Beta-glucans are naturally occurring polysaccharides found in the cell walls of yeast, oats, barley, and certain mushrooms that have been extensively studied for their ability to modulate and strengthen the immune system. Unlike many immune supplements that simply stimulate immune activity, beta-glucans work by priming and training immune cells — particularly macrophages and natural killer (NK) cells — to respond more effectively to threats.
This makes beta-glucan one of the most well-researched natural immune modulators available, with over 20,000 published studies supporting its biological activity. The mechanism, known as “trained immunity,” allows the innate immune system to develop a memory-like response that improves its ability to fight future infections — a concept that has transformed our understanding of how the immune system can be naturally supported through supplementation.
Quick Comparison
Product
Beta-Glucan Dose
Source
Best For
Rating
Transfer Point Beta 1,3D Glucan
100mg
Baker’s Yeast
Best Overall
9.6/10
NOW Beta-Glucans with ImmunEnhancer
250mg
Yeast + Larch
Best Value
9.3/10
Better Way Health Beta Glucan 500mg
500mg
Baker’s Yeast
Most Potent
9.2/10
Zazzee Extra Strength Beta Glucans
1,000mg
Baker’s Yeast
Best High-Dose
9.1/10
Horbäach Beta Glucan 1000mg
1,000mg
Baker’s Yeast
Best Budget Pick
9.0/10
Nutricost Beta Glucan 500mg
500mg
Baker’s Yeast
Best for Beginners
8.8/10
Zooawa Mushroom Ergothioneine Complex
Mushroom Complex
Mushroom
Best Mushroom-Based
8.7/10
1. Transfer Point Beta 1,3D Glucan 100mg – Best Overall
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Transfer Point Beta 1,3D Glucan is widely regarded as the gold standard in beta-glucan supplementation, featuring the most heavily researched and purified beta-glucan extract available.
Each capsule delivers 100mg of highly purified Beta 1,3D Glucan derived from Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker’s yeast), standardized to contain a minimum of 80% pure beta-1,3D-glucan — the specific linkage configuration shown to be most effective for immune cell activation. Transfer Point’s extraction process removes the less active beta-1,6 branches and other yeast cell wall components, leaving a concentrated product that has been the subject of over 50 published studies at major research universities. The purity and potency specifications exceed virtually all competitors in the market.
Pros:
Minimum 80% pure beta-1,3D-glucan — highest purity specification available
Over 50 published studies specifically on this product’s extract
Recognized as the research standard by immunologists worldwide
Cons:
100mg dose may seem low compared to competitors, though purity compensates
Premium pricing reflects the research-grade extraction process
Best for: Anyone who wants the most researched, highest-purity beta-glucan supplement backed by decades of immunological research
2. NOW Beta-Glucans with ImmunEnhancer – Best Value
NOW Supplements combines 250mg of yeast-derived beta-glucans with ImmunEnhancer (larch arabinogalactan) for a dual-source immune formula at NOW’s signature affordable pricing.
This extra-strength formula pairs Beta-1,3/1,6-D-Glucan from Saccharomyces cerevisiae with larch arabinogalactan, a high molecular weight polysaccharide extracted from larch trees that has been independently studied for its ability to promote a healthy immune response. The combination provides immune support through two complementary pathways. NOW’s NPA A-rated GMP certification means every aspect of manufacturing — from laboratory testing to product formulation — has been rigorously examined. For those building a broader immune support regimen, beta-glucan pairs well with mushroom immune supplements for multi-pathway immune activation.
