What are beta glucans?
beta glucans are naturally occurring polysaccharides found in cell walls of algae, bacteria, lichens and yeast. These sugars can also be found in plants such as barley and oats. They are used in the production of food additives, as well as in drugs that help reduce cholesterol levels and increase the immune system.
The most common use in production is the food ingredient or the ingredients of food in cheese span, frozen desserts, salad bandages and sour cream. Yeast extract and bakery yeast are forms that often appear on food labels. Other forms can be used to improve the properties of food emulsions or in soluble fiber supplements. Yeast forms are used more in medicine, although it is assumed that oat beta glucan has greater therapeutic potential. Glucan enriched barley has not been reflected in some tests, although it is further research in processing methods for enriched products. FormY beta glucans derived from shiitake mushrooms and other mushrooms have shown effectiveness in certain medical uses and are studied.
Beta Glucan benefits may include lower cholesterol levels and improving the immune system. When yeast beta glucan is used by mouth, it is assumed that it helps prevent the absorption of cholesterol during digestion in the stomach and intestines. German research presented at the first International Congress on Pre-Dabetes and Metabolic Syndrome found that Beta Glucan barley lowers serum lipid levels, as well as cholesterol, triglycerides and glycemic control markers.
Many experts agree that early evidence of attempts to human use beta glucans to help control blood sugar are promising, but suggest that further research is needed. However, there is a strong support for their use in boosting an immune system in people with an immune deficiency syndrome(AIDS) or infection of the virus of human immunodeficiency (HIV). Beta glucan injections can also be administered after surgery to prevent infection. Beta Glucan supplements are sold through the counter as supplements to people who believe that sugars are useful in the treatment of other conditions that benefit from strengthening the immune system.
Studies indicate an increased survival rate in some cancer patients when beta glucans are intravenous or injection together with conventional treatment. Beta glucan treatment must usually be administered for at least one year to be effective. Specific beta glucans can be administered intravenously to extend the lives of some people with certain advanced cancer.
Although beta glucans in foods are generally considered safe, there may be side effects on medicinal formulations. Fungal and yeast versions seem to be well tolerated when they are used by the mouth. Intravenous treatment cause numerous side effects, including dizziness, painThose heads, nausea and changes in blood pressure.