Beta-glucans – allies of human health

The therapeutic potential of foods containing β-glucans has been well known for centuries, as evidenced by ancient Indian manuscripts describing the medicinal properties of mushrooms – the primary source of β-glucans. Due to their prebiotic properties and positive effects on health, these polysaccharides have garnered significant scientific attention.

What are β-glucans?

β-Glucans are polysaccharides composed of D-glucose monomers linked by β-glycosidic bonds. They are found not only in mushrooms but also in oats, barley, yeast, bacteria, and algae. The biological activity of β-glucans differs significantly from that of other glucose-based molecules and varies depending on their molecular and structural characteristics, which are determined by their source. While all β-glucans share a common backbone crucial for their activity, variations arise from branching along this backbone. Accordingly, β-glucans can be classified into cereal-derived and non-cereal-derived types. Cereal β-glucans primarily affect metabolism, the gastrointestinal system, and cholesterol reduction, whereas non-cereal β-glucans influence the immune system, exhibiting anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. This diversity underpins the different applications of β-glucans in clinical studies, ranging from respiratory health improvement to cardiovascular risk reduction. Understanding their structural classification and biological activity paves the way for extensive research into these intriguing polysaccharides as potential agents for reducing chronic disease risk and preventing infections.

The numerous health benefits of β-glucans

Numerous studies have demonstrated the cholesterol-lowering effects of oat-derived β-glucans, thereby reducing cardiovascular risk. These significant findings led the FDA to approve products containing at least 750 mg of β-glucans for reducing heart disease risk, with a recommended daily intake of 3 grams. Some clinical studies have also shown that cereal β-glucans reduce postprandial blood glucose levels. A potential mechanism behind this effect is their ability to form a gelatinous gel in the intestines, which acts as a barrier, slowing the absorption of glucose and lipids. Another key benefit of these polysaccharides is their prebiotic activity, which improves gastrointestinal function by indirectly enriching the gut microbiota through the stimulation of commensal bacterial growth and activity. Non-cereal β-glucans have also demonstrated significant health benefits. For instance, yeast-derived β-glucans have been found to enhance immune response activation, initiate inflammatory processes, improve resistance to infections, and inhibit cancer development. It is important to note that these molecules do not exert direct cytotoxic effects on tumor cells; instead, they act indirectly by stimulating immune cells. Furthermore, mushroom-derived β-glucans have shown positive effects on respiratory health by preventing recurrent respiratory tract infections and alleviating symptoms of allergic rhinitis.

The importance of a balanced diet

β-Glucans are promising molecules with significant therapeutic potential, particularly as metabolic and immunomodulatory agents. A growing number of clinical studies are being conducted on this topic, and enthusiasm for further research continues to rise. Despite their numerous proven health benefits, β-glucans should not be considered a cure-all; maintaining a balanced diet remains essential. Additionally, further research is required to fully understand the key mechanisms underlying their biological and metabolic activity, enabling their more effective utilization in the future, including for therapeutic applications.

Translated by: Josip Kokanović