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From cereal to immunity: The magical transformation of beta-glucan!
Grains and fungal products have been used for medicinal and cosmetic purposes since ancient times, but it was not until the 20th century that beta-glucans gained popularity for their specific roles. These polysaccharides from cereals, bacteria, and fungi are found naturally in their respective cell walls, and their physicochemical properties vary depending on the source. The latest research suggests that moderate intake of beta-glucan may improve health, especially in terms of its potential to lower cholesterol and boost the immune system, providing an exciting topic.
β-Glucan is a natural source of fiber that has significant effects on human health.
Structure and types of β-glucan
β-Glucan is a class of compounds composed of β-D-glucose polysaccharides, which are mainly connected by 1-3 or 1-4 β-glycosidic bonds. Depending on their sources, these glucans can exhibit different molecular structures and physiological effects. For example, β-glucans from yeast, seaweed, and various mushrooms have different molecular backbones, branching, and molecular weights, which in turn affect their solubility and physiological impact.
Each beta-glucan molecule has a different physiological effect behind it, which makes them widely used in health products.
History and Research of β-Glucan
The history of β-glucan dates back to the early 20th century. In 1981, research on the cholesterol-lowering effects of oat husks attracted widespread attention, and the FDA revised the health claims for oats in 1997, confirming that daily intake of at least 3.0 grams of beta-glucan can reduce the absorption of dietary cholesterol and lower coronary artery disease. Risk of heart disease.
This statement provides clear guidance to consumers on the importance of soluble fiber found naturally in foods for cardiovascular health.
Health Benefits
β-glucan, as a fermentable fiber, can provide substrates required by beneficial intestinal flora, increase stool volume, and produce short-chain fatty acids, which have a wide range of effects on a variety of physiological activities. Consuming at least 3 grams of oat beta-glucan per day has been shown to reduce total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels by 5% to 10%. This is especially beneficial for people with high cholesterol.
Beta-glucans may also have positive effects on metabolism, the immune system, and various body functions.
Absorption of β-Glucan
After entering the intestine, β-glucan can be absorbed by intestinal cells and enter the lymphatic system, interacting with macrophages to initiate immune function. The finding that both small and large β-glucan fragments can be absorbed into serum provides new insights into the role and potential of these polysaccharides in the human body.
Medical Applications and Future Prospects
Currently, β-glucan has its applications in medicine, especially in detecting fungal infections. While these tests cannot confirm an infection, they help clinicians understand a patient's health and identify possible problems in certain situations.
With the deepening of research on β-glucan, its application in the health field will become more and more extensive in the future.
We are witnessing the transformation of beta-glucan from a common cereal ingredient to an important player in the health and medical fields, which makes us wonder: how will beta-glucan change our health concepts and lives in the future? How?
