Polysaccharides

How polysaccharides work in the body:

1. Ingestion and digestion:

• Ingestion: Polysaccharides, such as beta-glucans, enter the body through food or dietary supplements.

• Digestion: These compounds resist degradation in the digestive tract and reach the intestinal tract unchanged.

2. Activation of immune cells:

• Binding: They bind to receptors on the surface of immune cells (such as macrophages and dendritic cells) in the intestinal wall.

• Activation: This binding stimulates the immune cells, which begin to release various signaling molecules (cytokines).

3. Boosting the immune response:

• Signaling: Cytokines attract additional immune cells from the bloodstream to the site of infection or injury.

• Defense: Activated immune cells are more effective at recognizing and destroying pathogens and harmful cells.

4. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects:

• Free radical scavenging: Polysaccharides neutralize cell-damaging free radicals through their antioxidant properties.

• Inflammation reduction: They reduce inflammatory processes by reducing the production of pro-inflammatory substances.

5. Other benefits:

• Blood sugar regulation: They slow down the absorption of sugar in the intestine, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels.

• Gut flora support: Their prebiotic effect promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, supporting digestion and overall health.

This process works as a well-coordinated system, where polysaccharides support the body's defenses and health on multiple fronts.