Βeta-Glucans: One for you, One for me

This paper presents a review of articles on the health benefits of Beta Glucan. β-Glucan is a water-soluble dietary fiber obtained from oats, barley, bacteria, yeast, algae, and mushrooms. Beta-glucan reduces cholesterol and glucose concentrations in the blood, which reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. This study is focused on Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) as a dietary source of β-Glucan. Clinical benefits of β-Glucan in children and adults have been proven in multiple clinical trials.A literature review of articles published between 2011 – 2023 was carried out. Databases explored are PubMed, and various other peer review journals. The search terms were 'Beta Glucan', 'Oyster Mushroom' and β-Glucan Dietary Benefits. Findings confirmed thatBeta-glucans from oyster mushroom, extracted by traditional methods of extraction, are a source of antioxidants withPotent anti-cancer actions. Of immense importance is its ability to augment heart health, regulate blood sugar, and boost the Immune System.Conclusions:Beta Glucan can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. As well as, cancer, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Exploratory studies are recommended on how to generate these compounds sustainably, on a commercial scale, using a multi-stage extraction, employing a sequence of ethanol and aqueous extraction parameters, for the economically deprived settings.