Pros:
Dual-source formula combines yeast beta-glucan with larch arabinogalactan
NPA A-rated GMP certification for manufacturing quality assurance
Excellent price point from a trusted, established supplement brand
Cons:
Lower purity specification than Transfer Point’s purified extract
Product may be heat-sensitive during summer shipping
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want a trusted brand with dual-source immune support at an accessible price
3. Better Way Health Beta Glucan 500mg – Most Potent
Better Way Health – Advanced Immune Readiness – Highly Purified 1,3/1,6 Beta Glucan 100 – Clinically Tested Immune Defense – 100mg/60 Capsules
Why Our Beta Glucan Stands Out: Supports immune response by promoting neutrophils, macrophages, and antibodies without causing over-stimulation; formulated based on findings from the Journal of Fungi (2020)
Purity of Our Beta Glucan: Beta Glucan 100 offers a single pure ingredient — highly purified Beta 1,3/1,6 Glucan — providing unmatched immune support and a cleaner formula compared to multi-ingredient blends
Proven Immune Support: Recognized as an effective supplement for immune health; demonstrated superior results in double-blind studies on over 100 brands (University of Louisville, 2019)
Science-Based Benefits: Our Beta Glucan enhances the production of neutrophils, antibodies, B cells, natural killer cells, and macrophages; may support trained immunity to help your body remember past threats (University of Louisville, 2016, 2020)
Who Benefits from Our Beta Glucan: Designed to support immune health for everyone; athletes report quicker recovery times, leading to more training days and improved performance (Journal of Medicinal Food, 2020)
Better Way Health delivers 500mg of purified Beta 1,3D Glucan per capsule using the same high-purity extraction technology as Transfer Point, providing maximum potency for serious immune support.
Better Way Health is one of the leading specialty retailers focused exclusively on beta-glucan supplementation, and their 500mg capsule uses Glucan 300 — a highly purified beta-1,3D-glucan extract with verified purity above 85%. This is five times the dose of the standard 100mg Transfer Point capsule in a single serving, making it ideal for those who want aggressive immune support or who prefer taking fewer capsules daily. The company provides extensive educational resources about beta-glucan research and maintains close relationships with the researchers studying this extract.
Pros:
500mg high-purity beta-1,3D-glucan in a single capsule
Uses Glucan 300 with verified 85%+ purity
Specialist company with deep beta-glucan expertise and education
Cons:
Premium pricing — among the most expensive beta-glucan supplements
Large capsule size may be difficult for some to swallow
Best for: Those who want maximum-strength, research-grade beta-glucan in a single daily capsule for intensive immune support
4. Zazzee Extra Strength Beta Glucans 1000mg – Best High-Dose
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Zazzee delivers 1,000mg of Beta 1,3/1,6 Glucans per serving standardized to 100%, providing one of the highest total beta-glucan doses available in the market.
Each serving of Zazzee Extra Strength provides a full gram of beta-glucan from baker’s yeast, standardized to contain both the 1,3 and 1,6 glucan linkages. The product is vegan, non-GMO, and free from common allergens including wheat, corn, soy, and dairy. Zazzee is known for providing high-potency supplements at competitive prices, and their beta-glucan follows this pattern with generous dosing at a reasonable cost per serving. The 120-capsule bottle provides a 60-day supply at the recommended two-capsule serving. For comprehensive immune coverage, combining beta-glucan with immune support gummies containing vitamin C and zinc covers additional immune pathways.
Pros:
1,000mg per serving — one of the highest doses available
Standardized to 100% beta glucans with both 1,3 and 1,6 linkages
Vegan, non-GMO, and free from major allergens
Cons:
Requires two capsules per serving to reach 1,000mg
Large capsule size may be difficult for some users
Best for: Those who want maximum beta-glucan dosage from a trusted brand at a competitive price point
5. Horbäach Beta Glucan 1000mg – Best Budget Pick
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Horbäach delivers 1,000mg of Beta 1,3/1,6 D-Glucan per serving in quick-release capsules at one of the lowest prices in the beta-glucan category.
Derived from the cell walls of baker’s yeast, Horbäach’s extra-strength formula provides a full gram of beta-glucan per serving in quick-release capsules designed for faster absorption. The product is naturally free from gluten, wheat, milk, lactose, soy, artificial colors, and artificial flavoring. It is also non-GMO and laboratory tested for superior quality. Horbäach has built a strong reputation for providing high-potency supplements across multiple categories at prices that undercut most competitors while maintaining respectable quality standards.
