β-glucans and probiotics

Abstract

In the recent decades, several health-promoting features have been ascribed to β-glucans. Biological properties such as anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating activity have been claimed for these polysaccharides. Moreover, when β-glucans were used in association with probiotic bacteria, prebiotic effects have been demonstrated, due to their ability to enhance growth, metabolism and/or beneficial activities of probiotics. This review shall present an overview of those studies, which have documented the diverse health-benefits of β-glucans and their association with probiotics.