Private Insurance programs?
A. Yes. Although Medicare and Medicaid do not endorse or "approve" any company's product, a Immunocal bioactive whey protein meets the coding determination for coverage eligibility by Medicaid, Medicare, and many private insurance programs. Although the purchase of Immunocal® bioactive whey protein does not require a doctor's prescription, a prescription is required for reimbursement eligibility coverage under Medicare and Medicaid. NOTE: The Immunocal bioactive whey protein is the FIRST product sold by any direct selling company in the world to ever meet these strict criteria. This is a phenomenal accomplishment for a non-drug "nutritional supplement", and clearly establishes a higher level of validation and credibility for this product! The Immunocal bioactive whey protein has it's own NDC (National Drug Control) registry number: 28770-0970-01, and is being approved on a state-by-state basis for reimbursement. The code for Medicare is: B4155. Currently, Ohio, New Jersey, Minnesota, Nevada, and New York have established reimbursement guidelines, and decisions in 18 states are currently pending. In some of these states (notably New York State and California), Immunocal® bioactive whey protein is available without restriction on Medicaid. In other states, the physician must be willing to write a letter of necessity in addition to writing a prescription for it to be reimbursed. It meets the requirements for enteral nutritional supplements which are eligible for coverage by Medicare/Medicaid for nutritional management of the patient. This is available for general practitioners to prescribe. For Medicare patients, current coverage eligibility is limited to Naso-Gastric (NG) tube feedings, but Medicaid is much less restrictive. Medicaid has broader prescribing parameters for both oral as well as tube-feeding nutritional management. This Immunocal bioactive whey protein will be one of the few nutritional supplements to be listed in the year 2000 through 2009 edition of the prestigious Physicians' Desk Reference (PDR). Physicians have relied on the PDR for up-to-date information on prescription drugs for over 50 years. The PDR is considered the standard prescription drug reference and can be found in virtually every physician's office, hospital, and pharmacy in the United States. The inclusion of this product in the PDR is a reflection of it's credibility within the medical community, and is also a result of our recognition by Medicare and Medicaid. For questions regarding reimbursement procedures in your State, please contact your State Medicaid agency or Medicare plan contractor, or contact your private insurance plan provider directly.
Q. What is the best way to mix Immunocal bioactive whey protein?
A. Because Immunocal® bioactive whey protein is a very fine and delicate powder, we recommend mixing it with water or any juice or liquid that is not above lukewarm (less than 110 degrees F, and NEVER above 120 degrees F) temperature. First, mix the packet with approx. 1 tablespoon of the liquid you have chosen to form a paste. Second, now pour the liquid to fill your glass. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, stir, and enjoy. It can also be mixed in applesauce, yogurt, or sprinkled over cereal without any particular mixing procedure. The product CANNOT be mixed in a blender (mechanical mixing damages the milk proteins). You must stir by hand, or you can purchase an inexpensive "vortex-mixer".
Q. What is the best way to buy Immunocal bioactive whey protein?
A.The best price for Immunocal is using the Automatic Shipment program. You can cancel at any time without penalty. You can sign up to receive Immunocal bioactive whey protein using your credit card to receive monthly shipments of one or more boxes).
