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Glandulars

Also known as: Glandulars, Desiccated Glandular Extracts, Organ Extracts, Glandular Supplements, Glandular Extracts

Overview

Glandular supplements are derived from desiccated animal glands, typically bovine or ovine, and are intended to provide the body with glandular tissue components such as enzymes, peptides, and hormones. These supplements are traditionally used to support the function of specific glands like the adrenal, thyroid, and thymus, as well as to enhance immune function and address enzyme deficiencies. Glandulars contain bioactive peptides and enzymes, and some may contain small amounts of hormones. While the oral bioavailability of intact peptides is limited, some absorption does occur. Research on glandular supplements is limited, with most evidence being anecdotal or derived from small studies. There are no large-scale systematic reviews specifically evaluating glandular supplements as a class, and the overall quality of available evidence is sparse.

Benefits

Evidence supporting the benefits of glandular supplements is limited and mostly indirect. Some studies suggest that oral pancreatic glandular supplementation can improve enzyme and growth levels in children following pancreatic surgery. Bovine glandulars have been suggested to support thyroid function and immune response in specific contexts. Thymic glandulars may enhance immune response in individuals with HIV. Oral enzyme supplementation may be beneficial for individuals with enzyme deficiencies. However, the effect sizes and clinical significance of these benefits are not well quantified due to the lack of rigorous clinical trials. Potential benefits are primarily observed in individuals with glandular insufficiencies or specific diseases, such as pancreatic enzyme insufficiency, thyroid disorders, or immune compromise.

How it works

Glandular supplements are believed to work by providing glandular peptides, enzymes, and hormones that supplement deficient endogenous production or support anabolic/catabolic processes. They may influence endocrine glands, the immune system (via thymic hormones), and digestive enzyme activity. The primary biological pathways involve the provision of these glandular components, which then interact with hormone receptors, enzyme substrates, and immune cells. Approximately 5-10% of glandular peptides may be absorbed intact in the small intestine, and some enzymes may survive gastric digestion, potentially enhancing their bioavailability.

Side effects

Glandular supplements are generally considered safe when taken orally in typical supplement doses, but comprehensive safety data are limited. Common side effects are not well documented but are likely minimal. Uncommon and rare side effects are largely unknown, although there is a theoretical potential for immune reactions or hormone-related effects. Drug interactions are also not well-defined, but potential interactions with hormone therapies or immunomodulators should be considered. Adrenal glandulars are not recommended due to the risk of suppressing the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. Caution is advised in patients with hormone-sensitive conditions or autoimmune diseases.

Dosage

There are no established minimum effective, optimal, or maximum safe doses for glandular supplements. Evidence-based recommendations for timing considerations are also lacking. Glandulars are typically available in oral capsules or powders. Peptide absorption is limited but present, and gastric protection may enhance bioavailability. There are no established required cofactors for glandular supplement use. Due to the lack of established safety and efficacy data, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using glandular supplements.

FAQs

Are glandular supplements effective?

Evidence is limited and inconclusive. Anecdotal reports and small studies suggest potential benefits in specific conditions, but more rigorous research is needed.

Are glandulars safe?

Generally considered safe orally, but comprehensive safety data are lacking. Adrenal glandulars may suppress endogenous hormone axes, so caution is advised.

When should glandulars be taken?

There are no evidence-based timing recommendations for taking glandular supplements. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Are glandulars better than herbs?

Glandulars contain enzymes identical to human enzymes, which herbs rarely do, potentially offering unique benefits in specific enzyme deficiencies.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29018060/ – This study investigates the effects of a multi-ingredient supplement on osteoarthritis symptoms. While it doesn't focus on glandulars directly, it highlights the importance of rigorous research in the supplement field, a standard that is currently lacking for most glandular products.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/endocrinology/articles/10.3389/fendo.2024.1445878/full – This review discusses the challenges in diagnosing and managing autoimmune thyroiditis. It does not mention glandulars, but it provides context on thyroid health, an area where some glandular supplements are marketed, emphasizing the need for evidence-based approaches.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/17/6/981 – This study examines the effects of a nutritional intervention on Hashimoto's thyroiditis. While it doesn't directly address glandulars, it underscores the potential role of nutrition in thyroid health, a condition for which some glandular supplements are promoted.
https://www.va.gov/WHOLEHEALTHLIBRARY/tools/adrenals.asp – This resource from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides information on adrenal fatigue and related conditions. It cautions against the use of adrenal glandulars due to the risk of suppressing the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, highlighting a potential safety concern.
https://doctorsresearch.com/fr-products/2759/the-truth-about-glandulars-in-nutritional-supplements/ – This article discusses the use of glandulars in nutritional supplements, highlighting their potential benefits and mechanisms of action. It emphasizes that glandulars contain enzymes identical to human enzymes, which herbs rarely do, potentially offering unique benefits.
– Howell et al. reported that oral pancreatic enzyme supplementation improved enzyme levels and growth in children post-pancreaticoduodenectomy, indicating some bioavailability and clinical effect of glandular enzymes. This was a clinical study with a clear outcome but limited sample size.
– Schulof et al. found thymic glandular hormones may enhance immune response in HIV patients, suggesting immune benefits of thymus extracts. This study was limited in scope and sample size.