Nutramunity
Also known as: Nutramunity, Yeast β-glucans, β-(1→3),(1→6)-D-glucans, Immunomodulatory nutritional supplements, β-glucans (from Saccharomyces cerevisiae)
Overview
Nutramunity is a branded supplement ingredient primarily composed of β-glucans derived from the cell walls of baker's yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae), often combined with other immune-supportive nutrients like selenium. It is classified as an immunomodulatory nutritional supplement designed to enhance immune function and alleviate symptoms associated with upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) and fatigue. Its primary applications include bolstering innate immunity, decreasing the incidence and severity of infections, and reducing fatigue, particularly in individuals experiencing physical or psychological stress. Research, including randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, indicates a growing body of evidence supporting its efficacy and safety.
Benefits
Nutramunity offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily centered on immune support and fatigue reduction. Yeast-derived β-glucans have been shown to enhance immune function by increasing circulating natural killer (NK) cells and stabilizing phagocytosis activity, leading to a reduction in the number and severity of URTI symptoms in healthy adults, including athletes and older individuals. For instance, a 90-day randomized controlled trial involving 100 participants aged 50–70 demonstrated that 250 mg/day of a similar β-glucan significantly decreased URTI occurrence and symptom days. Furthermore, a recent systematic review and meta-analysis (2025) highlighted that β-glucans significantly reduce feelings of fatigue in healthy individuals, with benefits typically observed after at least four weeks of continuous supplementation, especially in populations under stress. The inclusion of selenium, often found in Nutramunity formulations, further supports immune function, as systematic reviews have shown selenium to enhance immune markers and overall immune response.
How it works
β-glucans in Nutramunity function as biological response modifiers by interacting with specific pattern recognition receptors, such as Dectin-1, located on immune cells. This binding action activates key immune cells including macrophages, neutrophils, and natural killer (NK) cells, thereby enhancing the body's innate immune responses. This activation promotes phagocytosis, the process by which immune cells engulf and clear pathogens, and stimulates the production of cytokines, which are crucial for immune regulation and communication. When selenium is included, it acts as an antioxidant cofactor, supporting the optimal function of immune cells and helping to mitigate oxidative stress, further contributing to overall immune system resilience.
Side effects
β-glucan supplements, including those similar to Nutramunity, are generally considered well-tolerated with a favorable safety profile. Randomized controlled trials involving hundreds of participants over periods up to three months have reported no significant adverse effects. While rare, some individuals may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Current scientific literature does not document any significant drug interactions or contraindications for β-glucans. However, it is important to note that while β-glucans are generally safe, individuals with specific medical conditions or those taking other medications should consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation. The selenium component, if present, should be taken within recommended nutritional guidelines to avoid potential toxicity, although typical supplemental doses are generally safe.
Dosage
Effective daily dosages for yeast-derived β-glucans, such as those found in Nutramunity, typically range from 250 mg to 500 mg. Benefits, particularly for fatigue reduction and immune support, are generally observed after at least four weeks of consistent daily supplementation. The timing of dosage is flexible, but consistent daily intake is key for efficacy. If Nutramunity includes selenium, its dosage should adhere to established nutritional guidelines, commonly ranging from 55 to 200 mcg per day, to ensure safety and avoid toxicity. Formulations like Nutramunity are often designed with optimized ratios of ingredients to enhance bioavailability and maximize their synergistic immune-modulating effects. It is crucial not to exceed recommended upper limits for selenium to prevent adverse effects.
FAQs
Is Nutramunity safe for long-term use?
Current evidence supports safety for up to 3 months of use. Longer-term data are limited, but no significant safety concerns have emerged from existing research.
How soon can benefits be expected?
Immune benefits and fatigue reduction typically become noticeable after approximately 4 weeks of consistent daily supplementation.
Can it prevent infections?
Nutramunity can reduce the incidence and severity of upper respiratory tract infections, but it is not a substitute for vaccines or medical treatment.
Are there any specific dietary considerations when taking Nutramunity?
No specific dietary restrictions are typically required. It can be taken with or without food, but consistency is more important for efficacy.
Can children take Nutramunity?
Research primarily focuses on adults. Consult a pediatrician before giving any new supplement to children.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10305393/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis on β-glucans and fatigue, published in 2025, analyzed 16 RCTs with 477 subjects. It concluded that β-glucan supplementation significantly reduces feelings of fatigue in healthy individuals, with benefits appearing after at least four weeks of use, particularly in those under stress. The study was of high quality and assessed for publication bias.
- https://www.nature.com/articles/s41430-025-01567-4 – This systematic review by Pletsa et al., 2021, synthesized findings from 12 RCTs across various populations. It reported that β-glucans increased NK cells, reduced URTI symptoms, and improved mood and fatigue. Despite some heterogeneity in doses and populations, the review was deemed high quality and comprehensive, supporting the immunomodulatory effects of β-glucans.
- https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlehtml/2021/fo/d1fo00122a – The Fuller et al., 2017 RCT involved 100 healthy adults aged 50–70, who received 250 mg/day of β-glucan for 90 days. The study found that supplementation significantly reduced the occurrence and symptom days of upper respiratory tract infections. Despite a moderate sample size and focus on a single population, the study was considered high quality and well-controlled.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36789948/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Filippini et al., 2023, examined multiple RCTs on selenium supplementation. It concluded that selenium improves various immune markers and overall immune function. The review was considered high quality and robust, despite variability in the forms and doses of selenium used across studies, supporting its role in immune health.
