The authors found that the group that received cyclophosphamide had “considerably more severe cardiac damage than the control group,” but that the beta glucan had a protective effect when combined with the chemo drug. The authors concluded that beta glucan “could act as an effective cardioprotective molecule against the toxic effects caused by CP [cyclophosphamide].” AJ Lanigan has over two decades of expertise in immunology, pharmacology, and natural medicine. He is well known and respected for his work in advancing beta glucan science and education. He candidly describes the effect of beta glucans on the immune system, telling The Epoch Times, “What it [beta glucan] does is it causes the immune cells to do what they’re supposed to do—better and faster.” He breaks it down, explaining, “Let’s look at four simple things that your immune system is charged with doing. Number one, surveil. Number two, identify. Number three, attack. And number four, eliminate the things that don’t belong there—including
cancer cells.” Injected under the skin (subcutaneously) in cancer patients to reduce the size of skin tumors that are a result of cancer that has spread. For treating cancer and boosting the immune system of people with HIV/AIDS and other related conditions either intravenously or by injecting it into the muscle. Given intravenously after surgery to prevent infection. Mr. Lanigan concurs, saying that beta glucans don’t affect cancer directly, but help the immune system do its
Job more efficiently, “It [beta glucan] allows your immune system to do the best it possibly can do to surveil, identify, attack, and eliminate cancer cells.” Researchers tested their survival rates, following up for three years, and found that the patient’s survival rates improved significantly and increased the longer they consumed it. The authors concluded that “lentinan-containing supplementary food is effective for hepatocellular carcinoma patients’ survival” and that “long-time ingestion is preferable,” based on their findings. The dosage of beta-glucans depends on various factors, such as age, weight, general health status, and medications, if any. Between 100–500 mg daily is generally recommended to enhance immune function, but some sources suggest that higher doses may be necessary to receive beneficial effects. If you have cancer and are interested in including beta glucan supplements in your treatment regimen, be sure to speak with your oncologist before you begin to ensure you are doing it safely and can be monitored. Beta glucans are generally considered safe and well-tolerated—however, reactions are possible as with any supplement. The most common are gastrointestinal issues, such as stomach upset, bloating, and diarrhea. To be safe, you can begin with a smaller dose, work your way up, and track your reactions. If you are taking any medications, consult your prescribing physician before taking beta-glucans to ensure there are no interactions with your prescribed medications.