Wellmune (Beta-1,3/1,6-Glucan, Yeast)

Wellmune is a purified beta-1,3/1,6-glucan derived from the cell wall of Saccharomyces cerevisiae (baker's yeast). Primary bioactive compound: beta-glucan polysaccharide comprising approximately 75-85% of the ingredient by dry weight, with beta-1,3-glucan forming the main backbone and beta-1,6-glucan side chains responsible for immunomodulatory activity. Typical clinical doses range from 250mg to 500mg per day. Protein content is minimal, approximately 2-5% by weight, consisting of residual yeast cell wall proteins. Carbohydrate content is predominantly the beta-glucan polymer itself; free sugars are negligible (<1%). Fat content is less than 1% by weight. Fiber classification: Wellmune qualifies as a soluble dietary fiber due to its polysaccharide structure, contributing approximately 0.8-1g of fiber per 1g of ingredient. Caloric contribution is minimal, estimated at approximately 1-2 kcal per 250mg serving due to limited digestibility by human enzymes. Micronutrients: trace amounts of phosphorus and magnesium may be present from yeast cell wall residues, but concentrations are nutritionally insignificant. Bioavailability: Wellmune is not absorbed intact; instead, it is phagocytosed by macrophages in Peyer's patches of the gastrointestinal tract, then transported and sequentially broken down into smaller fragments that bind to CR3 receptors on neutrophils and natural killer cells, priming immune response. This receptor-mediated mechanism means bioactivity is high despite lack of systemic absorption. No significant interactions with fat-soluble or water-soluble vitamins have been documented.