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Sammanfattning

ß-glucans belong to a group of cell wall components found in certain cereals, in fungi, lichens and some algae. The ß-glucan structures and their applications vary depending on the source; fungal ß-glucans are known as immunomodulating substances while cereal ß-glucans are used as cholesterol lowering agents. This article focuses on the cholesterol lowering effects of cereal ß-glucans, possible mechanisms of action and structural requirements for such effect. Meta-analyses have concluded that cereal ß-glucans may reduce LDL-cholesterol by about 0.3 mmol/L provided daily ingestion of at least 3 g. In addition, a sufficiently high molecular weight is necessary for effect, providing increased viscosity of the gut contents. Increased viscosity is associated with inhibited bile acid reabsorption to the enterohepatic circulation and also reduction of dietary cholesterol absorption. The observed reduction in LDL-cholesterol is mainly due to compensatory mechanisms to restore hepatic bile acid pools. In addition, there are indications that cholesterol biosynthesis is affected by different mechanisms, and ß-glucan may also provide appetite regulating effects even though this requires additional documentation. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has approved health claims related to the cholesterol lowering effect of cereal ß-glucans providing intake of at least 3 g per day.

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