Indonesia Research Agency Invents Supplement to Fight COVID-19

TheIndonesia.id - The Research Organization for the Assessment and Application of Technology (OR PPT) of the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) produces health supplements that are useful for increasing body immunity, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"It can fight infections caused by viruses, fungi, bacteria, parasites, and toxins. It is also for cancer survivors. It can also be used for prevention (of COVID-19)," said BRIN's Health and Food Director, Soni Solistia Wirawan, in a webinar as part of a series of Research and Innovation Programs of  Health and Food 2021, Jakarta, Wednesday, December 1, 2021.

Soni said the health supplement containing beta-glucan fermented from natural ingredients of green beans with black yeast was named Whole Beta and could act as an immunomodulator, suppressing viral replication and reducing inflammation. Beta-glucan is a polysaccharide that has many health benefits, including scavenging free radicals, anti-radiation, treating cholesterol, and preventing hyperlipidemia, as well as fighting infections caused by viruses, fungi, bacteria, parasites, and toxins.

The ability of black yeast beta-glucan to help boost the immune system is by activating B cells (to produce Immunoglobulin M and Immunoglobulin G) and T cells (which produce interleukin-1 and interleukin-8). In supporting the immune system, beta-glucans are also able to increase the expression of viral sensors that are effective for the prevention of the influenza virus (H1N1) by inhibiting viral replication.

Beta-glucan is also useful for maintaining blood sugar balance, helping the process of tissue regeneration, and as an antioxidant and anti-osteoporosis. The advantage of Whole Beta is that it is soluble in water so it is easy to use, is a natural product, and does not use chemical additives or preservatives. The product has obtained a distribution permit from the Food and Drug Supervisory Agency (BPOM).