AHCC is a potent mushroom extract shown by researchers studying immunity to have beneficial properties in causing regression of the viral infection responsible for cervical cancer. Mushrooms have been used for centuries for their immunity-boosting properties. The renowned Greek physician Hippocrates praised mushrooms for their role in lowering inflammation.
Introduction to AHCC
The mycelium of the shiitake mushroom is used to make Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC). AHCC falls into the category of functional foods made using a standardized extract of cultured Lentinula edodes. It is loaded with alpha-glucans and helps regulate the body’s natural immune system, improving its function. It does so by optimizing the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, increasing the activity of macrophages and T cells, promoting cytokine production, and promoting replication and action of dendritic cells. It has often been used in supplements endorsed by famous institutions and hospitals around the world.
What Makes AHCC Special
Nearly 80 percent of all adults in the US have acquired a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection at least once during their lifetime, making it the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI). The low-risk HPV subtypes tend to manifest as cutaneous warts, while their high-risk counterparts leave no trace and can only be diagnosed through examination of swabs. The latter are responsible for causing six different cancers, including cancer of the head and neck and the cervix.
Cervical cancer is a leading cause of death in women, consuming 265,700 lives annually. Accounting for approximately 10% of all cancers, cancers of the cervix are the fourth commonest malignancy in women. This disease has been confirmed to be related to infection by high-risk HPV subtypes.
The human papillomavirus is a naked, double-stranded DNA virus that infects the epithelium of mucosal and cutaneous surfaces. It has been shown to cause verrucae, carcinoma, and malignant lesions. Prolonged infection by high-risk HPV subtypes is one of the risk factors for developing cervical cancer. AHCC supplements for HPV may help fight this virus.
The Relation between HPV infections and AHCC Usage
A US study involving 50 women with cervical cancer showed that AHCC mushroom extract has antiviral properties against HPV. Half of the participants in the study were successful in clearing the infection in three months with AHCC extract supplements. It was predicted that the infection may be cleared within one year in 80% of the women taking AHCC extract. The second phase of this study is placebo-controlled, randomized, and double-blinded. It is currently in progress.
Immunity-boosting Benefits
More than a hundred research papers and over thirty clinical trials indicate that AHCC is effective against HPV. It is different from antibiotics in that it boosts the existing defense mechanisms in the body. This extract may be a savior for women suffering from HPV-related cervical cancer. By boosting the immune system, AHCC can improve energy levels, muscle strength, and cognition. Hence, AHCC is a great addition to everyday diet to enhance overall health.
