Beta Glucan 60 capsules from Saccharomyces cerevisiae for improved immune function | Jarrow Formulas

Jarrow Formulas Beta-Glucan contains beta glucans, which are natural bioactive carbohydrates, with those derived from certain yeasts and fungi being known for their ability to support immune function. Jarrow Formulas^® Beta Glucan is a high purity extract from the cell walls of a proprietary Baker’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) strain with a unique molecular structure comprised primarily of (1,3)-ß-linked glucose chains (>80%) and a relatively small number of (1,6)-ß-linked side chains.

Beta Glucan supports immune function by stimulating NK Cells, granulocytes, monocytes and macrophages.

 This patented Beta Glucan preparation has demonstrated immunogenic activity in clinical trials.

background reading

Physical, emotional, and physiological stressors can all present recurring challenges to the human immune system. Beta glucans, naturally occurring polysaccharides found in the cell walls of grains, mushrooms, algae, or microbes, such as bacteria, fungi, and yeast (though not in mammalian cells) have been known for decades in clinical research to boost both innate and adaptive immune defenses from the effects of stress by enhancing the ability of immune cells to protect the body from stressors and foreign challenges.

While each source of beta glucan has its own unique structure of glucose linkages, purified, yeast-derived beta glucan from Baker’s yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) is recognized as a “biological response modifier,” and considered to be the most effective source. Made from a patented beta 1,3/1,6 glucan extract of the cell walls of Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Jarrow Formulas’ Beta Glucan contains purified beta glucan for optimal absorption and efficacy.

Unique immunologic benefits.
Since the 1940s, research has highlighted the significant role of beta glucans on immune support, normal cell division, and the management of unwanted seasonal symptoms. After its ingestion, beta glucan molecules are processed by macrophages, which break them down into smaller fragments, after which they are bound to neutrophils. The neutrophils then become “primed” for chemotaxis, ready to provide support against microbial challenges and migrate to target sites with enhanced immune actions. Yeast beta glucans support immune function via various mechanisms, including the stimulation of natural killer (NK) cells, granulocytes, monocytes and macrophages; in addition, their recognition as a non-self-molecule serves as a unique stimulant for immune system activity. Beta glucans have also been found to balance inflammation and promote production of antioxidant enzymes. As a result, yeast-derived beta glucans support microbial balance, resistance to seasonal symptoms, normal cell division, blood sugar balance and more.

By increasing and potentiating monocytes and neutrophil activity, beta glucans are able to enhance the efficacy of conventional microbe- balancing therapies. Studies have found it to support the body’s normal response to a variety of micro-organisms, including viruses, bacteria and fungi. In one study on the effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae-derived beta glucan on cytokine production and NK cell activity, beta glucan administration stimulated spleen cells to increase both interleuken-12 and TNF-alpha production, as well as NK cells. Its potent immune effects have also been found to support circulatory-related symptoms in the lower extremities, related to blood sugar imbalance.

Support for normal cell division
Beta glucan also promotes the normal replication of cells and has been shown to drastically down-regulate cells that suppress immunity. Soluble beta glucan has been found to significantly augment monoclonal antibody-mediated therapy via a complement activation pathway. In addition, yeast-derived beta glucan, in combination with antibody therapies that support normal cell division, has been shown to enhance longevity compared to either intervention alone, and to be superior to mushroom extracts in inducing cytokine secretion in dendritic cells.

Promotes seasonal respiratory health
One of the most notable immune-related benefits of beta glucans is its effect on unwanted winter seasonal symptoms and its support for upper respiratory health. Researchers have proposed its ability to promote production of secretory IgA as a possible mechanism for its beneficial effects. In a 2012 study of adult women, 12 weeks of a beta glucan supplement better supported upper respiratory health compared to placebo, and imparted an added benefit of improved sense of well-being and superior mental/physical energy levels and vigor. Another placebo-controlled, double-blind study from the same group found that marathon runners given 250 mg or 500 mg of beta glucan reported significantly better overall health, improved vitality and mood and increased vigor. Beta glucans have also been shown to support lower respiratory health in children in a double-blind, placebo-controlled study and to improve IgE-mediated seasonal nasal and respiratory complaints.

Jarrow Formulas’ Beta Glucan contains patented, and clinically- supported Saccharomyces cerevisiae derived beta glucan for broad- reaching immunogenic benefits. By providing multi-faceted immune support via a number of mechanisms, Beta Glucan is an ideal supplement to support the body’s response to undesired microbes, seasonal changes, and more.