The biologically active form of Beta-glucan, which contributes to balancing the immune system.
There are two main categories of dietary fiber - soluble and insoluble. The soluble ones dissolve in water and form a thick, gel-like substance. In contrast, insoluble fibers do not dissolve, but absorb liquids as they travel through the digestive tract.
Beta-glucan is a specific form of soluble dietary fiber. It is found in the cell walls of certain types of plants and some yeasts, bacteria, fungi and algae. However, there are also supplements that contain beta-glucan. These fibers have many health benefits, they are recognized for their ability to reduce cholesterol levels, inflammation, and many others. In addition, specialists have conducted a series of studies to verify its effects on heart health. It has also been shown to improve the immune system.
Because it is a soluble fiber, beta-glucan itself cannot be digested, but it has an incredible quality: it slows down the food transit in the intestines. As a result, carbohydrates are absorbed more slowly, which stabilizes the blood sugar level. It also moves slowly through the digestive tract, taking cholesterol with it as it passes through the digestive system.
In addition to the benefits it can have for people suffering from diabetes and hypercholesterolemia, specialists in alternative medicine claim that beta-glucan supplements can be effective in managing the following health disorders:
- rheumatoid arthritis
- Crohn's disease
- ulcerative colitis
- allergies
- fibromyalgia
- asthma
- chronic fatigue syndrome
Beta glucan - benefits on cholesterol
According to a 2011 report, it can help keep cholesterol levels under control. After checking the results of studies carried out in recent years, the authors of the report determined that beta-glucan can significantly reduce the levels of LDL ("bad") cholesterol and total cholesterol. According to researchers, people who consume daily reduce their total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels by 5-7%.
Also, the results of a study conducted in 2014 were similar. The researchers focused on studies in which participants took at least 3 grams (g) of beta-glucan per day. It seems that people who ingested at least 3 grams of beta-glucan daily reduced their total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels. In addition, the levels of HDL (“good”) cholesterol or triglycerides were not influenced by beta-glucan consumption.
Beta-glucan - benefits for people with diabetes
Researchers have conducted studies that concluded that beta-glucan can help manage diabetes. More precisely, it can keep blood glucose (blood sugar) under control, reduce cholesterol and manage blood pressure.
Beta-glucan - benefits in the fight against malignant diseases
There is some preliminary research indicating that foods and supplements containing beta-glucan may activate more cells and proteins that fight cancer. These are T cells and NK (natural killer) cells. What's more, tests were carried out after which it was demonstrated that beta-glucan can inhibit the spread of malignant cells.
Beta-glucan – benefits for immunity
Some studies claim that the immune system can benefit from the consumption of beta-glucan. Researchers have conducted several studies after which they discovered that beta-glucan could help activate immune cells and protect against infections. Specifically, it has been shown that the activity of certain types of immune cells, such as macrophages, neutrophils and monocytes, can be enhanced by beta-glucan.
Furthermore, other studies have been conducted that have shown that beta-glucan can reduce the levels of several markers used to measure inflammation, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF), interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and interleukin -6 (IL-6).
Beta Glucan Benefits
- balancing the immune system, by:
- supporting the activity and differentiation of cells involved in the emergence of the immune response: macrophages, neutrophils and T lymphocytes (promotes the activation of IL-2, TNF-α, nitric oxide and interferon gamma), which act on various disruptive factors
- maintaining the normal process of cell division
- balancing lipid and carbohydrate metabolism by:
- maintaining the normal level of total plasma cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol; offers support in limiting the absorption of lipids from the intestinal level
- supporting the control of normal blood glycemic level and normal blood pressure
Suggested use
Take 1 capsule per day on an empty stomach with a full glass of water or as directed by your qualified healthcare professional.
Warnings
Keep out of the reach of children.
Store in a cool, dry place.