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What´s Beta Glucan?

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What is beta-glucan? Beta-glucan is a key component in soluble dietary fiber that may reduce cholesterol levels and blood –serum levels. Beta-glucan is found in the endosperm of oats and has been studied for its cholesterol reducing properties. When consumed, beta-glucan forms a thick mass during digestion. The mass is a gel like structure that decreases cholesterol absorption and re-absorption of bile salts.1 Cholesterol is needed to make bile salts, so when absorption is blocked the body will take cholesterol from the bloodstream to compensate for lost bile salts, thus lowering cholesterol levels.2 What is cholesterol? The body makes cholesterol, though some comes from food, and is used to make hormones, vitamin D, and aids in digestion. Cholesterol is carried through the blood by lipoproteins. There are two types of lipoproteins: low density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). HDL is considered the “good” cholesterol because it helps remove LDL, the “bad”, cholesterol. High levels of LDL can cause plaque build up within the arteries, which can lead to heart attack and stroke. High intake of saturated and trans fats will increase LDL levels and cause plaque formation. As …show more content…

A diet low in saturated fat and high in dietary fiber is recommended to those with high cholesterol. Greater than or equal to 3g/day of beta-glucan has been proven to reduce blood serum and LDL cholesterol levels.1 Research has proven that risks for cardiovascular disease, such as blood pressure and homocysteine levels, also are reduced significantly when consuming higher amounts of oats.2 Finally, beta-glucan has been proven to be beneficial to those suffering from gastrointestinal disorders, relieving constipation, and increasing satiety. Sources of beta-glucan can be found in oats, oatmeal, oat bran, oat flour, and barley. Consumption of these sources are recommended, along with a diet low in saturated fat to decrease risk of cardiovascular

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