Q & A Page

What is Immunocal?

Immunocal is an all-natural protein derived from milk. It is a specially-prepared whey protein isolate.

If someone is lactose intolerant, can they take Immunocal?

Yes, the lactose in Immunocal is removed during its production. Less than 1% lactose remains and legally the product can be called "lactose-free". It should be noted that being lactose-intolerant is different than having a milk protein allergy (see below).

If someone has a milk allergy, can they take Immunocal?

Most people who claim they have a milk "allergy" are actually not allergic, they are lactose intolerant. If this is the case, they can take Immunocal. If they have a true allergy to milk proteins, they should avoid it. However, the majority of milk protein allergies (80%) are to a protein called "caseine". There is very little caseine in Immunocal (generally less than 1.5%).

What is "whey"?

Whey is a group of proteins found in milk.

What is a whey protein "isolate"?

Whey proteins can be produced in different concentrations. "Regular" whey protein can be anywhere from 20% to 70%. Whey protein "concentrates" are between 70% and 90%. A whey protein "isolate" is over 90% pure protein. Technically this is difficult and expensive to achieve without harming the protein's structure.

Why is a whey protein isolate desirable?

Only isolates have thoroughly removed from them the fat, fat-soluble toxins, water, water-soluble toxins, lactose, and other contaminants from the protein. It is the "purest" form of protein.

There are other whey protein isolates on the market. How is Immunocal different?

• Immunocal is supported with extensive research published in medical journals.

• Immunocal is produced in a special way to preserve the proteins' natural structure so that it retains its profound effect on your cells.

• Immunocal is clinically proven to work in human beings.

• Immunocal appears in the American PDR (Physicians' Desk Reference).

• Immunocal appears in the Canadian CPS (Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties).

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 high heat (pasteurization) and harsh methods of mixing, resulting in a denatured and ineffective product.

What does undenatured mean?

Undenatured means that a protein is not damaged or significantly changed from the way it appears in nature. 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 we recommend that Immunocal not be heated or subject to harsh mixing in order to preserve it bioactivity.

Do other whey protein isolates work?

As a source of amino acids, whey protein has a superior nutritional advantage over other types of protein. All whey protein isolates are a good source of protein. However, there are many other variables that need to be considered in a whey's quality. Most importantly is the degree in which the protein resembles its original form in nature. This is easily altered in the harvesting, manufacturing, packaging, storage and shipping, and quality control of the product. Other whey protein isolates have not been thoroughly tested in clinical trials done on human beings, so it's anybody's guess as to whether they work or not.

What does Immunocal do?

Immunocal is a natural source of the glutathione precursor cysteine for the maintenance of a strong immune system.

How does Immunocal work?

• Immunocal supplies the rare building blocks (precursors) for your cells to make glutathione.

• Immunocal supplies all the essential amino acids required by your cells and tissues.

• Immunocal supplies other peptides (small proteins) critical for many aspects of your health.

What is glutathione?

It is a substance that is produced by your own cells that is fundamental to life. Glutathione plays many roles, the most important of which are:

• It is your body's master antioxidant.

• GSH plays a determinant role in the proper functioning of the immune system.

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Why can't a person just eat glutathione?

Glutathione is broken down by digestion and very little if any can get from your mouth to your cell where it's needed. To raise glutathione effectively, you must give your cells the building blocks (precursors) to make glutathione yourself.

How have the benefits of Immunocal been proven? How do we know it works?

Immunocal has had research performed starting as far back as the late 1970's at McGill University (Canada's foremost Medical School). There continues to be much effort in publishing human clinical trials in respected peer-reviewed medical journals worldwide. These articles are easily available on-line.

What is a "peer-reviewed" journal?

"Peer-reviewed" means that an article is scrutinized and criticized for quality and validity by other doctors and scientists before it can be published. Articles that don't stand up to this scrutiny are rejected. Most submissions are initially rejected. This screens for misguided or inaccurate statements.

How many articles have been published about Immunocal?

This is a moving target that grows every year. As of today, there have been 80+ published research studies appearing in 50+ different medical journals written by 200+ authors & researchers.

What are the "PDR and "CPS"?

