Beta Glucan Testimonials    Go to Beta Glucan product page >

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers 
about BETA 1,3/1,6 GLUCAN

Q. What is Beta 1,3/1,6 Glucan?

A. Beta 1,3/1,6 Glucan is an all-natural substance made from the cell wall of baker's yeast (Saccharomyces Cerevisae). Technically it is a carbohydrate made up of a string of glucose molecules that is highly refined with the fats and proteins removed. Other sources of beta glucan come from oats, barley, mushrooms, algae, mannin and other sources, but for activation of the immune response, none compare to Beta 1,3/1,6 glucan extracted from the cell wall of Baker's yeast.

Q. How does it work?

A. The beta glucan stimulates the macrophage, a white blood cell that is responsible for a multitude of actions, which protect and enhance the immune system. All the functions, including phagocytosis (ability to engulf foreign cells and particles), release of certain cytokines (intercellular hormones) IL-1, IL-6, GM-CSF, interferons and the processing of antigens are improved. Macrophages are involved in every day detoxifying processes, intestinal flora maintenance, anti-infective and anti-tumor protection and maintenance of overall health integrity. Beta glucan taken orally differs from other food substances. This type of glucan is acid resistant so it passes the stomach virtually unchanged. Macrophages in the intestinal wall pick up the beta glucan particles through beta glucan receptors.Immediate activation of these cells follows and later, they are able to travel back to the local lymph nodes (Peyer's patches) as part of their natural antigen-presenting function, release cytokines and induce systemic immune activation.

Q. Are the effects of Beta Glucan backed by scientific research?

A. Yes, numerous scientific studies originating from such prestigious institutions as Tulane University and Harvard Medical School exist to attest to the immuno-activating and protective effects of Beta 1,3/1,6 glucan.

Q. Is particle size important?

A. Yes, in order for the macrophage to engulf the beta glucan and turn on the immune response the particle size needs to be 1 micron or less. Biopolymer Engineering, Inc., the parent company of Life Source Basics, holds the patents for this correct size. If a larger size is ingested it will not be absorbed into the tissues and will pass undigested through the system.

Q. Who should take beta 1,3/1,6 glucan?

A. Anyone who wants to maintain or enhance the effectiveness of his or her immune system; people who experience daily stress and wish to slow the aging process; people who are susceptible to allergies, autoimmune disease, infections disease, slow and incomplete healing and cancer. People, who have impaired immunity from any cause including chronic fatigue, also benefit from beta glucan's immune enhancement. Those habitually exposed to environmental pollutants, UV radiation, and other toxins could benefit from the antioxidant effect and potent free-radical scavenger effects. Amateur and professional athletes may derive health-building benefits from beta glucan.

Q. What dosage should I take?

A. There are no absolutes for determining the exact amount of beta glucan taken to maximize and potentiate your immune system. According to the literature we suggest a maintenance dose of 40 mg - 150 mg. Increased dosage is suggested when symptoms first appear and during illness. Your doctor should be consulted to evaluate individual medical conditions and corresponding dosages.

Q. Are there any side effects and can I take it when I am on other medications?

A. Beta 1,3/1,6 glucan is a Baker's yeast extract. Baker's yeast extracts have been given a G.R.A.S. rating (generally regarded as safe) by the FDA. (In order to acquire this rating, no known side effects or adverse reactions can be associated with the substance.) Furthermore, there are no known adverse effects when taken in conjunction with pharmacological drugs or herbal remedies. In fact, beta 1,3/1,6 glucan has been shown to enhance the effect of antibiotics and cholesterol-lowering drugs.

Q. Will Beta 1,3/1,6 glucan cause a problem if I am allergic to yeast or prone to yeast infections?

A. No, Beta 1,3/1,6 Glucan is a pure isolate of baker's yeast. The proteins, which are responsible for the above problems are taken out.

Q. Can I over stimulate my immune system?

A. No, the macrophage stays in a resting mode until the presence of non-self (virus, bacteria, fungi, cancer, parasites, etc.) at which time the macrophage is activated and becomes the first line of defense against any invader.

†Statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Statements are not intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease.