Last update
4/21/2026
Research Authors

Overview

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 7 Researches
7.1
USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 32 Reviews
8
Supplement Facts
Serving Size: 2 Veg Capsule
Amount Per Serving
%DV
Beta-1,3/1,6-D-Glucan Powder (from Saccharomyces cerevisiae)
500 mg
*
ImmunEnhancer [Arabinogalactan from Larch Tree (Larix occidentalis)]
400 mg
*
📅 Last updated:

Top Medical Research Studies

8
Beta glucan enhances immune response
We aimed to understand if baker's yeast beta glucan (BG) could boost immunity in people experiencing the effects of intense exercise. In two separate experiments with a combined total of 242 participants, we found that BG led to a significant 37% reduction in cold and flu symptoms following a marathon.

Additionally, BG showed a 32% increase in salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA) two hours after strenuous cycling. These findings suggest that beta glucan can improve immune function and may help reduce sickness after heavy exercises.
Read More
8
Beta-glucan reduces flu symptoms
We evaluated the effects of a beta-glucan supplement, Wellmune, on women experiencing moderate stress. Over 12 weeks, we compared the experiences of those taking Wellmune with a placebo group.

Women in the Wellmune group reported significantly fewer upper respiratory symptoms, with only 10% affected compared to 29% in the placebo group.

Additionally, they rated their overall mood and energy levels more favorably, suggesting that Wellmune may enhance psychological well-being alongside boosting immune support.
Read More
We examined various studies on beta-glucans, derived from fungi, to understand their effects on flu and overall health. Through a systematic review of thirty-four randomized controlled trials, we noted that these polysaccharides might strengthen the immune system, potentially reducing flu symptoms and other respiratory infections.

However, while results indicated some improvements in mood and well-being among participants, the variations in immune response at a cellular level leave us wanting more clarity. Overall, beta-glucans are well-tolerated and show promise, but further research is essential to confirm these findings.
Read More

Most Useful Reviews

9
Immune system boost
101 people found this helpful
Normally, I don't do reviews, but this product is amazing! I discovered it through a self-cured cancer video, and while I don't have cancer, I wanted to improve my immune system. While taking this, I didn’t get sick at all, even around my germy little sister. Despite having people sick with the flu around me, I remained healthy. I will definitely be purchasing more!
Read More
7.5
Effective immunity boost
8 people found this helpful
A powerful immune-boosting supplement based on mushrooms. A couple of years ago, I was diagnosed with various strains of HPV. After research, I discovered that beta-glucans can enhance my immune system for better combat against it. After reading numerous positive reviews about this product, I decided to give it a go. I have had very few illnesses, such as colds and flu, over the past year. Tests indicate an improvement in the clearance of my HPV lesions. I blend these with Zinc and AHCC for an effective immune regime, and they have definitely made a difference. Given the cost and recommended daily amount, this is a cost-effective and powerful immune booster.
Read More
9
Prevention assistance
4 people found this helpful
This product is fantastic for preventing colds and flu. The moment I feel something coming on, I take these along with Calcium D-Glucarate to support my health.
Read More

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Medical Researches

SCIENTIFIC SCORE
Possibly Effective
Based on 7 Researches
7.1
  • All Researches
8
Beta glucan enhances immune response
We aimed to understand if baker's yeast beta glucan (BG) could boost immunity in people experiencing the effects of intense exercise. In two separate experiments with a combined total of 242 participants, we found that BG led to a significant 37% reduction in cold and flu symptoms following a marathon.

Additionally, BG showed a 32% increase in salivary immunoglobulin A (IgA) two hours after strenuous cycling. These findings suggest that beta glucan can improve immune function and may help reduce sickness after heavy exercises.
Read More
8
Beta-glucan reduces flu symptoms
We evaluated the effects of a beta-glucan supplement, Wellmune, on women experiencing moderate stress. Over 12 weeks, we compared the experiences of those taking Wellmune with a placebo group.

Women in the Wellmune group reported significantly fewer upper respiratory symptoms, with only 10% affected compared to 29% in the placebo group.

