Presentation Abstract
Beta-Glucan Supplement Reduces URTIs & Improves Mood State in Stressed Women
Presented to the American College of Nutrition
October 10, 2010
New York, NY
Talbott S.1, Talbott J.1 and Cox D.2
1SupplementWatch, Draper, UT & 2Biothera, Eagan, MN
Several studies show a suppression of both immune system function and mood state following psychological stress. Beta-1,3/1,6 D glucan, extracted from Saccharomyces cerevisiae is effective in reducing the incidence of colds and flu. This study evaluated the effect of a beta-glucan supplement (Wellmune) on upper-respiratory tract infections (URTIs) and psychological well-being.
Healthy women (38 ± 12y) pre-screened for moderate levels of psychological stress, self-administered a Placebo (N=38) or 250mg of Wellmune (N=39) daily for 12-weeks. We used the Profile of Mood States (POMS) psychological survey to assess changes in mental/physical energy levels (Vigor) and overall well-being (Global Mood State). A quantitative health perception log was used to track URTI symptoms.
Subjects in the Wellmune group reported fewer URTI symptoms compared to Placebo (10% v 29%), better overall well-being (Global Mood State, 99 + 19 v 108 + 23, p<0.05), and superior mental/physical energy levels (Vigor, 19.9 + 4.7 v 15.8 + 6.3, p<0.05).
These data show that daily dietary supplementation with Wellmune reduces URTI symptoms and improves mood state in stressed subjects, and thus may be a useful approach for maintaining immune protection against daily stressors.
This study was conducted by SupplementWatch and sponsored by Biothera.