Baker’s Yeast Beta Glucan May Reduce Immune Suppression Post-Exercise

Previous studies have shown that prolonged strenuous exercise suppresses immune responses in athletes. A recent study has found that less active people may also experience a drop in immune responses post-exercise and that taking a daily supplement of baker’s yeast beta glucan may help improve mucosal immunity after exercise in people who do not regularly exercise.

Participants in the study included 109 young men and women between the ages of 18 and 35. They were given either 250 mg of a baker’s yeast beta glucan supplement or a placebo for 10 days. After the 10 days of supplementation, the participants were instructed to briskly walk or jog on a treadmill for 90 minutes in a hot, humid environment.

The researchers found that the supplement group had increases in salivary IgA when compared with the placebo group. Salivary IgA is an antibody that plays a role in mucosal immunity, This suggests that baker’s yeast beta gluten does, in fact, help bolster immunity after moderate exercise.

Researchers from the University of North Texas conducted the study. It was presented at the National Strength and Conditioning Association 2015 conference in Orlando, FL the week of April 6, 2015 .

Previous studies have linked beta-glucan intake with lower cholesterol, managing diabetes, controlling allergies and improving the appearance of skin.

Beta-glucan can be found in dietary sources including yeasts, algae, lichens, oats and barley. A high quality supplement is also a good option if you’re looking to increase your beta-glucan intake.