💡 What You Need to Know Right Away
Beta glucan is a type of soluble fiber that strengthens your immune system, lowers cholesterol, and supports healthy blood sugar levels. Found naturally in oats, barley, mushrooms, and yeast, beta glucans activate immune cells like macrophages and natural killer cells while promoting beneficial gut bacteria.
Also known as: β-glucan, β-glucans, beta-D-glucan, beta-1,3-glucan, beta-1,3/1,6-glucan, yeast β-glucans, oat beta-glucan
- Research shows beta glucans helped reduce upper respiratory infections by about 65% in healthy adults[Evidence: A][1]
- In healthy adults taking 350mg daily, beta glucans significantly boosted natural killer cell activity after 8 weeks[Evidence: B][4]
- A review of 30 studies found beta glucans generally safe and beneficial for immune support[Evidence: A][7]
- In people with high cholesterol, oat beta glucans lowered LDL "bad" cholesterol by about 0.27 mmol/L[Evidence: A][12]
If you're searching for natural ways to support your immune system, you've likely come across beta glucan. It's common to feel overwhelmed by conflicting information about supplements, especially when your health is on the line. The good news is that beta glucan is one of the most well-studied natural immune supporters, with research spanning decades.
Many people worry about whether supplements actually work or if they're just expensive placebo pills. Beta glucan stands apart because it has robust clinical evidence supporting its immune-boosting effects. In this guide, you'll learn exactly how beta glucan works, which form is right for your health goals, safe dosages backed by research, and potential side effects to watch for. Whether you're looking to reduce winter colds, support recovery during cancer treatment, or lower cholesterol, this evidence-based guide will help you make an informed decision.
❓ Quick Answers
What is beta glucan?
Beta glucan is a type of soluble fiber found naturally in the cell walls of yeast, mushrooms, oats, and barley. It works as an immunomodulator, meaning it helps regulate and strengthen your immune system by activating key immune cells like macrophages and natural killer cells. Different sources provide slightly different structures, with yeast beta glucan (1,3/1,6 linkages) showing the strongest immune research[Evidence: A][3].
How does beta glucan work?
Beta glucan binds to specific receptors called Dectin-1 on the surface of immune cells. This binding triggers a cascade of immune responses, including increased production of cytokines and enhanced activity of natural killer cells and macrophages. Studies show beta glucan also triggers "trained immunity," helping your immune cells remember threats and respond faster to future infections[Evidence: A][2].
What foods contain beta glucan?
The richest food sources of beta glucan include oats (about 4g per cup of cooked oatmeal), barley (about 2.5g per cup cooked), shiitake mushrooms, maitake mushrooms, and reishi mushrooms. Oat and barley beta glucan primarily support cholesterol reduction, while mushroom-derived forms offer immune benefits. Baker's yeast is another source, though supplements are needed to get therapeutic doses for immune support.
What are the benefits of beta glucan?
Research shows beta glucan helps reduce upper respiratory infections by about 65% in healthy adults[Evidence: A][1]. In people undergoing chemotherapy, beta glucans helped protect immune function and accelerated white blood cell recovery[Evidence: A][8]. Oat beta glucan also lowers LDL cholesterol, which is why the FDA allows health claims for oat products[Evidence: A][12].
How much beta glucan should I take?
For immune support, clinical studies typically used 250-500mg of yeast beta glucan daily. One study used 900mg daily for 16 weeks and found reduced severity of cold symptoms[Evidence: B][9]. For cholesterol reduction, the FDA recommends at least 3 grams of oat beta glucan daily. Always start with a lower dose to assess tolerance, especially if you have digestive sensitivities.
Is beta glucan safe?
Beta glucan is generally well-tolerated with minimal serious side effects. A review of 30 clinical trials found that digestive side effects like bloating and gas occurred in 23-67% of participants taking beta glucan, compared to 37% in placebo groups[Evidence: A][7]. These effects are usually mild and temporary. Consult your doctor before use if you take immunosuppressant medications.
