Beta glucan lowers LDL cholesterol (lethal cholesterol) and boosts immunity. Found in oats, barley, and mushrooms, it works by binding to LDL, preventing absorption. Incorporate foods like oatmeal and barley into your diet or consider supplements for health benefits..
Cholesterol is a waxy substance that your body needs to build cells.
The human body needs small amounts of cholesterol to carefully build the structures of cell membranes.
HDL cholesterol is known as ‘good cholesterol’ as it plays a crucial role in helping to move the other forms of cholesterol throughout the bloodstream.
On the other hand, LDL cholesterol is classified as bad cholesterol as it causes a build-up within the walls of the blood vessels, which may lead to a clot or blockage.
A blockage in the veins can lead to a heart attack or a stroke.
The problem starts when there’s too much of the 'bad cholesterol LDL (low-density lipoprotein) floating around in your blood.
This build-up can lead to heart disease and the risk of cardiovascular failure.
A medical study proved that β-glucan from barley decreased levels of total low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.
The results of the study state that increasing the intake of barley-containing beta glucan should be a consistent part of approaching your diet to reduce LDL cholesterol.
Medical research has been conducted on how beta glucan may lower lipids in people who struggle with a range of health problems, such as obesity, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Most of the research showed that beta-glucan was good for lipids, particularly for total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol levels.
During a specific study lasting 12 weeks, an average of 1 to 14 grams of glucan was used daily.
They were consumed in the form of beta glucan supplements, as well as the glucan supplement powder being added to porridge, soup, and cereal bars.
In these cases, levels of total cholesterol dropped by as much as 77% and levels of LDL cholesterol dropped by anywhere from 2% to 16%.
Beta glucans are everywhere. They’re in yeast, algae, whole grains, and even mushrooms.
Glucans in the form of daily supplements are a trusted way to get the correct dosage of beta glucan on a daily basis.
These diverse sources play a big role in how beta glucans lower cholesterol levels.
In simple terms, beta-glucan has an affinity for bad cholesterol (LDL). It binds to LDL like magnets stick to your fridge. This binding action prevents our bodies from absorbing LDL into the bloodstream.
Beta glucans also boost bile acid excretion. And guess what makes up bile acids? You guessed it - cholesterol. So more excreted bile acids means less circulating LDL cholesterol.
Glucans can also slow down the liver’s production of new cholesterol.
More precisely, studies show people with high cholesterol who took beta-glucan saw significant reductions in total and LDL-cholesterol compared to those with healthy levels.
Incorporating natural sources rich in beta-glucans into our daily meals is a great way to manage high cholesterol. Grains such as barley, oats, mushrooms, rye wheat and seaweed are all excellent sources of beta-glucans for managing cholesterol.
Before you start gulping down beta glucan supplements or piling on heaps of oats to your meals, it’s crucial to think about possible side effects.
Though it may have its benefits, the risks should not be overlooked.
So before diving headfirst into this dietary change, make sure you’re fully aware of any potential drawbacks.
Your liver uses cholesterol to make bile acids for digestion.
Beta glucans promote bile acid excretion. This means less cholesterol gets reabsorbed into your body.
It indirectly helps lower LDL levels, AKA bad cholesterol.
Science has shown that patients with high cholesterol saw more significant reductions in total and LDL compared to those with healthy levels.
Your liver is pretty crucial when it comes to managing your body’s LDL levels. So what happens when you introduce beta glucans into this equation?
They step up and help regulate the production of new cholesterol molecules within the liver itself.
This modulation action contributes directly towards lowering overall LDL levels – putting a leash on ‘bad’ or ‘LDL’ cholesterol while still letting ‘good’ or HDL ones roam free.
Beta glucan – a natural supplement derived from yeast and whole grains (among other things) - is working hard to keep your cholesterol levels in check.
But remember: while it’s promising, beta glucan isn’t the only tool in your toolbox for managing high cholesterol.
For optimal health, it is essential to adopt a balanced diet and exercise regularly while also taking care of our mental and emotional wellness.
Maintaining a holistic approach to health, including mental and emotional wellbeing, is essential for living a fulfilled life. By taking care of ourselves in all aspects, we can live more rewarding lives.
You don’t need a radical diet overhaul. Making a few minor adjustments to your meals can be sufficient. So, let’s explore foods rich in beta-glucan that are easy to add to your meals:
Additional natural food sources of beta glucan
In addition to adding beta glucan rich foods into your diet, you are also able to add glucan supplements to your daily regime to ensure you are getting the full benefits of glucan.
Beta glucan emerges as a powerful ally in promoting heart health and boosting the immune system.
Found in natural sources like oats, barley, and mushrooms, it works by effectively reducing LDL cholesterol levels and enhancing bodily defenses.
Adding beta glucan into your daily routine could offer significant health benefits, marking a step forward in managing cholesterol and overall well-being.
Remember, a balanced approach that includes diet, exercise, and mental health is essential for optimal health outcomes.
Beta glucan is a natural polysaccharide found in fungi, yeast, oats, and barley that helps boost immunity and lower LDL cholesterol by binding to LDL, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream.
Yes, studies show that beta glucan can significantly reduce LDL ('bad') cholesterol levels, making it effective for heart health and cholesterol management.
While beta glucan is generally safe and beneficial, individuals should consult with healthcare providers before starting any new supplement, especially if they have specific health conditions or concerns.
Incorporate foods rich in beta glucan, such as oats, barley, and certain mushrooms, into your meals or consider taking beta glucan supplements as part of your daily health regimen.