glucan

noun

glu·​can ˈglü-ˌkan How to pronounce glucan (audio) -kən How to pronounce glucan (audio)
: a polysaccharide (such as glycogen or cellulose) that is a polymer of glucose

Examples of glucan in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Through an extensive extraction process, the supplements are formulated to optimize the bio-availability of immune-supporting beta glucans. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 4 Aug. 2023 This is thanks to the beta glucans in oatmeal—a form of soluble fiber. Casey Seidan, Ms, Rdn, Cdn, Health, 27 June 2023 Its list of nourishing ingredients includes beta glucan (which helps to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles), hibiscus (which protects against free-radical damage), and mastic (which helps to mattify and refine skin throughout the day). Talia Ergas, Travel + Leisure, 10 July 2023 Beta glucans work by impacting digestion and absorption of dietary fats and lowering levels of total cholesterol and LDL in your blood.8 By affecting these processes, beta glucagons can help lower the risk for heart disease. Casey Seidan, Ms, Rdn, Cdn, Health, 27 June 2023 Also included are antioxidant-rich beta glucan and phospholipids to deeply hydrate and boost the skin’s barrier. Tatjana Freund, ELLE, 30 Nov. 2022 Beta-glucan, which is a type of dietary fiber found in abundance in oats, may also help improve blood sugar control. Stefani Sassos, Ms, Rdn, Cso, Good Housekeeping, 21 Feb. 2020 It's made with hydrating beta-glucan, soothing panthenol, and restoring vitamin E to nourish dry, irritated, post-breakout skin. Angela Trakoshis, Allure, 6 Apr. 2020 Barley contains a cholesterol-lowering fiber called beta-glucan. Darlene Zimmerman, Detroit Free Press, 30 June 2019

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'glucan.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of glucan was in 1941

Dictionary Entries Near glucan

Cite this Entry

“Glucan.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/glucan. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Medical Definition

glucan

noun
glu·​can ˈglü-ˌkan How to pronounce glucan (audio) -kən How to pronounce glucan (audio)
: a polysaccharide (as glycogen or cellulose) that is a polymer of glucose
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