How Beta Glucan Works
-
Beta Glucan
-
Beta glucans are a group of fibrous sugar molecules. They come from the cell walls of oats, barley, mushrooms or yeast. The source of the beta glucan determines what type it is. The effects of each type are similar, though each is thought to have its own specific health benefit.
Process
-
Beta glucan serves as an immunity enhancer. When ingested, beta glucan goes to the stomach then passes to a special region of the small intestines called the Peyer's patch. In the Peyer's patch, microfold cells (which are responsible for transporting organisms from the stomach to immune cells) transport the beta glucan to innate immune cells called phagocytes. The phagocytes then transport the beta glucan throughout the body by way of the lymphatic system. Phagocytes then digest the beta glucan in order to make soluble glucan fibers that the cells can release over many days. These glucan fibers bind to other immune cells, activating them only when they come in contact with bacteria, cancer or other foreign entities. Since the empowered immune system will not activate unless it comes in contact with a negative substance, beta glucan is a more ideal option for those suffering from overactive immune conditions.
-
Specific Benefits
-
Beta glucan is beneficial for over all immune health but are particularly beneficial for those suffering from high cholesterol, cancer, HIV, AIDS, chronic fatigue syndrome, burns or radiation exposure. Neutrophils (the most abundant type of white blood cell in the body) are activated by beta glucan to fight cancer cells. This is good news considering that neutrophils ordinarily do not recognize or attack cancer cells. Beta glucans also bind to cholesterol in order to release the excess. For diabetics, beta glucans can reduce blood sugar levels by delaying gastric emptying.
A study done by the U.S. Armed Forces Radiobiology Institute indicated that 70 percent of rats given a lethal dose of radiation, were 100 percent protected after being given yeast-derived beta glucan. Beta glucan works before and after radiation exposure to fight free radicals.
-
