Beta glucan is a kind of fiber polysaccharide existing in many plants, which belongs to dietary fiber prebiotics, and mainly exists in yeast, oat, barley fiber, medicinal mushrooms (such as Shiitake mushroom and Ganoderma lucidum), algae and seaweed. Previous studies have proved that it can improve blood glucose and blood lipid. The latest research found that it can also regulate the immune system and reduce cancer risk.
1、 Fungi Beta glucan trains immune cells to prevent cancer
New research conducted by an international team led by George Hajishengalis of the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine shows that: Beta glucan, a compound derived from fungi, can "train" the innate immune system and stimulate the production of innate immune cells(especially neutrophils), which can prevent or attack tumors. They conducted research experiments in mice, isolated neutrophils from beta glucan innate immune training mice, and transferred the cells to non beta glucan mice that grew into melanoma tumors. The research found that the tumor growth of these mice was significantly inhibited.
2、 Oat Beta Glucan significantly reduces cholesterol
Oats Beta Glucan is recognized as a supplement to reduce cholesterol. The study found that ingesting at least 3 grams of oat beta glucan per day can reduce low-density cholesterol (LDL) by up to 10%, thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease by up to 20%.
3、 Mechanism of beta glucan improving blood glucose
Beta Glucan regulates blood glucose by protecting and repairing islet cells, improving insulin resistance and glucose metabolism. Other studies have shown that: Beta glucan can improve the perception of insulin in peripheral tissues, reduce the requirement for insulin, promote the recovery of glucose, and have obvious inhibitory and preventive effects on diabetes.
Therefore, if we eat more beta glucan rich foods such as oats, mushrooms and algae, it can not only regulate blood sugar and blood lipids, but also improve the immune system and reduce cancer risk.
