Therapeutic and Functional Properties of Beta-Glucan, and Its Effects on Health

Abstract

Among the dietary fibers, β-glucan is naturally occurring non-starch polysaccharide formed by β-glycoside bonds of D-glucose monomers. Beta-glucan can be present in abundance in cereals, fruits, fungi, algae, yeast and bacteria. Beta-glucan has recently attracted attention with its positive effects on human health. It has effects on many systems in the body containing the immune system and cardiovascular system. Due to the positive effects of beta-glucan, it has been the subject of many studies and its effects in different fields have been demonstrated by these studies. The aim of this review is to evaluate not only the general properties of beta-glucan, but also its effects on the immune system, blood sugar, cholesterol and insulin, anticarcinogenic effect, obesity, antihyperactive effect, prebiotic and antioxidant properties, antimicrobial and antiviral effects. On the other hand, another aim is to demonstrate the purposes of the use of beta-glucan in the food industry. The application of beta-glucan is agreeable for a wide range of food materials, because of the combination of both, health-beneficial properties and technological features.

Keywords

• Beta-Glucan
• Dietary fiber
• Disease
• Functional Foods
• Health

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