Beta-glucan for Seasonal Infections

As winter approaches each year, we all look for ways to ward off seasonal infections. Winter infections are a nuisance to say the least, but with modern technology we are able to shorten a week-long cold to just seven days. In other words, conventional medicine has little to offer to prevent the common cold. Many have searched through numerous natural options to help strengthen the immune system against invaders. Beta-glucan has become a favorite way to bolster the immune system.

Beta-glucan is a fairly new supplement, but it is commonly used to help fend off winter bugs. Interestingly, beta-glucan is found in the cell walls of some yeast. Research shows that the nutrient does influence aspects of the immune system through a few different roles. It can help stimulate certain aspects of protection for the immune system [Source: Bedirli, Engstad, Dennehy]. It also seems to help keep the immune system from overdoing it, avoiding further damage to the organs after an infection [Source: Bedirli, Preus]. One study showed that supplemental beta-glucan could actually benefit allergy symptoms [Source: Yamada]. The immune system is under constant pressure to attack any possible invaders, but avoids being overstimulated to the point that it chronically causes swelling and congestion. Beta-glucan can aid allergies by balancing effects on the immune system [Source: Kirmaz]. The common dose used is 500 mg 1-2 times a day. Since this does affect the immune system, it should not be used by anyone who has had an organ transplant.

Beta-glucan can also come from the fibrous part of oats. Oat beta-glucan is a very high fiber source that has been looked at clinically to lower blood sugar levels. It has demonstrated the ability to lower blood sugar, lower cholesterol and help normalize insulin response to food [Source: Reyna-Villasmil]. Insulin is the hormone messenger used to help move sugar out of the bloodstream. Better control of blood sugar can help diabetics avoid long-term complications such as nerve and eye damage. Beta-glucan also helps lower blood pressure [Source: Maki]. This form of beta-glucan is different than that used for the immune system. Most supplements of beta-glucan will be from the yeast source used for defense against infections, unless otherwise specified. The oat variety seems to be a good source of fiber that helps the body adapt better to incoming sugar. The oat beta-glucan was shown to be effective at doses of 4-6 g daily.

Beta-glucan is a tool to help strengthen the immune system. Its effects can include fighting off colds as well as helping alleviate allergy symptoms. Since it does affect the immune system, its use should be limited to times of need, such as the first sign of an infection or when one has been exposed to someone who is sick. By strengthening the immune system, beta-glucan could help the body help itself against winter infections.

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  • Engstad, CS. (2002). The effect of soluble beta-1,3-glucan and lipopolysaccharide on cytokine production and coagulation activation in whole blood. Int Immunopharmacol, 2(11):1585-97.
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