The American PDR (Physicians' Desk Reference) and the Canadian CPS (Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties) are published yearly and distributed to all the doctors and pharmacists in the country. It holds all the prescribing information for drugs, however, Immunocal is not a drug. It is one of the rare natural substances that hold a position in these publications.

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There are other whey protein isolates that claim to have research as well. True?

When this "research" is actually examined, usually you will find:

• That they are quoting work done by Dr. Bounous, Kongshavn, Droge or other prominent scientists done on Immunocal. This does not mean that their products work as well.

• They are experiments done in a laboratory or on laboratory animals, not in human beings.

Who can NOT take Immunocal?

• Anyone with a specific allergy to the components.
  This does NOT include lactose. Immunocal contains less than 1% lactose. It is usually tolerated by lactose-intolerant individuals.

• Anyone taking immunosuppressant medication to avoid rejection of an organ transplant.

Always ask your health professional before taking any supplements.

Can pregnant or lactating women take Immunocal?

No adverse effects have been reported. A health care practitioner should be consulted prior to use if the person is pregnant or has reason to believe she is, or if she is breastfeeding.

Can geriatric clients take Immunocal?

Yes, glutathione levels drop with age.

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Are there side effects?

Immunocal is a natural source of protein classified as a Natural Health Product. Gastrointestinal bloating and cramps are possible if the product is not sufficiently rehydrated. Transient urticarial-like skin rash has been reported in rare individuals undergoing severe detoxification reaction. Skin rash abates when the intake is stopped or reduced.

Can you overdose on Immunocal?

There have been no reports of toxicity from overdosing on Immunocal. Glutathione is a tightly regulated intracellular constituent and is limited in its production by negative feedback inhibition of its own synthesis through the enzyme gamma-glutamylcysteine synthetase, thus greatly minimizing any possibility of overdose.

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Are there liquids that CAN NOT be used to mix with Immunocal?

Avoid hot liquids and extremely acidic liquids.

Can I use a blender to mix Immunocal?

Power blenders should generally be avoided. Small, low-speed, hand-held plastic blenders are acceptable.

Can Immunocal be mixed with a spoon or other metal object?

Yes, but it should not be mixed with a high-speed blender as the blades may disrupt the proteins.

How long is Immunocal good for once it has been mixed?

As a general guideline, consume shortly after mixing, preferably within 30 minutes. It is best kept cool while waiting.

Can Immunocal be mixed with milk?

Immunocal can be mixed with milk.
Immunocal Platinum can be mixed with milk but may taste salty or sour in milk.

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When is the best time to take Immunocal?

Most people take Immunocal first thing in the morning or after your body has been fasting for a few hours. This will enhance protein absorption and amino acid utilization. If you are taking multiple pouches per day, these can be taken at separate times.

If I am taking 2 pouches of Immunocal per day, can I take them both at once?

Yes.

Does Immunocal contain any additives?

The product is additive-free; the sole ingredient is whey protein isolate.

Does Immunocal contain any animal products?

Immunocal is completely of dairy origin and does not contain any other animal derived materials.

Does Immunocal contain any Pesticides or Antibiotic?

Immunocal does not contain antibiotics or pesticide residues.

Is there any danger of "Mad Cow Disease" /Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE)?

No. Because of concerns about Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) the cattle are continuously surveyed for evidence of the disease. Immunotec herds also fully participate in the Federal Mammalian Protein Feeding Ban. Feeding the cows with proteins of ruminants is prohibited the United States. Immunocal is certified free of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE).

How should Immunocal be stored?

Immunocal should be stored in a cool dry place to maximize shelf-life and preserve integrity; we suggest temperatures of 70-90°F (21-32°C).

How much raw milk does it take to make Immunocal?

We need 300 liters (79.25 US gallons) of fresh, raw milk to produce 1 kilogram (2.2 lbs.) of Immunocal. It is produced using a gentle process and low temperatures to preserve the biological activity of the proteins.

What is the difference between taking Immunocal as opposed to taking other antioxidants?

Immunocal, as such, is not an antioxidant but provides the building blocks for the synthesis of glutathione, which is the principal intracellular antioxidant.

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