Alkylglycerol: benefits, dosage, contraindications
Other name(s)
AKG, alkyl-Gro
Scientific name(s)
Alkylglycerol
Family or group:
Fatty Acids
Indications
Scoring methodology
EFSA approval.
Sperm produce platelet-activating factor (PAF), and this mediator plays an important role in sperm physiology with respect to capacitation, the acrosome reaction, and gamete fusion. An interesting hypothesis was that alkylglycerols, which are precursors of PAF, could have effects on sperm function. In vivo studies in boars showed that oral intake of shark liver oil (40 g/day, 28 days) improved sperm motility and velocity, as well as increased levels of alkylglycerols in the semen. These data suggest the possibility of improving fertility by oral supplementation with shark liver oil, but these results remain to be confirmed. ✪✪✪✪✪
Claims about the anticancer and immunostimulant properties of shark liver oil supplements are mainly based on in vitro or animal studies. Some authors nevertheless conclude that the alkylglycerols from shark liver oil may be useful as an adjunct to conventional cancer treatments and as a prophylactic. Indeed, one study showed inhibition of tumor growth and a decrease in the number of radiation treatments and of complex lesions when Alkylglycerol was administered before radiation therapy in patients with cervical cancer.
Posologie
Oral administration
600 mg
oil
Synergies
Immune support ✪✪✪✪✪
A study was conducted on 40 very elderly patients scheduled to undergo a surgical procedure who received 500 mg alkylglycerol capsules twice daily for 4 weeks. The results showed that the risk of complications was significantly reduced in the group treated with alkylglycerols. A significant increase in the number of white blood cells and in IgG was observed, as well as a decrease in neutrophils, suggesting protection against infectious risks.
Posologie
Oral administration
1000 mg
oil
Jurassic surgery and immunity enhancement by alkyglycerols of shark liver oil
Multiple Beneficial Health Effects of Natural Alkylglycerols from Shark Liver Oil
[Assessment of the effectiveness of shark liver oil in the treatment of recurrent aphthous stomatitis: clinical and immunological studies].
Properties
Immune stimulant
Alkylglycerols may increase the number of leukocytes and platelets. In clinical studies, shark liver oil appears to modify white blood cell activity and the levels of mediators such as cytokines. A study published by Kantah et al. showed that in mice supplemented orally with alkylglycerols at 2 mg/day/mouse for 3 weeks, the number of lymphocytes increased by almost 40% in the small intestine, as well as their cytokine production.
Usages associés
Anticancer
The anticancer effect of AKG may be due to its ability to activate macrophages and increase the production of cytokines such as IL-12 and IFN-gamma. The recruitment and activation of macrophages are recognized in primary antitumor defense, while IFN-gamma, a T-cell-derived lymphokine, inhibits a large number of malignant cells, either by directly opposing cancer cell growth or through its immunomodulatory properties. Another hypothesis is that tumor cells may be unable to cope with the abnormal accumulation of O-alkyl groups (a form of lipids) in their tissue, which would lead to their destruction.
Usages associés
Safe dosage
Adults 18 years and older: 400 mg - 1500 mg
Shark liver oil, a source of alkylglycerols, is safe when used short-term. It has been used at a dose of 1.5 g once daily for 8 weeks. Furthermore, there is no standardized dose. In clinical research, a shark liver oil–based product was used, formulated in 400 mg capsules each containing 250 mg of shark liver oil, 97 mg of gelatin, 34 mg of glycerol and 19 mg of starch. The shark liver oil in this product was standardized to 38.8% squalene and 43.6% alkylglycerols, with a minimal amount of omega-3 fatty acids.
Precautions
Pregnant women: avoid
Avoid the use of shark liver oil in pregnant women due to a lack of reliable and sufficient information.
Breastfeeding women: avoid
Avoid the use of shark liver oil in breastfeeding women due to a lack of reliable and sufficient information.
Hypercholesterolemia: avoid
Patients with hypercholesterolemia should avoid, or use shark liver oil only in moderation.
