Beloit, WI— A recent study published in the journalNutritionconducted by the University of Southampton in the United Kingdom found that yeast-derived beta 1,3/1,6 glucan (brand named Wellmune) may protect older adults from upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) as well as reduce the duration of URTI symptoms. The double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial included 49 participants between 50 and 70 years of age in each group, over the course of 90 days in the winter, during which participants took either beta 1,3/1,6 glucan or placebo once daily. During this time, 45 URTIs were confirmed, 28 in the placebo group and 17 in the experimental group. The strongest trend in the experimental group was the reduction of symptom duration though symptom severity did not differ significantly between groups.

As we age, our bodies become more vulnerable to disease as the immune system needs greater maintenance. “This study not only demonstrates the immune health benefits Wellmune can provide older adults but builds upon on a body of published research showing Wellmune can improve general immune health,” said Donald Cox, Ph.D., director of R&D for Wellmune in apress release. “This research can help communicate the efficacy and reinforce the immune health benefits of Wellmune. It also helps our customers develop products that meet the demands of a growing consumer segment, so seniors can be well and stay well.”