Beta Glycans

Scientific names: Beta-1,3-glucan, beta-1,3/1,6-glycan

Common names: Beta glycans also is known as beta glucans.

Efficacy-safety rating:

●●...Ethno or other evidence of efficacy.

Safety rating:

●...Little exposure or very minor concerns.

What is Beta Glycans?

Beta glycans are carbohydrates. They are natural substances that come from a variety of sources including mushrooms (eg, lentinan), oats, barley, baker's yeast, algae, and mannin.

What is Beta Glycans used for?

Dietary supplement

Norwegian beta glycan is sold as an all-natural dietary supplement to boost the immune system and protect against colds and flu. It is claimed to strengthen the body's ability to fight disease-causing organisms. Because of its molecular shape, it binds specifically to macrophage surfaces, activating the immune system and increasing resistance. In another product claim, beta glycans are said to be acid-resistant and pass through the stomach unchanged. Once in the intestine, macrophages attach to activate them. Research reveals no animal or clinical data regarding the use of beta glycan as a dietary supplement.

Immunostimulant

Beta-1,3/1,6-glycan has been studied for more than 30 years. It has immune system stimulant properties. In the 1980s, beta glycans were used to make salmon more disease resistant. Although few studies in humans are available (primarily in HIV patients), beta glycans have been studied in animals for their antitumor actions.

What is the dosage of Beta Glycans?

In an HIV trial, patients were given 2 to 10 mg of the beta-glucan lentinan IV once a week for 8 weeks. In a second trial, 1 to 5 mg of lentinan was given IV twice a week for 12 weeks.

Is Beta Glycans safe?

Contraindications

Contraindications have not yet been identified.

Pregnancy/nursing

Information regarding safety and efficacy in pregnancy and lactation is lacking.

Interactions

None well documented.

Side Effects

The FDA classifies baker's yeast beta-1,3/1,6-glycan as GRAS (generally recognized as safe). But reports show beta glycans may potentiate airway allergic responses and worsen symptoms in patients with existing disease.

Toxicities

No significant toxicity is associated with this agent.

References

Copyright © 2009 Wolters Kluwer Health