Examples of Substances Beneficial for NK Cell Activity

Examples of Substances Beneficial for NK Cell Activity

Many immune-boosting substances are known to activate NK cells, thereby enhancing immunity.

Vitamins

After two weeks of taking high doses of vitamin E, individuals suffering from colon cancer showed an increase in NK cell activity.
(Source: Cancer Immunology, Immunotherapy, 2007)

 

Black Garlic

Black garlic improved the NK cell activity in individuals with inoperable rectal cancer, liver cancer, and pancreatic cancer.
(Source: Journal of Nutrition, 2006)

 

Zinc

In about 65% of individuals with laryngeal cancer who exhibited zinc deficiency, a decrease in NK cell activity was observed.
(Source: Nutrition and Cancer, 2009)

 

Mushroom Extracts

In cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy, continuous intake of mushroom extracts was observed to consistently enhance NK cell activity.
(Source: Townsend Letter for Doctors & Patients, 2005)

 

Selenium

Selenium regulates the redox balance within cells, activates NK cells, and adjusts resistance to viral infections.
(Source: Nutrition & Dietetics, 2008)

 

Ginseng

In chronic fatigue patients, AIDS patients, and healthy individuals, the NK cell toxicity and ADCC test results showed increased activity in all three groups after taking ginseng compared to before.
(Source: Immunopharmacology, 1997)