Additionally, they rated their overall mood and energy levels more favorably, suggesting that Wellmune may enhance psychological well-being alongside boosting immune support.
Read More
8
New treatment shows significant improvement
In our study, we aimed to see if a new treatment, which includes colloidal silver and carbossimetyl beta glucan, could help relieve nasal congestion in children with viral rhinitis. We compared this treatment with saline solution in a group of 100 children aged 0-12 years.

Both treatments led to improvements in nasal symptoms. However, we found that the new treatment performed significantly better, leading to greater reductions in symptoms as measured by the Canadian Acute Respiratory Illness and Flu Scale (CARIFS). This suggests that the combination of colloidal silver and beta glucan could be a more effective option for helping kids breathe easier.
Read More
We examined various studies on beta-glucans, derived from fungi, to understand their effects on flu and overall health. Through a systematic review of thirty-four randomized controlled trials, we noted that these polysaccharides might strengthen the immune system, potentially reducing flu symptoms and other respiratory infections.

However, while results indicated some improvements in mood and well-being among participants, the variations in immune response at a cellular level leave us wanting more clarity. Overall, beta-glucans are well-tolerated and show promise, but further research is essential to confirm these findings.
Read More
7
Beta glucan reduces flu symptoms
In a thoughtful controlled study, we looked at the effects of a dairy beverage containing yeast β-glucan on flu-like symptoms among marathon runners. Participants drank either the β-glucan drink or a control beverage over a 91-day period surrounding the marathon.

While the overall frequency and duration of upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) remained similar between both groups, those who followed the β-glucan regimen reported fewer symptomatic days and less severe symptoms, especially with nasal discharge and sore throat.

Surprisingly, those consuming β-glucan also missed fewer workout days due to illness. Overall, this suggests that while β-glucan might not reduce the incidence of URTIs, it does appear helpful in easing their symptoms.
Read More

User Reviews

USERS' SCORE
Good
Based on 32 Reviews
8
  • All Reviews
  • Positive Reviews
  • Negative Reviews
9
Immune system boost
101 people found this helpful
Normally, I don't do reviews, but this product is amazing! I discovered it through a self-cured cancer video, and while I don't have cancer, I wanted to improve my immune system. While taking this, I didn’t get sick at all, even around my germy little sister. Despite having people sick with the flu around me, I remained healthy. I will definitely be purchasing more!
Read More
7.5
Effective immunity boost
8 people found this helpful
A powerful immune-boosting supplement based on mushrooms. A couple of years ago, I was diagnosed with various strains of HPV. After research, I discovered that beta-glucans can enhance my immune system for better combat against it. After reading numerous positive reviews about this product, I decided to give it a go. I have had very few illnesses, such as colds and flu, over the past year. Tests indicate an improvement in the clearance of my HPV lesions. I blend these with Zinc and AHCC for an effective immune regime, and they have definitely made a difference. Given the cost and recommended daily amount, this is a cost-effective and powerful immune booster.
Read More
9
Prevention assistance
4 people found this helpful
This product is fantastic for preventing colds and flu. The moment I feel something coming on, I take these along with Calcium D-Glucarate to support my health.
Read More
10
Increased immunity
3 people found this helpful
Excellent product! I haven’t had the flu for over a year. Due to its quality, my resistance has increased. I take it on an empty stomach in the morning and wait 30 minutes for breakfast. I take another capsule before my afternoon snack. It increases longevity!
Read More
9
Relief after flu
2 people found this helpful
Beta-glucan is my number one supplement for immunity! This product helped me recover following a prolonged flu that depleted my immunity. Highly recommended!
Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

