I'm no biologist, so please accept a few comments from a layman's experience. At soon 63, I pay as much attention to life extension and health properties as I do to my musclebuilding. I have used Beta Glucan for over two years religeously twice a day taking 200mgs each. The reports that convinced me were primarily centered on immune system enhancement and cholestherol lowering. There are among the 1000 plus studies a lot of references to its use orally and often as a cream to enhance skin properties. It seems to be based around potentiating the macrophage system. I can not single out its results for me because I use several other anti-oxidents. The following is asimple excerpt from just one manufacturer's site which may be helpful to your question.
"A concentrate specifically designed for spot treatment of fine lines and wrinkles. Unique to Super Skin Serum is the healing power of beta glucan, a complex carbohydrate. Oat beta glucan, found in the bran part of the oat, stimulates renewal of skin cells and is used by burn surgeons worldwide to treat burn victims. The ingredient beta glucan makes Super Skin Serum an ideal treatment for scarring and burns."
Admittedly, this could be self-serving sales blah blah but there is too much research around that supports it. I continue to take Beta Glucan simply because it works for me in my supplement context.
. But I doubt they really know about any better alternatives. I for one have never heard of beta glucan...
