beta-glucan

noun

beta-glu·​can ˈbā-tə-ˈglü-ˌkan 

-kən

: any of several polysaccharides consisting of glucose units and including one found in endosperm cell walls of cereal grains (such as barley and oats)

Examples of beta-glucan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Oats Oats are an excellent source of beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that may help stabilize blood sugar. — Brittany Lubeck, Verywell Health, 2 July 2026

Improve Gut Health Oats are a source of insoluble and soluble fiber, like beta-glucan, a component of nutrient-rich complex carbohydrates. — Randi Gollin, Martha Stewart, 1 July 2026

This antioxidant ingredient contains beta-glucan and soaks into the skin to smooth fine lines. — Caley Sturgill, Southern Living, 26 June 2026

Oats Oats are rich in a type of soluble fiber called beta-glucan. — Lindsey Desoto, Health, 4 June 2026

Secondly, beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber that naturally occurs in things like oats and barley, increase the number of good bacteria, kill the bad, and lower cholesterol levels at the same time. — Mélanie Nauche, Vogue, 28 May 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1966, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for beta-glucan

• interleukin
• glucan
• lukan

Medical Definition

beta-glucan

noun

: any of several polysaccharides consisting of glucose units and including one found in endosperm cell walls of cereal grains (as barley and oats)