Beta-Glucan Reduces Cold Symptoms

DRAPER, UtahAccording to a study published in Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, beta-glucan (as Wellmune WGP®, from Biothera) may prevent upper-respiratory tract (URTI) symptoms and improve overall health and mood following a competitive marathon (2009;8:509-515). The placebo-controlled, double blind study self-administered a placebo, 250 mg/d or 500 mg/d of beta 1,3/1,6 glucan to 75 marathon runners (35 men, 40 women) ranging in age from 18 to 53 years during a four-week post-marathon trial period following the 2007 Carlsbad Marathon. During the course of the four-week study, subjects in the treatment groups (250 mg/d and 500 mg/d of beta-glucan) reported significantly fewer URTI symptoms, better overall health and decreased confusion, fatigue, tension and anger, and increased vigor compared to placebo.