Plant Hypertensive Peptides to b-Glucans for Immunity
Immune-stimulating Effects of ß-Glucans Research indicates that ß-glucans derived from oats, yeast and mushrooms play a positive role in modulating the immune system in athletes, allergy sufferers and those who frequently contract colds and the flu. In the following section, contributing editor Stephanie Caligiuri reviews supporting research for these ingredients. Dietary supplements and food ingredients are being developed to enhance the immune system, the biological processes which provide protection against disease by identifying and destroying pathogens and tumor cells. Colds, which are the most common infection in humans, are a viral immune disease of the upper respiratory system and can result in significant impacts on productivity. A study reported that among 3,249 university students surveyed, 91% had more than one upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) within a 6-month period. The cumulative effects of the URTI were estimated at 6,023 bed days, 4,263 days of missed school and 45,219 days of illness. Academic performance was compromised with 27.8 and 46.3% of the study population reporting less than optimal performance on exams and assignments, respectively, due to illness1.
Allergic rhinitis (inflammation of the nasal passages), also known as hay fever, affects about 8% of adults and 9% of children in the U.S.2. The affliction was reported to be responsible for a decrease in concentration, increased stress, alteration in mood and a decrease in career performance in more than 1,200 healthcare practitioners surveyed3.
Weakening of immune health represents a particular challenge to athletes, because of the physical demands associated with exertion. In particular, reductions in immune-enhancing natural killer T cells, immunoglobulin A, macrophages, neutrophils and monocytes have been observed. These immune system alterations result in athletes being more susceptible to contracting colds and flu4.
Disorders in the immune system can result in more serious diseases, including autoimmune diseases, inflammatory diseases and even cancer. Immunodeficiency diseases occur when the activity of the immune system is compromised.
Natural health products that can selectively stimulate or modulate the immune system in response to pathogens and allergens are being actively investigated. An important focus is the improvement of the quality of life for people with allergies, as well as for those who frequently contract colds or the flu.
Beta-glucans are polysaccharides comprised of the sugar glucose linked by ß-glycosidic bonds. They are most commonly found in oats, barley, baker’s yeast and mushrooms and are being studied for immunomodulating effects. ß-glucans from yeast and mushrooms are linked in the ß-1,3 position, whereas ß-glucans from oats and barley are mostly ß-1,4 and ß-1,3 linkages.