7.5
Immune system boost
Solid product! I take Beta-Glucan supplements before winter to boost my immune system, and this brand has not let me down. After two weeks of taking one capsule in the morning and one in the evening, I hardly feel anything when my body fights a flu or a cold. One bottle lasts a month, and I am very satisfied!
10
Increased immunity
3 people found this helpful
Excellent product! I haven’t had the flu for over a year. Due to its quality, my resistance has increased. I take it on an empty stomach in the morning and wait 30 minutes for breakfast. I take another capsule before my afternoon snack. It increases longevity!
9
Relief after flu
2 people found this helpful
Beta-glucan is my number one supplement for immunity! This product helped me recover following a prolonged flu that depleted my immunity. Highly recommended!
9
Flu-free years
1 people found this helpful
My immune system is stronger than ever! I used to catch the flu and colds multiple times each winter. Since taking Beta-Glucans, I haven’t had the flu and only caught a cold twice in five years. It’s pretty amazing!
7.5
Reduced flu symptoms
I'm on my fourth bottle! With CFS, I tend to experience constant flu-like symptoms every winter. This really supports my immune system, making my flu-like symptoms milder and they disappear quicker. It's also vegan, which is important to me.
9
Excellent flu remedy
5 people found this helpful
Excellent for colds and flu! I have used beta-glucan previously, and this one is just as effective. I combine it with various flu supplements from iHerb.
7.5
Coped with flu
1 people found this helpful
I took it to support my immunity during the cold and flu season. I genuinely felt the benefits when illness struck. I managed to recover from a cold quickly, thanks to this supplement, along with zinc and vitamin C.
4
Effective if timely
It works, but only if taken "in time," meaning not once you’ve already caught the flu; otherwise, it makes the flu feel worse. So it works effectively.
7.5
Took flu away
6 people found this helpful
My mother, aged 73, is asthmatic and prone to winter illnesses and seasonal allergies. I bought her NOW foods beta-glucans (100mg) two and a half years ago, and she's taken one capsule daily since. It's been ages since she’s had a cold or the flu. This season, I've opted for the 250mg option for added protection amidst the Covid situation. So far, she remains perfectly healthy even after using public transport. Additionally, her blood sugar and cholesterol levels are now normal, likely a result of the beta-glucans. It's been a double win for us!
7.5
Support during flu
Excellent product! It effectively builds immunity, and I appreciate the 250 mg formula. I've shared it with family members, and they also find it helpful. I trust NOW products and have been using the extra strength Beta-Glucans to support my immune system, particularly during cold and flu season, and amid the Covid pandemic. I've also noticed a decrease in my cholesterol, which I read may slightly lower total and "bad" cholesterol. Overall, it's a fabulous product for maintaining good health though stronger dosage would be preferable for those needing additional support.

References

  1. Vlassopoulou M, Yannakoulia M, Pletsa V, Zervakis GI, Kyriacou A. Effects of fungal beta-glucans on health - a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Food Funct. 2021;12:3366. 10.1039/d1fo00122a
  2. Mah E, Kaden VN, Kelley KM, Liska DJ. Soluble and Insoluble Yeast -Glucan Differentially Affect Upper Respiratory Tract Infection in Marathon Runners: A Double-Blind, Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trial. J Med Food. 2020;23:416. 10.1089/jmf.2019.0076
  3. Mah E, Kaden VN, Kelley KM, Liska DJ. Beverage Containing Dispersible Yeast β-Glucan Decreases Cold/Flu Symptomatic Days After Intense Exercise: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Diet Suppl. 2020;17:200. 10.1080/19390211.2018.1495676
  4. McFarlin BK, Carpenter KC, Davidson T, McFarlin MA. Baker's yeast beta glucan supplementation increases salivary IgA and decreases cold/flu symptomatic days after intense exercise. J Diet Suppl. 2013;10:171. 10.3109/19390211.2013.820248
  5. Talbott SM, Talbott JA. Baker's yeast beta-glucan supplement reduces upper respiratory symptoms and improves mood state in stressed women. J Am Coll Nutr. 2012;31:295. PubMed
  6. Jesenak M, Majtan J, Rennerova Z, Kyselovic J, Banovcin P, et al. Immunomodulatory effect of pleuran (β-glucan from Pleurotus ostreatus) in children with recurrent respiratory tract infections. Int Immunopharmacol. 2013;15:395. 10.1016/j.intimp.2012.11.020
  7. Damiani V, Di Carlo M, Grappasonni G, Di Domenico R, Dominici P. Efficacy of a new medical device based on colloidal silver and carbossimetyl beta glucan in treatment of upper airways disease in children. Minerva Pediatr. 2011;63:347. PubMed
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