Frequently Asked Questions about EpiCor .
What is EpiCor?
Produced by a proprietary natural fermentation process, EpiCor is a unique dietary ingredient consisting of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and metabolites that contain beneficial vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants.
What does EpiCor do?
Cell, animal, and human studies indicate that EpiCor can help maintain a healthy immune system. For example, it increases salivary IgA (part of the first line of defense) and increases the activity of natural killer cells, making them more efficient. It has also been shown to help suppress inappropriate immune responses, thereby balancing the immune system.
What is immune balance?
Immune balance is the "at rest" stage of immune function, the optimal state where the immune system can best react to signals from the body to either boost immune performance when needed, as in the case of bacterial or viral invaders, or to suppress an inappropriate reaction to substances that would naturally be harmless, like pollens.
How does immune balance differ from "immune boosters"?
Immune boosters are substances that stimulate the function of the immune system. However, in the case of some autoimmune disorders, allergies and inflammatory disease the immune system is already overactive and may benefit from suppressing certain immune responses. Immune balance is the "neutral gear" of immune health that allows the body to respond most appropriately to the need to either boost or suppress immune function as needed.
How does EpiCor differ from other immune products? More than just an immune booster, the science surrounding EpiCor shows that EpiCor helps to maintain a balanced immune system to support year-round good immune health. EpiCor is not a single chemical, as are many immune support products on the market, but a complex product comprised of beneficial metabolites together with vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants working together to support immune health. In addition, EpiCor has anti-oxidant properties that further support immune health by scavenging free radicals.
Should EpiCor be taken year-round?
Yes, EpiCor is not a drug to cure disease, but a dietary supplement intended for healthy people to support their immune system. EpiCor appears to be particularly able to support the innate immune system, the body's first line of defense against invading pathogens. EpiCor has also been shown to positively affect allergic and inflammatory responses; hence it is best taken year-round for maximum benefit.
What is the recommended dosage for EpiCor?
While there is no Recommended Daily Intake (RDI) for EpiCor, the current science supporting the product suggests a daily dosage of 500 mg. A single 500 mg capsule taken once daily is recommended for all adults.
Should the dosage of EpiCor be increased at the onset of illness?
At the moment, there is no data to support increasing the dose of EpiCor at the onset of illness. EpiCor is designed to support a healthy immune system so that the body can better defend itself against invading pathogens. EpiCor is a dietary supplement and is not intended to treat or cure illness.
Is EpiCor safe? EpiCor is a fermented product made through a proprietary process using the same microorganism used to make bread. Multiple toxicological studies have been performed to prove the safety of EpiCor. EpiCor has been defined by a panel of independent experts as GRAS (Generally Regarded as Safe).
Can I take EpiCor if I am allergic (or sensitive) to yeast?
Although there are no live yeast cells in EpiCor, you should not take EpiCor if you sense, or if your doctor has indicated, that you should avoid other yeast-based products such a bread, beer, or wine. If unsure, consult your health care practitioner before beginning any supplement program.
Can EpiCor be taken with prescription and over-the-counter drugs?
EpiCor does not affect drug-metabolizing enzymes, which indicates that interaction is unlikely between EpiCor and over-the-counter and prescription drugs. However, consultation with a physician is recommended before beginning any supplement program.
Is EpiCor to be taken with meals or between meals?
Either way is suitable and should be left to the individual as to which is best tolerated. Can EpiCor cause or worsen a yeast infection? There is no similarity between Saccharomyces cerevisiae, found abundantly in the food supply and in the air, and Candida albicans, an opportunistic yeast strain that proliferates in individuals with compromised immune systems.
Taken from "EpiCor, The Key to a Balanced Immune System" by Robinson, Cherewatenko and Reeves, 2009. EpiCor is a registered trademark of Embria Health Sciences, LLC.
