Tasty Talk
Health Benefits of Beta-Glucans
Support Our Advertisers Hannah Rogers recently returned home after serving 5 years in the U.S. Coast Guard as a cook. She enjoys time with her dog, baking, hiking, and serving others. Hannah is currently in the process of establishing Hananel Bakery in Batesville.
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Beta-glucans are biologically active compounds that have multiple health benefits. A type of soluble fiber found in the cell walls of certain foods, beta-glucans are found in foods such as mushrooms, yeast, cereal grains and seaweed. They are one of the best studied immune supplements that may improve the body’s potential to defend against bacterial, viral and other infections. Oats and barley have the highest levels of beta-glucans of all cereal grains. Rice, wheat and rye contain lower amounts of this nutrient. Seaweeds, such as kelp, and yeast (nutritional and baker’s) are also high in this health beneficial nutrient. Mushrooms, especially maitake, chaga, shiitake and reishi, are rich in beta-glucans. The maitake mushroom is even a prescription medicine in Japan. In addition to beta-glucans, mushrooms also contain alpha-glucans that help improve immunity. Since 1983 in Japan, mushroom glucans have been licensed as a cancer preventive drug and a successful immune stimulating drug. There are numerous health benefits and studies that have been done on beta-glucans, such as treating staph, sepsis, parasites, fungus, E. coli, cholesterol, Herpes and many more health issues. It works to activate immune cells, enhancing natural killer cells and white blood cells, consuming foreign invaders to the body. Numerous studies show that different kinds of beta-glucans can lower cholesterol and triglycerides, reduce inflammation, decrease blood pressure and reduce the risk of cancer. In addition, they are shown to improve insulin resistance, thereby protecting the body against diabetes. Allergies, especially in southern states, are helped by using this nutrient, as they help to bring an overactive system into balance. Respiratory tract infections are better managed and prevented with the use of beta-glucans. In a study on betaglucans, participants reported fewer upper respiratory tract infection symptoms, better overall health, increased energy, and decreased fatigue, confusion and tension. Pneumonia is also shown to be helped by beta-glucans. It is difficult to get the beneficial amounts from food, so a well-formulated supplement may be needed. Studies show that beta 1,3/1,6 has the most significant immunological benefit, as well as the best protection against viral and bacterial infections. Adding foods rich in beta-glucans can provide you with many health benefits, but if you have underlying health conditions, consult your doctor before adding the supplement. Here’s wishing you healthy eating and wellness! N
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