[Study] Kimchi Safely Boosts Human Immune Function

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The research team conducted a follow-up study on 13 obese adult subjects over a period of two weeks. Participants were randomly divided into three groups: the first group consumed naturally fermented kimchi powder, the second group consumed kimchi powder fermented with microbes specifically cultured in a lab, and the third group consumed a placebo powder. The amount of kimchi powder given was equivalent to 30 grams of fresh kimchi dried out.

The team collected blood samples before and after the experiment to analyze the activity of individual immune cells. Results showed that subjects who consumed kimchi powder had increased activity in antigen-presenting cells, which identify pathogens and present antigens. Helper T cells, which receive commands from these antigen-presenting cells, then initiate a response to specific pathogens. Kimchi powder increased gene activity that allows these helper T cells to respond more quickly to targets that trigger an immune response.

On the other hand, kimchi powder only activated antigen-presenting cells and helper T cells, while causing almost no changes in other immune cells. This means it doesn't cause a 'cytokine storm,' where the immune system overreacts and actually harms our health. In short, it suggests kimchi effectively strengthens the immune system without causing excessive inflammation. While both types of kimchi powder were effective, the one made with specially cultured microbes showed a slightly stronger effect.