Yeast beta-glucan is a type of polysaccharide that has been shown to have effects on the immune system
Beta-glucans are found in cereals such as oats and barley, in some algae, mushrooms, and yeasts. Their properties are related to their origin and chemical structure.
Beta-glucans are not digested or absorbed by our digestive system because humans do not have the enzymes to break them down. They reach the small intestine intact, where some act as dietary fibers and others as biologically active substances on immune system cells.
What is a yeast beta-glucan?
When you’re considering ways to support your immune health, the options on the market are vast and often reflect the latest health trends. One trend, beta-glucans derived from oats and mushrooms, has been associated with a host of health benefits, including lowering cholesterol and improving heart health and, in some cases, supporting immune system function.
But only beta-glucans from yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) have been shown to have well-supported immune-supporting properties.What are the differences between beta-glucans?
While each of the types of beta-glucans can provide health benefits, the benefits differ depending on the type of beta-glucan.
Oats
Oat-based beta-glucans are noted for promoting heart health and helping to control cholesterol. But scientific evidence does not strongly support this type of beta-glucan for improving immune system function. So, while keeping heart function and cholesterol levels in check are important for preserving health, oat beta-glucans cannot help prevent threats to immune health.
Mushrooms
While mushroom beta-glucans have been shown to have immune health benefits, research indicates that their potency is lower than that of certain well-studied baker’s yeast beta-glucans. Because there are countless undiscovered mushroom species, and among the known types, research on benefits is mixed, they may not be the best overall choice for immune support.
Yeast Betaglucans
Yeast-derived betaglucans typically originate from either baker’s yeast or brewer’s yeast. Although both are beta 1,3/1,6 glucan from Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the beta glucans extracted from the cell walls of baker’s yeast have a different molecular pattern than brewer’s yeast, which may influence the immune modulating and functionalities of the final product. Research supports the immunomodulatory properties of baker’s yeast betaglucan, but not all strains are created equal.
The effects depend primarily on the source and structure of the beta glucans. Meanwhile, several human clinical trials have been conducted with dietary insoluble yeast beta glucans. The results of all studies taken together clearly indicate that oral intake of insoluble yeast beta-glucans is safe and has an immune-boosting effect.
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