β-glucans reduce LDL cholesterol in patients with myasthenia gravis.

We aimed at evaluating whether β-glucans could improve low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and/or glycemic control in patients with myasthenia gravis (MG), in whom statins usually have muscle-related side effects. Fifty-nine MG patients participated in the study and received a daily dietary supplement of 3 g of β-glucans during 8 weeks. Body mass index (BMI) and blood sample analysis of lipid and glucose status were performed before and after 8 weeks intake of β-glucans. In the 52 patients who completed the study, there was a significant reduction in total cholesterol, LDL, ApoA1 and ApoB (all P<0.003). However, glycemic control and BMI were unaltered. The present study indicates that 8 weeks daily intake of 3 g of β-glucans significantly reduces total cholesterol, LDL, ApoA1 and ApoB in MG patients. β-glucans may therefore be of value in improving lipid status in MG patients, without the muscle-related side effects accompanied by statins.