Betaglucans

Other names: Betaglucan

Harm score: 2 (Derivatives of natural substances)

Betaglucans, also known as Betaglucan, are multiple sugars (polysaccharides) that occur naturally in many plants and animals, but the source of the most potent ones is the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. It is a substance that has many beneficial effects on the human body. Regular use of beta-glucans has been linked to boosting immunity, reducing symptoms of inflammation, improving cardiovascular function, lowering cholesterol and regulating blood sugar levels.

Betaglucans are used in a variety of personal care and food products. In cosmetics, they can be found in a wide range of products from skin care serums and eye creams to moisturizing lotions and balms. In the food industry, beta-glucans have become a popular ingredient in cereals, yoghurt, milk drinks, baked goods and pasta. This is because it can replace fat while adding fibre to the food. In recent years, there has also been a growing trend towards the use of betaglucans in pharmaceutical products such as dietary supplements to support immunity or lower cholesterol.