Pros:
Among the most affordable high-dose beta-glucan options
Quick-release capsule design for enhanced absorption
Clean formula free from common allergens and artificial ingredients
Cons:
Purity specification not as clearly defined as Transfer Point or Better Way Health
Less research specifically validating this product’s extract
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers who want a high-dose beta-glucan supplement without premium pricing
6. Nutricost Beta Glucan 500mg – Best for Beginners
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Nutricost provides a clean, straightforward 500mg beta-glucan formula with minimal excipients, making it an ideal starting point for those new to beta-glucan supplementation.
Each capsule delivers 500mg of beta-1,3/1,6-D-glucan from Saccharomyces cerevisiae in Nutricost’s signature simple formulation. The product is non-GMO, gluten-free, and manufactured in a GMP-compliant US facility. Nutricost’s approach focuses on providing the active ingredient without unnecessary additives, keeping the formula clean and the price accessible. The 120-capsule bottle provides up to a four-month supply at one capsule daily, allowing new users extended time to evaluate beta-glucan’s effects on their immune health.
Pros:
Clean, simple formula from a well-known supplement brand
120-count bottle provides up to four months of supply
Moderate 500mg dose is a good starting point for evaluation
Cons:
No branded or specified purity extract
Generic formulation without additional immune-supporting ingredients
Best for: First-time beta-glucan users who want a simple, affordable product to evaluate the supplement’s effects
7. Zooawa Mushroom Ergothioneine Complex – Best Mushroom-Based
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Zooawa takes a different approach by delivering beta-glucans through a mushroom-based ergothioneine complex produced via fermentation, providing both beta-glucan immune support and potent antioxidant protection.
Rather than isolated yeast-derived beta-glucan, Zooawa’s formula provides mushroom-derived polysaccharides (including beta-glucans) alongside 10mg of L-ergothioneine — a powerful amino acid antioxidant produced through a proprietary fermentation process. Mushroom beta-glucans have been extensively studied in traditional and modern medicine for immune modulation, and the addition of ergothioneine provides cellular protection against oxidative stress. This combination makes it a good choice for those who prefer whole-food-based approaches to immune support or who want the additional benefits of mushroom-derived compounds. For a broader mushroom-based immune strategy, see our guide to autoimmune support supplements that often feature medicinal mushroom extracts.
Pros:
Mushroom-based beta-glucans with ergothioneine antioxidant support
Fermentation-based production ensures consistent potency
Provides broader benefits than isolated beta-glucan alone
Cons:
Beta-glucan content not isolated or quantified as precisely as yeast-derived products
Less direct research on this specific formulation compared to purified beta-1,3D-glucan
Best for: Those who prefer mushroom-based supplements and want combined beta-glucan immune support with antioxidant protection
How to Choose the Best Beta-Glucan Supplement
The most important factor in beta-glucan supplementation is purity, not just dose. A highly purified 100mg beta-1,3D-glucan extract (like Transfer Point’s 80%+ purity) can be more immunologically active than 1,000mg of a lower-purity extract containing significant amounts of inactive yeast cell wall material. When comparing products, look for purity specifications (percentage of actual beta-1,3D-glucan content) rather than focusing solely on milligram dosage. The beta-1,3D linkage is specifically the configuration that activates Dectin-1 receptors on immune cells, triggering the cascade of immune-priming events that makes beta-glucan effective. Products that only list “beta-glucan” without specifying the linkage type may contain less immunologically active forms.
Source matters: yeast-derived beta-glucans (from Saccharomyces cerevisiae) are the most extensively studied for immune modulation and have the strongest clinical evidence supporting their ability to activate macrophages, natural killer cells, and dendritic cells. Mushroom-derived beta-glucans also have significant research support and may offer additional benefits from other bioactive mushroom compounds like ergothioneine and triterpenes. Oat-derived beta-glucans are primarily studied for cholesterol reduction and cardiovascular health rather than immune function, so choose your source based on your primary health goal. For immune support specifically, yeast-derived products with verified beta-1,3D-glucan content are the strongest choice.
