Beta glucans are naturally occurring polysaccharides found in the cell walls of cereals, bacteria, and fungi. Their immunomodulatory effects have made them a topic of interest in the context of autoimmune disorders. Scientific research has demonstrated that beta glucans can modulate immune system activity by stimulating macrophages, dendritic cells, and natural killer cells, as well as enhancing the production of cytokines. Some studies suggest these effects may help balance immune responses, potentially reducing inappropriate inflammation seen in autoimmune diseases.

However, the evidence supporting the use of beta glucans specifically for treating or supporting autoimmune disorders is limited and preliminary. Most research has been conducted in vitro, in animal models, or in the context of infectious disease and cancer, rather than in human patients with autoimmune conditions. While a few small-scale clinical trials and case reports hint at possible benefits (such as reducing the frequency of infections in immunocompromised patients), robust, large-scale randomized controlled trials in people with autoimmune diseases are lacking.

Overall, beta glucans exhibit immunomodulatory properties in laboratory settings, but there is insufficient high-quality clinical evidence to recommend their use as a treatment for autoimmune disorders. Current scientific support is limited, and more research is needed to establish both efficacy and safety in this context.