These sugars are a source of endless fascination for me. We know that Fucose or Fucoidans are one of the key labels for cancer cells but i’ve just seen that they are also implicated in the fight against heart diseas, anti viral activity and generally immune response.
Study of fucoidan’s anti-viral and anti-bacterial activity could also mean it has therapeutic value for preventing heart disease by bolstering immunity. If, as some research suggests, C-reactive protein (CRP) is elevated from viral or bacterial activity, prevention of such an invasion could enhance our ability to lower our cardiovascular disease risk.
Researchers at the University of Alabama at Birmingham are assessing whether there is a possible connection between Helicobacter pylori, the bacteria known to cause stomach ulcers. The bacterial infection is thought to be a precursor to gastric cancer and heart disease. The study, which will look at H. pylori and the incidence of heart disease in African-Americans, should have implications for the population at large.
Scientists have found that fucoidan inhibits the adhesion of H. pylori in the gut, again, giving it a potential role in cardiovascular-disease prevention. In studies, fucoidan’s anti-viral activity was shown to be effective against herpes simplex and HIV.
More later
paul barton
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UK +44 (0) 1752 769090
michael said...
1Hi Paul, interesting article. I am not too familiar with the way America operates however, you will I am sure be aware of the ongoing battle here in the UK and of course Europe which is heavily influenced by the EU. The UK has a long standing history using complementary medicne and is a much preferd practice by many thousands of folk throughout the UK. Do we have a similar alliance for natural health and do you have an address.
09/5/07 12:25 AM | Comment Link