Evidence supporting the use of: Glucan peptides
For the health condition: Convalescence
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3
Glucan peptides, particularly β-glucans derived from sources such as yeast, fungi, and cereals, have been studied for their immunomodulatory and supportive effects during periods of convalescence. Scientific evidence indicates that β-glucans can enhance innate and adaptive immune responses by activating macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer cells, which are crucial in the recovery phase following illness or surgery. Additionally, some studies suggest that β-glucans may improve resistance to infections and support the healing process by modulating inflammatory responses and promoting tissue repair.
Clinical trials in humans are somewhat limited but show promising results. For example, a few randomized controlled trials have reported improved immune function and a reduction in the incidence of infections in patients receiving β-glucan supplementation during recovery from surgery or illness. These effects are thought to be related to the ability of β-glucans to prime the immune system and enhance the body's defense mechanisms during vulnerable periods.
While most of the available evidence focuses on β-glucans rather than specifically on "glucan peptides," the term is sometimes used interchangeably in the context of medical foods, especially in East Asia. Overall, the evidence base is moderate (rated 3/5) and supports the use of glucan peptides as an adjunct in convalescence, particularly for their immunomodulatory properties. However, more large-scale, high-quality clinical trials are needed to confirm these benefits and establish optimal dosing.
Other ingredients used for Convalescence
aloe veraalpha-ketoglutarate (AKG)
amino acids
arabinogalactan
astaxanthin
astragalus
Beta-Glucan
bilberry
black currant
bovine
bovine liver
branched-chain amino acids
bupleurum falcatum
cat's claw
caterpillar mushroom
chlorella
colostrum
cordyceps
turmeric
elderberry
eleuthero
fish protein
garlic bulb
ginger
gotu kola
grape
green tea
iron
l-alanyl-l-glutamine
l-cysteine
l-glutamine
l-glycine
lactoferrin
lentinula edodes mycelia
licorice root
liquid liver fractions
milk
ornithine alpha-ketoglutarate
pollen
pomegranate
protein
pyrroloquinoline disodium salt
quail egg
reishi mushroom
shiitake mushroom
spirulina
vitamin C
vitamin D
whey protein
zinc
jiaogulan
bee pollen
lingzhi
haliotis
cistanche
ganoderma
royal jelly
fulvic acid
goji berry
algae
Alcohol
Animal Tissue
Antler
Ambergris
Auricularia
Albumin
Andrographis
Algal protein
Alkylglycerols
Animal protein
Butter
Blackthorn
Beef Protein
Beef
Beef liver
Bone Marrow
Bovine Protein
Bacteria
BCAA
Bupleurum
Bird's nest
Chinese Mountain Ant
Coriolus mushroom
Codonopsis
Chinese Pond Turtle
Centella asiatica
Chicken
Dialyzable Leukocyte Extract
D-Ribose
Dipeptide
Egg
Elk antler
Euglena gracilis
Egg protein
Milk Protein
Mistletoe
Quinoa Protein