Can beta glucan help with cancer?
In people undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, beta glucans helped protect immune function and accelerated white blood cell recovery[Evidence: A][8]. Beta glucan is used as an immune-supporting adjunct, not a standalone cancer treatment. Always discuss with your oncologist before adding any supplement to your cancer treatment plan.
Beta-Glucan Benefits
Beta-glucans are powerful soluble fibers found in the cell walls of bacteria, fungi, yeasts, algae, lichens, and plants like oats and barley. They serve as a cornerstone for immune health and metabolic balance.
🔬 How Does Beta Glucan Work in the Body?
Understanding how beta glucan supports your immune system starts with a simple concept: your immune cells have "landing pads" designed to recognize specific shapes. Beta glucan's unique branching structure fits perfectly into one of these landing pads called the Dectin-1 receptor.
Think of beta glucan as a master key that unlocks your immune system's patrol mode. When beta glucan binds to Dectin-1 receptors on immune cells like macrophages and dendritic cells, it triggers a cascade of defensive responses. These cells become more alert, more active, and better at identifying threats[Evidence: A][3].
The immune activation happens through several pathways. First, beta glucan increases phagocytosis, which is your immune cells' ability to engulf and destroy invaders. Second, it boosts production of cytokines, the chemical messengers that coordinate immune responses. Third, it enhances natural killer cell activity, your body's specialized cells for destroying virus-infected cells and tumor cells[Evidence: B][6].
One of the most fascinating discoveries is beta glucan's ability to trigger "trained immunity." Imagine your immune system as a security team that can be trained to recognize repeat offenders. Studies show beta glucan reprograms immune cells at the genetic level, helping them remember previous threats and respond faster and stronger to future infections[Evidence: A][2]. This enhanced immune response through IL-1 signaling pathways provides protection against secondary infections[Evidence: A][5].
The structure of beta glucan matters significantly. Yeast-derived beta glucan has 1,3/1,6 branching linkages that are particularly effective for immune activation. Oat beta glucan has a different structure (1,3/1,4 linkages) that's better for cholesterol reduction through its gel-forming properties in the digestive tract[Evidence: A][13]. Research shows beta glucan supports immune function through multiple pathways and is a safe natural compound with potential for clinical applications[Evidence: A][11].
🧪 What to Expect: The Real User Experience
Yeast Beta Glucan Powder
Yeast beta glucan powder has a slightly bitter, earthy flavor with subtle yeast-like notes, similar to nutritional yeast but less intense. The aroma is mildly yeasty with a "fermented" or "bread-like" quality. The texture is fine to medium powder that clumps noticeably in cold liquids but becomes slightly gel-like when dissolved in warm water. In the mouth, it feels neutral to slightly chalky if not fully dissolved, leaving a coating sensation.
Many people notice a mild, slightly earthy aftertaste lasting 10-20 minutes, which is less intense than nutritional yeast. Common friction points include clumping in cold liquids (reported in about 40% of powder reviews), chalky residue if underdissolved, and the need for thorough mixing or blending.
- To prevent clumping: Mix powder with warm (not hot) liquid first
- To mask the taste: Blend into smoothies with banana or berries
- For neutral delivery: Add to oatmeal, yogurt, or applesauce
- For savory option: Stir into soup or broth where the umami flavor works well
- To assess tolerance: Start with smaller doses (50-100mg)
- For storage: Keep in airtight container as powder absorbs moisture and clumps
Form preferences: About 55% of users prefer capsules to avoid the taste entirely. About 30% prefer powder for cost-effectiveness with bulk purchasing. The remaining 15% use powder for topical skincare applications.
Oat Beta Glucan
Oat beta glucan has a neutral, slightly sweet grain flavor native to oats with no bitterness. The texture is thick and viscous when dissolved, forming a gel in water and contributing to the creamy texture of cooked oatmeal. The mouthfeel is smooth and creamy, adding body to liquids. There's no aftertaste, just a clean, neutral grain flavor.
