Beta-Glucan (Beta-1,3, and beta-1,6 glucan)

Beta-glucan is derived from baker’s yeast, young rye plants, and some medicinal mushrooms.

Beta-glucan is known to help the immune system fight bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic pathogens by activating key immune cells known as macrophages. Taken before and after surgery, beta-glucan has been shown to help reduce infection. It also appears to enhance the activity of conventional antibiotic therapy. Beta-glucan also acts as a free radical scavenger, removing debris and cells damaged by exposure to radiation, chemotherapy, and environmental pollutants. Beta-glucan is thought to be responsible for the cholesterol-lowering properties of oat bran. Results of several clinical trials using beta-glucan derived from either oats or yeast, suggest that regular, long-term consumption of beta-glucan can lower total cholesterol levels and "bad" LDL cholesterol levels by roughly 10% and 8%, respectively, while raising "good" HDL cholesterol by as much 16%.

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS: Not applicable

Most manufacturers recommend doses ranging between 50 and 1,000 mg. However, doses as high as 15,000 mg per day have been used to lower cholesterol in clinical trials. Not established

SIDE EFFECTS/CONTRAINDICATIONS: None known