This review will take a closer look at NurtiFeron. It is an immune system boosting supplement offered by Shaklee that is designed to increase your body’s own production of interferon.

According to Wikipedia, interferons are proteins produced and released by host cells in response to the presence of pathogens, such as viruses, bacteria or parasites, or tumor cells. They allow communication between cells to trigger the protective defenses of the immune system that eradicate pathogens or tumors. Interferons have other functions: they activate immune cells, such as natural killer cells and macrophages; increase recognition of infection or tumor cells by upregulating antigen presentation to T lymphocytes; and increase the ability of uninfected host cells to resist new virus infections. Certain host symptoms, such as muscle pain and fever, are related to interferon production during infection.

In 1954, world-renowned immunologist Dr. Yasuhiko Kojima first discovered interferon. After 40 years of research, testing hundreds of natural compounds, he developed a unique combination of four powerful plant extracts that increases the body’s natural production of interferon. He named it NutriFeron and it is the only dietary supplement available in the US created by the man who discovered interferon. NutriFeron is exclusive to Shaklee.

Interferons and EBV

Production of interferon, the natural virus fighter, is reduced in fatigued athletes, but can be restored to normal levels with a “probiotic” pill that contains the beneficial microbe Lactobacillus acidophilus. The drop in interferon levels may play a role in the faulty immune response against Epstein Barr virus (EBV), previously described in fatigued athletes. Most people have been infected with EBV; it can cause a number of diseases, including mononucleosis, and has been linked to chronic fatigue syndrome. However, interferon usually controls the virus. The researchers tested EBV in 24 saliva samples taken from eight fatigued athletes before and after receiving a 1-month course of the probiotic capsules. In addition, interferon levels were measured in blood samples. Before treatment, five of the subjects had EBV in their saliva, that is, they were shedding the virus because it was not being controlled; after probiotic treatment, only one showed signs of virus clearance. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 2006.

Interferon for MS and Cancer Patients

Studies are currently underway on how interferon supplements may benefit patients with multiple sclerosis and cancer. At this time I found nothing conclusive, but I will continue to read the latest research. I read that it is being used, but it seems like every case is different, so I can’t say conclusively that it works for everyone. Talking with your doctor can help you decide if it will work in your situation.

After all my reading, I found that most people use NutriFeron to boost their immunity and better fight the common cold, gastroenteritis, and the side effects of PMS and menopause. Do your research and see if NutriFeron can be of benefit to you or someone you love!