For optimal immune support, take beta-glucan on an empty stomach (at least 30 minutes before eating) to maximize absorption and immune cell activation. Beta-glucan is absorbed through specialized M cells in Peyer’s patches of the gut lining and then distributed to immune tissues throughout the body via macrophage transport. Taking it with food can reduce absorption by up to 50% and diminish effectiveness, as food proteins compete for uptake through the same intestinal pathways. Morning dosing before breakfast is the most practical timing for most people.
Look for products with GMP certification, third-party testing, and clearly stated purity specifications from reputable manufacturers. The beta-glucan market includes products ranging from highly purified, research-grade extracts to basic yeast cell wall preparations with much lower active content. Price often correlates with purity — premium products like Transfer Point and Better Way Health cost more because their extraction process removes mannan, chitin, and other inactive cell wall components to concentrate the immunologically active beta-1,3D-glucan fraction. Budget options can still be effective but may require higher doses to achieve similar immune activation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are beta-glucans and what do they do?
Beta-glucans are polysaccharides (complex sugars) found in the cell walls of yeast, fungi, oats, and barley. For immune support, yeast-derived beta-1,3D-glucan is the most studied form. It works by binding to Dectin-1 receptors on macrophages and other immune cells, priming them for a more effective response to pathogens. This “immune training” effect helps the body respond more quickly and effectively to bacterial, viral, and fungal threats without overstimulating the immune system — making beta-glucan an immune modulator rather than a simple immune stimulant. Research from institutions including the University of Louisville, Tulane University, and the James Graham Brown Cancer Center has documented beta-glucan’s ability to enhance macrophage phagocytosis, increase natural killer cell activity, and support the production of immune-signaling cytokines.
How much beta-glucan should I take daily?
Effective doses range widely depending on purity. For highly purified beta-1,3D-glucan (80%+ purity like Transfer Point), 100-500mg daily is effective based on published research. For standard beta-1,3/1,6-glucan products with lower purity specifications, 250-1,000mg daily is typical. Research suggests taking beta-glucan on an empty stomach approximately 30 minutes before meals for optimal absorption. Start at the lower end of the dosage range and increase if desired after 2-4 weeks. Body weight can also influence optimal dosing — some researchers suggest approximately 1-2mg per pound of body weight for highly purified extracts.
When is the best time to take beta-glucan?
Take beta-glucan on an empty stomach, ideally 30 minutes before breakfast or your first meal of the day. This timing maximizes absorption through the gut’s M cells without competition from food proteins and fats. Taking beta-glucan with food significantly reduces its uptake and immune-activating potential. If you take multiple doses, space them before meals throughout the day rather than taking a single large dose with food.
Are there any side effects of beta-glucan?
Beta-glucan has an excellent safety profile with minimal reported side effects across decades of research. Some people experience mild digestive effects (bloating or gas) when first starting supplementation, particularly at higher doses. Those with yeast allergies should choose mushroom-derived or oat-derived beta-glucan instead of yeast-sourced products. People with autoimmune conditions should consult a healthcare provider before starting beta-glucan, as its immune-modulating effects could theoretically affect autoimmune activity.
Can I take beta-glucan with other immune supplements?
Beta-glucan combines well with most immune-supporting supplements, including vitamin C, vitamin D, zinc, and elderberry. The immune-training mechanism of beta-glucan is complementary to the direct immune support provided by vitamins and minerals. Some practitioners specifically recommend combining beta-glucan with vitamin C for enhanced immune function. There are no known significant interactions between beta-glucan and common supplements or medications.
How long does it take for beta-glucan to work?
Immune cell priming from beta-glucan begins within hours of the first dose, but measurable improvements in immune markers typically develop over 2-4 weeks of consistent daily supplementation. Most clinical studies evaluate outcomes at 4-12 weeks to capture the full immune-training effect. Some people report feeling improved general wellness and fewer illness episodes within the first month. For optimal long-term immune support, consistent daily supplementation is recommended rather than intermittent use.