Beta glucans, specifically those with 1,3 and 1,6 linkages, are known for their significant health benefits and biological activities, primarily attributed to their structure. Here are some of the key findings on their benefits:

1. Immune Modulation: Beta-1,3/1,6-glucans are recognized for their ability to enhance the immune system. They interact with receptors on immune cells, such as macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells, improving the body’s ability to fight infections¹². This immune-boosting property makes them beneficial in maintaining overall health and possibly in enhancing the efficacy of vaccines¹.

2. Anti-inflammatory Effects: These beta glucans can reduce inflammation, which is useful in managing inflammatory diseases¹. They achieve this by influencing cytokine production and other inflammatory mediators².

3. Cancer Therapy Adjuvant: Beta-1,3/1,6-glucans have been studied as adjuncts in cancer therapy. They enhance the body's immune response to cancer cells and can improve the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy³.

4. Cardiovascular Health: Beta glucans from yeast have been observed to improve lipid profiles and lower cholesterol levels, thereby supporting cardiovascular health⁴.

5. Glycemic Control: There is evidence suggesting that beta glucans can help regulate blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes⁵.

6. Gut Health: These glucans act as prebiotics, promoting the growth of healthy gut bacteria, which is crucial for digestion and overall gut health⁶.

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Footnotes

1. Sarah Walachowski, "Oral supplementation with yeast β-glucans improves the resolution of Escherichia coli-associated inflammatory responses independently of monocyte/macrophage immune training," PMC (2020). ↩ ↩² ↩³

2. Viviam de O. Silva, "Effects of β-Glucans Ingestion on Alveolar Bone Loss, Intestinal Morphology, Systemic Inflammatory Profile, and Pancreatic β-Cell Function in Rats with Periodontitis and Diabetes," PMC (2017). ↩ ↩²

3. Alan B Weitberg, "A phase I/II trial of beta-(1,3)/(1,6) D-glucan in the treatment of patients with advanced malignancies receiving chemotherapy," PMC (2008). ↩

4. Chiara Cerletti, "Edible Mushrooms and Beta-Glucans: Impact on Human Health," PMC (2025). ↩

5. Catarina Caseiro, "From Cancer Therapy to Winemaking: The Molecular Structure and Applications of β-Glucans and β-1, 3-Glucanases," PMC (2022). ↩

6. Godfrey Chi-Fung Chan, "The effects of β-glucan on human immune and cancer cells," PMC (2009). ↩

Beta-1,3/1,6-glucans are polysaccharides known for their immunomodulatory properties, which can be beneficial in managing autoimmune diseases. Here is a summary of the potential benefits and considerations for beta-1,3/1,6-glucans in the context of autoimmune diseases:

1. Immune Modulation: Beta-1,3/1,6-glucans can modulate the immune system by enhancing the activity of macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer cells¹. This modulation can lead to a balanced immune response, which is critical for managing autoimmune diseases where the immune system attacks the body's own tissues¹.

2. Anti-inflammatory Effects: These glucans possess anti-inflammatory properties², which can help reduce chronic inflammation typically associated with autoimmune diseases. By modulating the production of cytokines and other inflammatory mediators, beta-glucans can potentially decrease the tissue damage caused by persistent inflammation².

3. Enhancing Overall Immunity: Beta-1,3/1,6-glucans may help in strengthening the general immune response, making the body more resilient to infections. This is particularly useful for individuals with autoimmune diseases who may have a compromised immune system due to ongoing treatment or the disease itself³.

4. Safety and Tolerability: Beta-glucans are generally well-tolerated and considered safe⁴. However, individual responses can vary, and it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially for individuals with autoimmune conditions.

While these potential benefits are promising, it is important to approach the use of beta-1,3/1,6-glucans with caution and under medical supervision. The complexity of autoimmune diseases means that what benefits one person may exacerbate symptoms in another.

If you would like to search for specific beta-1,3/1,6-glucan supplements, I can help you find the top products available. Would you like me to do that?

Footnotes

1. Sarah Walachowski, "Oral supplementation with yeast β-glucans improves the resolution of Escherichia coli-associated inflammatory responses independently of monocyte/macrophage immune training," PMC (2020). ↩ ↩²

2. Viviam de O. Silva, "Effects of β-Glucans Ingestion on Alveolar Bone Loss, Intestinal Morphology, Systemic Inflammatory Profile, and Pancreatic β-Cell Function in Rats with Periodontitis and Diabetes," PMC (2017). ↩ ↩²

3. Heike Stier, "Immune-modulatory effects of dietary Yeast Beta-1,3/1,6-D-glucan," PMC (2014). ↩

4. Rachana Bhoite, "Clinical benefits of β-glucan supplementation in children: a review," PMC (2022). ↩