BETA GLUCAN
Articles by a Naturopathic Doctor ( N.D.)

What are they? Beta glucans are a group of polysaccharides found in many plants...

Some common food sources of beta glucan include the bran of some cereal grains, including oats, wheat, and barley. It can also be derived from medicinal mushrooms and some yeasts. Beta glucan can be classified as a soluble or insoluble fibre, and varies in terms of viscosity and mass, depending on the source.

Therapeutic Effects
As many fibres can, studies have shown that beta glucan can modestly improve cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure and regulate blood sugar levels. In regards to cholesterol specifically, studies have shown beta glucans to be effective in lowering both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol.

They have also been shown to have some immune activating properties, specifically in terms of gut mediated immune activity or GALT (gut associated lymphoid tissue). As an immunostimulant, beta glucan has been used for the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome, physical and emotional stress and as an adjunct to chemo/radiation therapy in cancer. One specific beta glucan, called lentinan, when used alongside chemotherapy was shown to prolong the lives of patients with gastric cancer. PGG glucan, another specific beta glucan, has also been shown to have effective infection fighting properties.

Although more research needs to be done in this area, given its immune stimulating properties, beta glucan may also have a role int the treatment of HIV/AIDS. Many studies have also confirmed the effectiveness of beta glucan in terms of blood sugar regulation. Yeast derived beta glucans have also been implicated in the treatment of both allergic rhinitis and arthritis, although more studies are needed to confirm effectiveness and dosage.

Dosage
As it is found in many grains/cereal products, beta glucan can be taken as food, or in a more potent supplement form. It can be found alone or as part of an immune supporting (especially fungal beta glucans) or cholesterol lowering combination product. For the treatment of hyperlipidemia, a dosage of 3-16 g has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol. Considerably higher doses have been used in studies to promote better blood sugar control.

Safety Information
Both yeast and fungal beta glucans are considered to be well tolerated with little to no side effects associated with their use. Do not co administer with aspirin or non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as this combination has been shown to cause severe gastrointestinal damage. As with any fibre, do not take any other medications or supplements with a beta glucan supplement, as it will reduce transit time and can alter the effect the medication/supplement has on the body. Beta glucan supplementation is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to lack of available scientific evidence.