Beta-glucan

Beta-glucan/Nutrient Depletion:

  • CarbohydratesCarbohydrates: In human research, beta-glucan (e.g., GlucagelT, Barley Balance?) in various food forms reduced blood glucose levels, glycemic response, fasting insulin levels, insulin response, and insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) (20; 67; 68; 69; 70; 71; 72; 25; 73; 74; 75; 76; 66). Animal research suggests that dietary fibers have a positive effect on postprandial insulinemia but with only a slight effect on glycemia (131). Fermentation of undigested carbohydrate, especially from barley, produces short-chain fatty acids and may reduce hepatic glucose production (66). In human research, beta-glucan-enriched barley decreased carbohydrate digestion (155), and beta-glucan from other sources may alter blood glucose levels (7; 65).
  • LipidsLipids: In human research, beta-glucan decreased total cholesterol and LDL concentrations (14; 15; 4; 5; 6; 7; 8; 9; 10; 11; 12; 13; 14; 15; 20; 21; 22; 23; 24; 25; 26; 27; 28).