Beta-glucan and immune function: a review
Beta-glucan and immune function: a review
beta-glucan and immune function: a review
introduction
Beta-Glucane are a group of soluble fiber that occurs in numerous foods. They are obtained from plants such as oats, barley, mushrooms and algae and are known for their potential benefits for health. In this article we will deal with the relationship between beta-glucanes and the immune function.
What are beta-glucane?
Beta-glucane are polysaccharides, i.e. complex sugar-based molecules that are built from several glucose units. They belong to the Glucane family and have a helix -like structure. This structure is important for your biological activity and its effect on the immune system.
How do beta-glucane act on the immune system?
Beta-Glucane have the potential to stimulate the immune system and improve the body's defenses. They work by activating certain immune cells, such as macrophages, natural killer cells and the dendritic cells.
When beta-glucane gets into the body, they tie up on receptors on the surfaces of these immune cells. This leads to the activation of the cells and an increased immune response. The activated macrophages can combat pathogens more effectively, the natural killer cells can kill tumor cells and the dendritic cells can further increase the immune response.
In addition, beta-glucane can also increase the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines, which leads to modulation of the immune response. These factors contribute to improving immune function and can help ward off infections and diseases.
health advantages of beta-glucanen
Support of the immune system
Due to its stimulating effect on the immune system, beta-glucane can help improve general immune function. Numerous studies have shown that taking beta-glucans leads to an increased production of anti-inflammatory cytokines and increases the activity of immune-related cells.
reduction of the cholesterol level
Beta-glucane can also have a positive effect on cholesterol levels. It is believed that you reduce the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine and increase the excretion. A review of several studies showed that supplementation with beta-glucanes can lower the LDL cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol.
Regulation of blood sugar levels
Another potential advantage of beta-glucanes is their ability to regulate blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that beta-glucane can slow down the increase in blood sugar levels after a meal by delaying the absorption of glucose in the intestine. This can help keep the blood sugar level more stable and reduce the risk of diabetes.
protection against infections
Due to their immunostimulating effect, beta-glucane can also play a role in the prevention and treatment of infections. You can help strengthen the body's reaction to pathogens and improve the immune response against infections. This can be particularly advantageous for people with a weakened immune system.
Anti-tumor effects
Some studies indicate that beta-glucane could also have anti-tumoral properties. You can activate the immune system to identify and kill tumor cells. In addition, you can increase the production of anti -inflammatory cytokines that can inhibit tumor growth and metastasis.
FAQ
Q: How can you add beta-glucane to the diet?
a: Beta-Glucane occurs in various foods, especially in oats, barley and mushrooms. The consumption of oatmeal, wholemeal products, mushrooms and algae can be a natural source of beta-glucanes.
Q: Are there any side effects when taking beta-glucanes?
a: As a rule, beta-glucane are well tolerated and have only a few side effects. In some cases, gastrointestinal complaints such as flatulence or diarrhea can occur. People with celiac disease or wheat allergy should pay attention to products with gluten, since beta-glucane can occur in gluten-containing grain such as wheat.
Q: How much beta-glucan should you consume daily to benefit from the health advantages?
a: There is no generally defined recommendation for daily beta-glucan consumption. The recommended amount varies depending on the state of health and individual needs. In some studies, a daily intake of 3-5 grams of beta-glucanes was recommended to achieve positive effects on immune function.
FAZIT
Beta-glucane are complex fiber that have the potential to improve immune function. You can stimulate the immune system, increase the production of anti -inflammatory cytokines and increase the activity of immune -related cells. This can lead to strengthening the immune system and improved combating infections. In addition, beta-glucane also have positive effects on cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels and possibly even on combating tumors. It is worth integrating beta-glucane into diet to benefit from their potential health advantages.