Beta-Glucan (Yeast & Oat)
Immunity & respiratoryFunction & benefits
Fibre from the cell wall of yeast or from oats. Oat beta-glucan lowers blood cholesterol at 3 g a day (EFSA-authorised claim), and high cholesterol is a risk factor for coronary heart disease; a clinical trial suggests yeast beta-glucan reduced the severity of upper respiratory symptoms.
Dosage & how to use
| Recommended dose | Immunity: 250 mg of yeast beta-glucan. Cholesterol: 3 g of oat beta-glucan split over meals |
| Best time to take | In the morning with a glass of water, or with meals for oat |
| Frequency | Daily |
Best forms to choose
Yeast beta-glucan (β-1,3/1,6) for immunity, and oat beta-glucan or oat bran for cholesterol.
Important warnings
Well tolerated; oat beta-glucan may cause mild wind at first
Consult a doctor if you have an autoimmune disease or Crohn's disease
People with coeliac disease should choose yeast beta-glucan or certified gluten-free oats
Drug interactions
It may interfere with immunosuppressants; take oat fibre two hours apart from other medicines, as it may reduce their absorption.
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Scientific references
- EFSA Journal 2010;8(12):1885 (oat beta-glucan and lowering blood cholesterol)
- Dharsono T et al. J Am Coll Nutr 2019 — PMID: 30198828
Content last updated: 17 October 2026 · Based on published sources and research (EFSA / NIH / PubMed)
⚖️ Medical disclaimer: The information and data provided here are for health education and nutritional guidance only. They are not a medical diagnosis and never replace a direct consultation with your doctor or pharmacist. Always consult your doctor before starting any supplement, especially during pregnancy or breastfeeding or when taking long-term medication.