Neurologic effects of exogenous saccharides: A review of controlled human, animal, andin vitrostudies

Abstract

ObjectivesCurrent research efforts are centered on delineating the novel health benefits of naturally derived saccharides, including growing interest in their abilities to influence neurologic health. We performed a comprehensive review of the literature to consolidate all controlled studies assessing various roles of exogenous saccharide compounds and polysaccharide-rich extracts from plants, fungi, and other natural sources on brain function, with a significant focus on benefits derived from oral intake.MethodsStudies were identified by conducting electronic searches on PubMed and Google Scholar. Reference lists of articles were also reviewed for additional relevant studies. Only articles published in English were included in this review.ResultsSix randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical studies were identified in which consumption of a blend of plant-derived polysaccharides showed positive effects on cognitive function and mood in healthy adults. A separate controlled clinical study observed improvements in well-being with ingestion of a yeast beta-glucan. Numerous animal and in vitro studies have demonstrated the ability of individual saccharide compounds and polysaccharide-rich extracts to modify behavior, enhance synaptic plasticity, and provide neuroprotective effects.DiscussionAlthough the mechanisms by which exogenous saccharides can influence brain function are not well understood at this time, the literature suggests that certain naturally occurring compounds and polysaccharide-rich extracts show promise, when taken orally, in supporting neurologic health and function. Additional well-controlled clinical studies on larger populations are necessary, however, before specific recommendations can be made.

Effect of β-glucan Supplementation on Levels of IgM, IgA, IgG and Its Subclasses IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, and IgG4 in Cancer Patients

“…Glucan affects virtually all facets of both cellular and humoral immunity [1,2,3,8,10,32,33] . Together, with other authors Ostrasrahimi et al [33] , we conclude that glucan is beneficial in complementary and adjuvant therapy of cancer, increases quality of life, and reduces both psychical and pathophysiological impacts of anticancer treatment [26,33] . Glucan supplementation can influence the levels of IgG, interferon gamma and other hematological parameters [34] .…”

“…Numerous studies, with respect of our current study, evaluated the neurological effects of exogenous polysaccharides. These studies showed that many plantbased polysaccharides have positive effects on cognitive functions in both healthy population and in cancer patients [26] . In our study, we observed that supplementation with glucan caused some effects on cognitive functions and feelings.…”

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“…Nelson ED. group exhibited Aloe Vera gel shows positive effects on cognitive function and mood in healthy adults and promises, when take orally, in supporting neurologic health and function [5] . In an early our in vitro study, the fermentation production of hydrophobic butyric acid was confirmed by endophytic bacteria within Aloe Vera gel, supporting the possible incorporation of Aloe Vera gel as prebiotics aimed at improving gastrointestinal health [6] .…”

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“…α and ß-glucans enhance hippocampal synaptic plasticity [46]. The sulfated polysaccharide from the brown algae Laminaria japonica, sulfated polymannuroguluronate has been reported to exhibit neuroprotective effect by decreasing apoptosis in PC12 neuronal cells, in vitro [47].…”