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In many parts of the world, seaweed is not a regular part of the daily diet. In fact, there are many people who
would not even consider eating seaweed. However, with Agel UMI, the exceptional health benefits of this oceanic
treasure are now available to the masses. So, what is it about the brown seaweed that is so extraordinary? Through
extensive research, scientists have identified a complex sulfated polysaccharide, called fucoidan as the active
ingredient. Its primary makeup consists of an essential sugar called fucose along with other elements such as
xylose, mannose, and galactose, and glucose. Studies consistently show that fucoidan possesses a wide range of
properties beneficial to maintaining optimal health.
One of the primary ways in which Fucoidan provides a vast array of health benefits is its ability to interact
with, and modulate the immune system. Several studies have identified many of the immune modulating effects of
Fucoidan. The ability of a substance to modulate the immune system is an extremely useful property. Modulation is a
term used to describe the process of reducing the extremes of cellular activity &mash; either stimulation or
inhibition. Immune modulating substances have the ability to increase immune function when it is depressed, and
also to reduce it when it is over-stimulated.
Most immune modulating agents work by improving inter-cellular communication. One way cells interact and
communicate is by presenting glycoproteins on their surface. Glycoproteins are complex information-rich
macromolecules composed of a protein core to which is bound arrays of linked chains of sugars (polysaccharides).
The structures of the polysaccharides vary and therefore relay different codes for different messages. For example,
one message might tell a cell to secrete a specific cellular product, and another message might tell a cell when to
divide. Other cells have corresponding glycoprotein receptor molecules, which can then read these messages and
respond accordingly. Thus, our bodies are involved in a very sophisticated and harmonious intercellular
communication all the time.
The immune system depends heavily on this kind of communication to co-ordinate cellular defense, apoptosis, cell
attack and repair processes. When any of the range of individual saccharides required to build competent
glycoproteins (and thereby convey an accurate message) are missing, the quality of that communication is
compromised. It has been shown that dietary supply of certain saccharides improves the integrity of glycoprotein
production. Fucoidans provide an abundant supply of Fucose, one of the necessary saccharides, and smaller amounts
of several other required sugars. This is likely to be one mechanism by which the fucoidans exert their
immunomodulatory effect.
Now, with this understanding of glycoprotiens, and intercellular communication, let’s specifically identify the
ways in which Fucoidan has been shown to be of significant benefit for health and wellness.
Regenerate Cells
Much of the research that has been done on fucoidan has been focused on its ability to regenerate cells. Studies
have shown that fucoidan helps support mobilization of stem cells that enable the body to replace dead cells
thereby enabling tissue and organ regeneration. In addition, fucoidan helps slow symptoms of the aging process. In
study after study, fucoidan has shown itself to be beneficial in the fight for a long, healthy life.
Support the Circulatory System & Health Functions
Fucoidan has also been shown to help maintain healthy blood flow and cardiac functions, thereby supporting the
circulatory system. Increased blood flow helps all of our organs work more efficiently and helps us to feel better
and healthier.8 Efficient functioning of our vital organs can help us reduce the effects of “wear and tear” of the
normal aging process. Additionally, one study suggested that fucoidan helps to slow the absorption rate of glucose,
or sugar, into the blood stream. A slower absorption rate help to maintain a more regulated blood sugar level and
minimize the damage potentially caused by high blood sugar levels.
Maintain Existing Normal Cholesterol Levels
The process of cholesterol formation occurs in the liver. Our bodies produce a “good” cholesterol (HDL) and a “bad”
cholesterol (LDL). Optimum health is achieved when we can maintain LDLs and HDLs already in the normal range. There
is some evidence to suggest that fucoidan can help us to maintain existing healthy levels of cholesterol by
influencing the metabolic activity in the liver where fatty acids are processed.
Help Support Healthy Joint Functions
For many of us in the United States and throughout the world, maintaining healthy joints and cartilage are daily
concerns. Among its many properties, fucoidan has been hailed as a natural answer to joint health. Fucoidan
supports proper joint functions and cartilage health by modulating some of our body’s processes.
Assist in Inducing the Elimination of Harmful Cells
Fucoidan may also prove helpful in eliminating harmful cells. This is accomplished through a process called
apoptosis. Apoptosis is technical term for the programmed process of a cell “bursting” and therefore dying.
Sulphated polysaccharides like fucoidan have been shown to assist in inducing appropriate programmed apoptosis,
which is a natural process where living organisms eliminate harmful cells and render the genetic blueprint (DNA) of
harmful cells useless.
Help Maintain a Strong Immune System
Fucoidan supports the immune system in a number of different ways. Some research suggests that it may cause an
increase in the number of circulating mature white blood cells in the body, which are an integral part of the
body’s natural immune system.17 The findings from other studies suggest that fucoidan supports the immune system by
improving phagocytosis and activating other important immune responses.
Promotes Optimal Gastrointestinal Health
The number of people concerned with maintaining gastrointestinal health is rapidly increasing around the world as
more and more people are consuming foods with more fat content and less dietary fiber. Once in the gastrointestinal
tract, fucoidan attaches to the lining where it has a protective effect. In addition, it stimulates the gut lining
to “self-repair” tissue. Fucoidan, because of its immune promoting activity, is a tremendous aid in maintaining
proper gastrointestinal function and health.
Increase Energy & Support Respiratory Functions
Fucoidan supports immunological abilities by assisting the body in the production of interferon-Y and
interleukin-12, two important immune system components, while supporting normal respiratory functions.
Detoxify the Body and Help Rid The Body of Free Radicals
The deleterious effect of free radicals on our bodies is well documented. The beneficial effect of antioxidants in
helping to neutralize the oxidative stresses placed upon our organs and metabolic processes is also very clear.
Fucoidan has a long list of health and wellness properties, not the least of which is that it is also a potent
antioxidant.
Promotes Kidney Health
The kidneys serve as the “waste disposal system” for our bodies. Therefore, the proper function of our kidneys is
vital to our overall health and wellbeing. There are numerous studies in the literature to suggest that fucoidan
may play a significant roll in maintaining optimal kidney function.
Supports Vibrant Health & Vitality
The literature is plentiful supporting the fact that fucoidan is a valuable resource for maintaining optimal
health. The brown algae harvested from the earth’s ocean are truly one of the most valuable gifts of the great
deep. And Agel has harnessed this power into a single gelceutical&mash;UMI.
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