Some people find the gel-like texture off-putting in beverages. It thickens liquids significantly, which may be undesirable in drinks but works well in smoothies or baked goods.
- Natural source: Best consumed in oatmeal (most natural delivery)
- For baking: Mix oat beta glucan powder into muffins or pancakes
- For smoothies: Add for thickness (acts as natural thickener)
- For cholesterol benefits: Take with meals to interact with dietary fat
Mushroom Beta Glucan
Mushroom beta glucan extracts have an earthy, umami mushroom flavor that can be slightly bitter depending on source. Reishi is more bitter than shiitake. The aroma is distinctly mushroomy, stronger in powders than capsules, with an earthy, forest-like quality. The texture is fine powder that mixes more easily than yeast beta glucan and is less gel-forming than oat.
The mushroom umami aftertaste can linger 20-40 minutes, especially with reishi extracts. The strong mushroom flavor is polarizing. The dark brown powder can also discolor beverages.
- For coffee lovers: Mix into coffee or tea (mushroom coffee trend)
- For savory meals: Add to soups, stews, or sauces
- To mask bitterness: Combine with cacao powder in hot chocolate
- For taste-sensitive: Start with shiitake or maitake (milder) before trying reishi
- To avoid taste: Choose capsules (50% of users prefer this)
📊 Dosage and How to Use
The right beta glucan dose depends on your health goals. Clinical research provides clear guidance on effective dosages for different purposes.
| Purpose/Condition | Dosage | Duration | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immune support (general) | 250 mg/day (yeast beta glucan) | Variable (90+ days studied) | [A][1] |
| Natural killer cell enhancement | 350 mg/day (β-1,3-glucan) | 8 weeks | [B][4] |
| Upper respiratory infection severity | 900 mg/day (yeast 1,3/1,6) | 16 weeks | [B][9] |
| Older adults (50-70 years) | 250 mg/day (β-1,3/1,6 glucan) | 90 days | [B][10] |
| Cholesterol reduction (LDL) | 3,000 mg/day (oat beta glucan) | Variable (4-6 weeks) | [A][12] |
Timing and Administration
For immune support: Take yeast or mushroom beta glucan consistently at the same time each day. Food is not required for immune-focused supplements, though taking with a meal may reduce digestive discomfort.
For cholesterol: Take oat beta glucan with meals to maximize its interaction with dietary fats. The gel-forming viscosity in the digestive tract helps trap cholesterol and bile acids.
How long until results? Immune priming effects may begin within 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Cholesterol effects typically appear within 4-6 weeks. One study observed reduced cold symptom severity starting from the first week of illness in participants who had been taking beta glucan for 16 weeks[Evidence: B][9].
⚠️ Risks, Side Effects, and Warnings
It's common to worry about supplement side effects. The good news is that beta glucan has been studied in over 30 randomized controlled trials, and serious adverse events are rare[Evidence: A][7].
Side Effects by Frequency
Common (23-67% of users): Gastrointestinal effects including bloating, gas, and flatulence. These are more common at higher doses and usually diminish with continued use[Evidence: A][7].
Uncommon: Mild allergic reactions in individuals sensitive to yeast or mold (for yeast-derived beta glucan).
Rare: No serious adverse events consistently reported across clinical trials.
Drug Interactions
Anticoagulants (warfarin): May reduce anticoagulant effect. Italian surveillance data reported potential interaction. Monitor INR if concurrent use.
Immunosuppressants: Theoretical concern because beta glucan enhances immune function. Consult your physician before use if you take cyclosporine, tacrolimus, or other immunosuppressive medications.
NSAIDs: No adverse effects demonstrated in pre-clinical studies. Generally considered safe to combine.
Special Populations
Older adults (50-70 years): Well-tolerated at 250mg/day for 90 days[Evidence: B][10].
