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

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

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.

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.

Glutathione is an essential component of your cells, with low glutathione levels, cells cannot perform many of their functions properly. Although glutathione functions in dozens of roles in our metabolism, the major functions can be summarized in four areas:

1. It is the major antioxidant produced by the body. Antioxidants such as vitamins C or E cannot be made by your body and in fact could not work properly if glutathione were not present.
2. Our immune systems depend on a steady supply of glutathione. Without it, our immune defenses become weakened.
3. It is important in detoxifying many substances including heavy metals, breakdown products of cigarettes and automobile exhaust, many cancer-causing agents, and a multitude of pollutants and toxins we encounter on a daily basis.
4. The major source of energy produced in our cells is derived from tiny structures called mitochondria. These mitochondria would literally burn up without the presence of glutathione.

Every day our bodies are exposed to factors that drain our levels of glutathione: Stress, pollution, radiation, infection, drugs, poor diet, aging, injury and fatigue. These all contribute to glutathione depletion which, in turn can lead to cellular aging & disease.

Some pharmaceutical drugs such as N-acetyl-cysteine (NAC)have been developed to provide these precursors but there are also natural ways to raise glutathione levels. Vitamin C, E and selenium indirectly support glutathione function. Milk thistle (silymarin), alpha-lipoic acid and L-cysteine may have moderate effects. However, medical research indicates that the most effective natural way to raise glutathione is by feeding the individual specific cysteine and cystine-rich proteins as found in undenatured whey protein isolates. Through its unique formulation and proprietary manufacturing process, Immunocal is a nutraceutical containing undenatured whey proteins designed to raise glutathione. This type of natural approach to addressing health concerns is a welcome complement to conventional medicine, which has historically marginalized nutritional therapy. The key in bridging this gap between traditional medicine and natural medicine lies in appropriately formulating supplements based on solid research.

Optimal glutathione levels are important for everyone. Although you are hopefully in good health right now, glutathione levels fall as we age, and are lowered by a great number of very common illnesses. There is a constant demand for glutathione in our daily life; stress, pollution and infectious disease are all causes of glutathione depletion. For those that exercise regularly, glutathione is especially important to replenish to avoid injury, improve recovery time and keep your immune system strong.

Whey is a group of proteins found in milk.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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.

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

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 available on this site.

"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.

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.

Immunocal is listed in the Physicians’ Desk Reference. In Canada, it is listed in the Compendium of Pharmaceuticals and Specialties (CPS).

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).

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%).

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.

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.

Yes, glutathione levels drop with age.

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.

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.

There have been no known harmful side effects of using Immunocal or any other Immunotec product while on medications. However, to be safe, it is suggested to consult with your physician if you have any questions.

Pediatric Immunocal dose by approximate weight of child
Weight (lbs)	Weight (kg)	Dose (pouch)	Dose (g)	Dose (ml)	Dose (Tbs)	Dose (Tsp)
10	5	1/4	2.5	10		2
15	7		3.5	15	1	3
20	10	1/2	5	20		4
25	12		6	25		5
35	15	3/4	7.5	30	2	6
40	17		8.5	35		7
45	20	1	10	40	2.5	7.5

Avoid hot liquids and extremely acidic liquids.

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

The proteins in Immunocal are very fragile. Do not heat this product or add it to hot liquids. Do not use a high-powered blender to mix. Heat and severe mechanical action will break down the protein and diminish the usefulness of the product.

Immunocal is a dehydrated powder. It must be rehydrated with liquids before use. If left standing too long after mixing, the usefulness of the product may be reduced. It is generally recommended to consume the product within 30 minutes of mixing. Special low-speed blenders or mixing cups can be made available through Immunotec Inc.’s distribution networks.

Using the Immunotec hand mixer:

• Fill a glass or container with 180-240 ml (6-8 oz) of your favorite juice or liquid*. Add Immunocal - you'll find it easiest to first squeeze the pouch to fit the container - and mix until blended.

Using the Immunotec shaker:

• Pour 60 ml (2 oz) of liquid to the fill line. Add 1-2 pouches of Immunocal. Seal and shake for 10-15 seconds. Add more liquid and drink immediately.

Or choose an alternative method that suits your personal preferences and lifestyle:

• Empty one pouch of product into a small container, add 2 tablespoons of your favorite juice or liquid and make a gravy-like paste. Add 180-240 ml (6-8 oz) of juice or liquid, stir and drink.
• Add the product to applesauce or yogurt.

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

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

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.

Yes.

There are thirty (30) packages of Immunocal in every box. This is the same for Immunocal or Immunocal Platinum.

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

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

Immunocal does not contain antibiotics or pesticide residues.

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).

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).

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.

Immunocal has been Immunotec’s flagship product for years. Immunocals’ action is based on the benefits of raising glutathione. The wealth of research on glutathione and the aging process speaks for itself. What is it about the “Platinum” formulation that takes this a step further? Let’s examine this closer.

The major impact on your health that Immunocal bestows is by providing the building blocks or “precursors” for your cells to be able to make glutathione. This is a technology that we continue to refine. In the development of Immunocal Platinum, we have looked very carefully both at protein metabolism and at potential components of whey proteins that relate to aging. Two separate formulations have been added to Immunocal – CMP™* and RMF.

CMP (Cytokine Modulating Peptides)

Cytokines are little molecules that the immune system uses to regulate inflammation. Inflammation plays a role not only in issues like aches and pains, but also in cardiovascular and neurological health. Inflammation has been pointed to as one of the key factors driving the aging process. What CMP does, is “turn down the volume” on these cytokines.

*CMP is a trademark of Glanbia LLC.

RMF (Redox Modulating Formula)

RMF is an exclusive development from Immunotec’s research and development team mastered by Dr. Wulf Dröge. The major objective here was to decrease the amount of acid formed in the body (important to the kidneys), and as a second benefit, reduces the amount of calcium lost (important in bone health).

Who should take Platinum?

Although it was initially developed with the “Baby-Boomers” and geriatric populations in mind, it became clear that there were benefits for overweight individuals, athletic individuals, people with circulation challenges and others. Certainly, Immunocal has proven benefits for all these groups, but Platinum represents the next generation in immune enhancement. The recommended serving size is unchanged from Immunocal and it can be combined with Immunocal as desired.

Turn a triple into a HOME RUN!

Immunocal Platinum provides a triple action on your immune health – Raising glutathione represents Preventative immunity, the cytokine modulating proteins representing Reparative Immunity. Attention to the proper acid-base balance helps lead to Sustained Immunity. Turn this triple into a homer by topping it off with the other supplements your health professional may recommend to you!

Immunocal naturally boosts glutathione levels in the human cell, helping the immune system to perform at optimal levels. The Platinum product contains the same glutathione-enhancing ingredients as Immunocal, but was designed specifically for baby boomers. Among its many features, Immunocal Platinum works with the body to repair damaged cells and to improve mood, energy, well-being, alertness, concentration and clarity, all important to the maturing population. It also helps maintain proper muscle function and maintain bone health by reducing calcium loss.