BETA GLUCANS
BETA GLUCANS by Rena Davis, MSc Copyright © 2007
Scientific Name(s): Beta glucans (Beta-1, 3-glucan), Beta glycans (Beta-1. 3/1, 6-glycan)
Common Name(s): Beta glycans, Beta glucans
Beta glucans have been studied for more than 30 years and have been found to have immune system stimulant properties. In fact, in the 1980s beta glucans were used to make salmon more disease resistant.
Beta glucans are carbohydrates. They are natural compounds derived from a variety of sources including mushrooms (Lentinula Scientific Names: Aloe vera L., A. perryi Baker (Zanzibar or Socotrine aloe), A. barbadensis Miller (also called A. vera Tournefort ex Linne or A. Vulgaris Lamark Curacao or Barbados aloe), or A. ferox Miller (Cape aloe). A. vera Miller and A vera L. may not be the same species.
Common names: Cape, Zanzibar, Socotrine, Curacao, or Barbados aloe, aloe vera edodes), oats, barley, baker’s yeast, algae, and mannin.
In in vitro testing and in mice studies, beta glucans have demonstrated potential immune response through enhanced ability of natural killer cells and macrophase activity. In mice with experimental colon and skin wounds, beta glucans increased tensile strength of wounds by 42% and increased collagen biosynthesis as well.
An all natural dietary supplement, Norwegian beta glucan is sold as a supplement to boost the immune system and protect against colds and flu. It claims to strengthen the body’s natural ability to fight disease-causing organism due to its molecular structure as it binds specifically to macrophage surfaces, activating the immune system and increasing resistance. In another claim, beta glucans are said to pass through the stomach unchanged, due to their acid-resistant nature. Other product claims include beta glucans’ ability to heal bed sores, nail fungus, and ear infections. Beta glucans in human trial in phase I and Phase II HIV research appear promising, but this still requires confirmation.
References:
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9. Portera C., et al. Effect of marcrophage stimulation on collagen biosynthesis in the healing wound. Am Surg 1997; 63(2): 125-31.
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