Beta-Glucans as a therapeutic agent: Literature Review

Abstract

Functional foods have been used due to benefits promoted for patient's health. There are several types of functional foods. Thus, the prebiotics being a class used because of the health effects promoted on gastrointestinal tract. Among the prebiotic, beta-glucans (BG's) is highlighted due to the activity in modulation of host immune response. However, besides to modulating the immune response, BG's may exert effects on metabolic parameters such as glycaemia and cholesterolemia. Such effects occur due to the formation of a gelatinous layer in the intestine, which impairs the absorption of glucose and lipids. Thus, many studies have investigated the effects of BG consumption in patients with diabetes mellitus or hypercholesterolemia. According to literature, the use of these prebiotics in glycemic and lipid metabolism control was shown to be effective mainly in diabetic patients. Such results show that beyond to the known immunomodulatory effects of BG's, exist a metabolic effect that is beneficial in prevention and may be adjuvant in the treatment of metabolic diseases.