EpicDefense

EpicDefense is a once-daily immune support capsule combining two clinically studied probiotic strains, a postbiotic fermentate, and chelated zinc in a formula Microbiome Labs categorizes as an "immunobiotic" — a term used to describe microbial-based ingredients that act specifically on immune pathways rather than primarily on gut microbiome composition. It is intended for adults seeking daily, year-round immune resilience with particular benefit during seasonal challenges. Each capsule provides LGG® (Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG), BB-12® (Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis), EpiCor® dried yeast fermentate (500 mg from Saccharomyces cerevisiae), and zinc as Albion® zinc bisglycinate chelate (10 mg).

Each ingredient in this formula contributes through a distinct immune mechanism. LGG® is one of the most extensively researched probiotic strains in the clinical literature, with documented ability to adhere to intestinal mucus and promote balanced mucosal immune regulation — including IgA secretion at mucosal surfaces, which is the first line of immunological defense. BB-12® is a well-characterized Bifidobacterium strain with published clinical evidence demonstrating increased IgG, IgA, and total antibody concentrations following supplementation. Together, these two strains have been studied in combination and found to reduce the duration and severity of respiratory discomfort in a 12-week randomized controlled trial in 198 adults. EpiCor® is a postbiotic — a dried fermentate of Saccharomyces cerevisiae that contains a broad array of metabolites, beta-glucans, antioxidants, and immune-signaling compounds produced during fermentation — and has been studied specifically for nasal and respiratory comfort in a 12-week placebo-controlled trial that demonstrated improvements in nasal airflow, reduced nasal discharge, and reduced severity and duration of nasal concerns. Zinc bisglycinate in the Albion® chelated form offers superior absorption compared to inorganic zinc salts, and zinc is a well-established cofactor in Natural Killer cell function — a key component of the innate immune response.

The formulation reflects an understanding that robust immune function is generated primarily through the gut. Approximately 70–80% of immune cells reside in the gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT), and the composition of the gut microbiome directly influences systemic immune tone, cytokine signaling, and mucosal barrier defense. By using probiotic strains selected specifically for their immune-modulating properties rather than their gut reconditioning effects, EpicDefense is designed to work through the gut-immune axis to support both local mucosal immunity and systemic immune responses. The addition of EpiCor® as a postbiotic provides immune-active metabolites that act independently of the probiotic strains' colonization, offering an additional mechanism of immune support that functions even in individuals with disrupted microbiomes. The formula is suitable for daily use throughout the year and during periods of heightened immune demand.