A study conducted by Nagasaki University explored the potential of NKG Kefir to mitigate radiation-induced cellular damage, focusing specifically on apoptosis (programmed cell death) in the colon following X-ray exposure.

Study Design

• -Subjects: 7-week-old rats

• -Duration: 12 days of free water intake containing NKG Kefir

• -Control: A separate group of rats with free access to normal water

• -Both groups were subjected to whole-body X-ray irradiation (up to 1 Gy)

• -After 2 hours, colon tissue samples were collected, and apoptotic cells were counted

Key Findings

• -In the group given NKG Kefir, there was a significant suppression of apoptosis in the intestinal crypts following irradiation.

• -Compared to the control group, the NKG Kefir group showed reduced radiation-induced cell death, indicating a protective effect at the cellular level in the gastrointestinal tract.

• -These effects were observed at radiation doses up to 1 Gy, which is a relevant dose range for medical imaging and certain occupational exposures.

Conclusion
This study demonstrates that NKG Kefir may help protect intestinal cells from radiation-induced apoptosis, adding to its potential role as a radioprotective functional food. By reducing cell death in the colon, NKG Kefir could support gastrointestinal resilience in situations involving radiation stress, such as medical treatment, diagnostics, or environmental exposure.