Cancer patients: Safe as immune-supporting adjunct during chemotherapy; reduced immune depression and accelerated white blood cell recovery[Evidence: A][8].
Pregnancy/Lactation: Insufficient data. No published safety studies post-2015. Consult healthcare provider.
Children: Insufficient data. No post-2015 pediatric safety RCTs found. Consult pediatrician.
🥗 Practical Ways to Use Beta Glucan
How to Use This in Your Daily Life
Scenario 1: Immune Support During Cold Season
- Dose: 250-350mg yeast beta glucan daily[1][4]
- Duration: Throughout cold/flu season (90+ days ideal)[10]
- Population: Healthy adults
- Timing: Consistent daily timing, with or without food
- What to track: Number of colds, symptom severity, sick days
- Expected results: Reduced URTI incidence by about 65%[1]
Scenario 2: Natural Killer Cell Enhancement (Stress Support)
- Dose: 350mg β-1,3-glucan daily[4]
- Duration: 8 weeks
- Population: Adults, especially those under severe stress
- Timing: Daily, consistent timing
- What to track: Energy levels, recovery from illness
- Expected results: Significantly increased NK cell activity[4]
Scenario 3: Cold Symptom Severity Reduction
- Dose: 900mg yeast beta glucan (1,3/1,6) daily[9]
- Duration: 16 weeks during winter
- Population: Healthy adults
- Timing: Daily
- What to track: Symptom severity when sick
- Expected results: Reduced severity of cold symptoms for up to 7 days[9]
Scenario 4: Cholesterol Reduction
- Dose: 3,000mg (3g) oat beta glucan daily[12]
- Duration: 4-6 weeks minimum
- Population: Adults with high cholesterol
- Timing: With meals (to interact with dietary fat)
- What to track: LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol
- Expected results: LDL reduction of about 0.27 mmol/L[12]
Practical Integration
Take your chosen dose at the same time each day for consistency. For powder forms, mix with warm liquid first to prevent clumping. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Capsules are convenient for travel; powder is more cost-effective for long-term use.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Wrong source for goal: Using oat beta glucan for immune support (better for cholesterol) or yeast beta glucan for cholesterol (better for immunity). Match source to your health goal.
- Inconsistent dosing: Studies used daily dosing[1][4]. Sporadic use may not achieve benefits.
- Expecting immediate results: Immune priming takes 2-4 weeks; cholesterol effects take 4-6 weeks.
- Starting too high: Begin with lower doses (250mg) to assess GI tolerance before increasing.
What to Look for When Choosing Beta Glucan
Not all beta glucan supplements are created equal. Here's what matters when selecting a quality product:
Quality Markers
- Third-party testing: Look for USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab certification Why it matters: Verifies ingredient accuracy and purity
- Source matches your goal: Yeast beta glucan (1,3/1,6 linkages) for immune support; oat beta glucan for cholesterol[3] Why it matters: Different structures have different primary benefits
- Dosage matches research: 250-500mg for immune support[1]; 3g for cholesterol[12] Why it matters: Research-backed dosages ensure effectiveness
- Beta glucan content listed: Look for mg beta glucan per serving (not just total product weight) Why it matters: Some products list total powder weight, not active beta glucan
- Minimal additives: Avoid unnecessary fillers, artificial colors, or allergens Why it matters: Reduces risk of adverse reactions
Red Flags to Avoid
- Proprietary blends: Can't verify actual beta glucan amount
- Unrealistic claims: "Cure," "miracle," or "guaranteed immune boost"
- No source specified: Doesn't say yeast, oat, or mushroom source
- Suspiciously cheap: Quality beta glucan extraction costs more. Very low prices may signal poor sourcing or low purity.
Where to Buy
- Best: Pharmacies with licensed pharmacists, reputable health food stores, established supplement brands with third-party testing
- Caution: Online marketplaces (Amazon, eBay). Verify seller authenticity and check for tamper seals.
