Kimchi’s immune-boosting power backed by groundbreaking research – Muscle & Fitness

Seasonal illnesses like the flu or colds not only force us to miss work days, but they can also derail workouts and other fitness activities. While kimchi has long been praised for its benefits for digestion and gut health, its effects on immunity have been much less known until now. A groundbreaking study published by npj Science of Food, has found that kimchi not only helps in the fight against diseases, but also prevents overreactions. “Our research has proven for the first time in the world that kimchi has two different simultaneous effects: activating defense cells and suppressing excessive responses.” explained the study leader, Dr. Woo Jae Lee of the World Institute of Kimchi.

What is Kimchi?

Kimchi, a traditional Korean dish, is made from fermented vegetables, often with cabbage and radishes, and seasoned with chili powder, garlic, ginger and salt. Before the experiment it was dehydrated and served as a fine powder.

How was the research conducted?

Overweight adults were divided into three groups:

• Placebo group
• Kimchi Powder (Naturally Fermented) Group
• Kimchi powder (produced using the starter culture fermentation method) Group

Participants stayed with their groups for 12 weeks before researchers collected blood cells using a special method that also allowed them to monitor changes in gene activity.

What has the new Kimchi study yielded?

Kimchi consumption, regardless of the fermentation method, has been shown to improve immunity in cells by increasing the connectivity and strength of the signaling networks between monocytes (white blood cells), dendritic cells (immune cells) and innate B cells (the body’s rapid response to infections).

The findings also showed that those who consumed kimchi got a boost in their APC cells, which play a key role in detecting bacteria and viruses. Other cells were also better able to regulate the protective response thanks to kimchi consumption. Thus, the data confirms that kimchi is a functional food with scientifically proven immune benefits. And experts now believe these benefits could extend beyond our dinner table, even going so far as to suggest the Korean wonder drug could play a role in improving future vaccines.