- Avoid: Unregulated websites, pop-up ads, multi-level marketing schemes with unverified claims
How Beta Glucan Compares to Vitamin C: What to Know
Beta glucan and vitamin C both support immune function, but they work through completely different mechanisms. Beta glucan activates immune cells directly by binding to Dectin-1 receptors, while vitamin C supports immune function through antioxidant activity and supporting various cellular functions. They are complementary, not competing, approaches to immune support.
| Feature | Beta Glucan | Vitamin C |
|---|---|---|
| Mechanism/How It Works | Binds Dectin-1 receptors, activates macrophages and NK cells, triggers trained immunity[2] | Antioxidant, supports epithelial barrier function, enhances phagocytosis |
| Evidence Level for Immune Support | Level A (meta-analyses, systematic reviews)[1] | Mixed evidence. Some studies show modest cold duration reduction. |
| Typical Dosage for Immune | 250-500mg daily (yeast source)[1] | 200-1000mg daily |
| Primary Benefit Beyond Immune | Cholesterol reduction (oat source)[12] | Collagen synthesis, iron absorption |
| Common Side Effects | GI effects (bloating, gas) in 23-67%[7] | GI upset at high doses (>2000mg), diarrhea |
| Availability | Supplement (OTC) | Supplement (OTC), widely in foods |
Can you take both? Yes. Beta glucan and vitamin C work through different pathways and are often combined in immune support formulas. No adverse interactions have been reported. Some research suggests combining immune-supporting compounds may offer synergistic benefits.
What The Evidence Shows (And Doesn't Show)
What Research Suggests
- Yeast beta glucan significantly reduces upper respiratory infection incidence by about 65% (OR=0.345) based on a systematic review of 13 RCTs[1]
- Beta glucan triggers "trained immunity," reprogramming innate immune cells for enhanced responses to secondary infections[2]
- Daily supplementation with 350mg β-1,3-glucan for 8 weeks significantly increases natural killer cell activity in healthy adults[4]
- Oat beta glucan reduces LDL cholesterol by approximately 0.27 mmol/L and total cholesterol by 0.24 mmol/L in people with high cholesterol[12]
- Beta glucan is safe as an immune-supporting adjunct during cancer treatment, reducing immune depression from chemotherapy[8]
What's NOT Yet Proven
- Optimal dosage not definitively established. Studies used ranging amounts from 250mg to 900mg for immune support. Dose-response relationship not fully characterized.
- Long-term safety beyond 16 weeks not extensively studied. Longest immune-focused RCT was 16 weeks[9].
- Human evidence is weaker than preclinical evidence. Pre-clinical studies show robust immune enhancement, but human studies show more modest effects[3].
- No evidence for children. No post-2015 pediatric RCTs available.
- No evidence for pregnancy or breastfeeding safety.
- Head-to-head comparisons between yeast and mushroom sources are limited.
Where Caution Is Needed
- Gastrointestinal side effects occur in 23-67% of beta glucan users, higher than the 37% in placebo groups[7]
- May interact with immunosuppressant medications due to immune-enhancing mechanism. Consult physician before use.
- May reduce anticoagulant effect of warfarin. Monitor INR if concurrent use.
- Heterogeneous trial outcomes mean not everyone responds equally. Individual results may vary.
- Quality varies significantly between supplements. Beta glucan content and purity differ widely.
Should YOU Try This?
Best suited for: Healthy adults seeking natural immune support during cold and flu season; older adults (50-70 years) looking to maintain immune function[10]; people with high cholesterol seeking adjunct support (oat source)[12]; cancer patients wanting to support immune function during treatment (with oncologist approval)[8].
Not recommended for: Pregnant or breastfeeding women (insufficient safety data); children (no post-2015 pediatric trials); people on immunosuppressant medications (without physician approval); those with yeast or mold allergies (for yeast-derived forms).
Realistic timeline: Immune priming: 2-4 weeks of consistent use. Cholesterol effects: 4-6 weeks. Cold symptom reduction: benefits seen when already supplementing before illness onset[9].
When to consult a professional: Before starting if you take prescription medications (especially immunosuppressants, anticoagulants); if you have autoimmune conditions; if you experience persistent digestive side effects; if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or considering for a child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I take beta glucan every day?
Yes, for optimal benefits. Clinical studies consistently used daily dosing over extended periods. For immune support, studies showed benefits with 90 days to 16 weeks of daily use. The 'trained immunity' effect requires consistent exposure for your immune cells to be reprogrammed. Sporadic use is unlikely to produce the same benefits seen in clinical trials. For cholesterol, daily intake with meals is essential for the gel-forming mechanism to work.
Beta glucan with or without food?
It depends on your form and goal. For yeast or mushroom beta glucan targeting immune support, food is not required for absorption. However, taking it with food may reduce digestive discomfort in sensitive individuals. For oat beta glucan targeting cholesterol, take WITH meals. The viscous gel needs to interact with dietary fats and bile acids in your digestive tract to trap and remove cholesterol effectively.
How long does beta glucan take to work?
Timeline varies by health goal. For immune priming effects (enhanced immune cell activity), expect 2-4 weeks of consistent daily use. The trained immunity mechanism involves epigenetic reprogramming of immune cells, which takes time. For cholesterol reduction, clinical effects typically appear within 4-6 weeks. One study found reduced cold symptom severity within 7 days of illness onset in people who had been taking beta glucan for 16 weeks.
Beta glucan mushroom vs yeast. Which is better?
Both have immune benefits, but yeast beta glucan has stronger clinical evidence for immune support. Yeast-derived beta glucan has 1,3/1,6 branching linkages that bind very effectively to Dectin-1 immune receptors. A meta-analysis of 13 RCTs specifically examined yeast beta glucan for respiratory infection prevention. Mushroom beta glucans (from reishi, shiitake, maitake) have been studied and show immune modulation, but with fewer large-scale human trials. Choose yeast for more evidence; choose mushroom if you prefer that form or want traditional adaptogenic benefits.
Can you take beta glucan with other supplements?
Generally yes. Beta glucan is commonly combined with vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and other immune-supporting nutrients in combination formulas. No adverse supplement-supplement interactions have been consistently reported in clinical literature. For people on prescription medications, particularly immunosuppressants or anticoagulants (warfarin), consult your healthcare provider before adding beta glucan, as theoretical interactions exist based on its mechanism of action.
Is beta glucan a prebiotic?
Yes, beta glucan functions as a prebiotic fiber. While its primary researched benefit is immune modulation, beta glucan also feeds beneficial gut bacteria, particularly in the colon. Oat beta glucan has been shown to increase populations of beneficial Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus species. The gut microbiome also plays a role in beta glucan's cholesterol-lowering mechanism. This gut-immune connection may contribute to beta glucan's overall health benefits.
What is the best beta glucan supplement?
The 'best' supplement depends on your health goal. For immune support, look for yeast-derived beta glucan (1,3/1,6 linkages) with 250-500mg per serving, third-party testing (USP, NSF, ConsumerLab), and clearly stated beta glucan content (not just total powder weight). For cholesterol, choose oat beta glucan that provides 3g daily. Avoid proprietary blends that hide ingredient amounts. Established brands with published quality standards are generally more reliable than unknown sellers. Match your source to your goal: yeast for immunity, oat for cholesterol.
Does beta glucan lower cholesterol?
Yes, specifically oat beta glucan. A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found oat beta glucan supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol by about 0.24 mmol/L and LDL 'bad' cholesterol by about 0.27 mmol/L in people with high cholesterol. This is why the FDA allows oat products to carry a heart health claim. The mechanism involves gel-forming properties in your digestive tract that trap bile acids and cholesterol, preventing their reabsorption. You need at least 3 grams daily for this effect.
Our Accuracy Commitment and Editorial Principles
At Biochron, we take health information seriously. Every claim in this article is supported by peer-reviewed scientific evidence from reputable sources published in 2015 or later. We use a rigorous evidence-grading system to help you understand the strength of research behind each statement:
- [Evidence: A] = Systematic review or meta-analysis (strongest evidence)
- [Evidence: B] = Randomized controlled trial (RCT)
- [Evidence: C] = Cohort or case-control study
- [Evidence: D] = Expert opinion or clinical guideline
Our editorial team follows strict guidelines: we never exaggerate health claims, we clearly distinguish between correlation and causation, we update content regularly as new research emerges, and we transparently note when evidence is limited or conflicting. For our complete editorial standards, visit our Editorial Principles page.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals before making changes to your health regimen, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications.
References
- 1 . Effects of yeast β-glucans for the prevention and treatment of upper respiratory tract infection in healthy subjects: a systematic review and meta-analysis, European journal of nutrition, 2021, Volume 60, Issue 8, Pages 4175-4187. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 2 . Potent induction of trained immunity by Saccharomyces cerevisiae β-glucans, Frontiers in immunology, 2024, Volume 15, 1323333. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 3 . β-1,3/1,6-Glucans and Immunity: State of the Art and Future Directions, Molecular nutrition & food research, 2021, Volume 65, Issue 1, e1901071. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 4 . Agrobacterium sp.-derived β-1,3-glucan enhances natural killer cell activity in healthy adults: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study, Nutrition research and practice, 2017, Volume 11, Issue 1, Pages 43-50. PubMed [Evidence: B]
- 5 . β-Glucan Induces Protective Trained Immunity against Mycobacterium tuberculosis Infection: A Key Role for IL-1, Cell reports, 2020, Volume 31, Issue 7, 107634. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 6 . Evaluation of Immune Modulation by β-1,3; 1,6 D-Glucan Derived from Ganoderma lucidum in Healthy Adult Volunteers, A Randomized Controlled Trial, Foods (Basel, Switzerland), 2023, Volume 12, Issue 3. PubMed [Evidence: B]
- 7 . Efficacy and safety of oral and inhalation commercial beta-glucan products: Systematic review of randomized controlled trials, Clinical nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland), 2020, Volume 39, Issue 1, Pages 40-48. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 8 . Fungal beta-glucans as adjuvants for treating cancer patients - A systematic review of clinical trials, Clinical nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland), 2021, Volume 40, Issue 5, Pages 3104-3113. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 9 . Effects of Yeast (1,3)-(1,6)-Beta-Glucan on Severity of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: A Double-Blind, Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Study in Healthy Subjects, Journal of the American College of Nutrition, 2019, Volume 38, Issue 1, Pages 40-50. PubMed [Evidence: B]
- 10 . Yeast-derived β-1,3/1,6 glucan, upper respiratory tract infection and innate immunity in older adults, Nutrition (Burbank, Los Angeles County, Calif.), 2017, Volume 39-40, Pages 30-35. PubMed [Evidence: B]
- 11 . β-Glucan Metabolic and Immunomodulatory Properties and Potential for Clinical Application, Journal of fungi (Basel, Switzerland), 2020, Volume 6, Issue 4. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 12 . Effects of Oat Beta-Glucan Intake on Lipid Profiles in Hypercholesterolemic Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials, Nutrients, 2022, Volume 14, Issue 10. PubMed [Evidence: A]
- 13 . The Cholesterol-Lowering Effect of Oats and Oat Beta Glucan: Modes of Action and Potential Role of Bile Acids and the Microbiome, Frontiers in nutrition, 2019, Volume 6, 171. PubMed [Evidence: A]
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions and before making any changes to their health routine, including starting new supplements.
Neither Biochron nor the author takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person reading or following the information in this educational content. All readers, especially those taking prescription medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program.
If you have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.