Michael Davis
Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affects a significant number of people worldwide. The condition causes inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, leading to symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, and rectal bleeding. While there is no cure for ulcerative colitis, certain treatments and dietary changes can help manage the condition and prevent flare-ups. In recent years, medicinal mushrooms have gained popularity as a potential natural treatment for ulcerative colitis. Various studies have explored the effects of mushroom-derived glucans and polysaccharides on inflammatory bowel diseases, including ulcerative colitis, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits. This introduction will explore the current understanding of mushrooms' role in managing ulcerative colitis, examining their potential benefits, limitations, and future research directions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Medicinal mushrooms | Used as a health food or supplement for the prevention and cure of inflammation, atherosclerosis, cancer, hypertension, diabetes and others |
| Ulcerative Colitis | A chronic type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) |
| Mushroom-derived glucans | Has been shown to prevent carcinogenesis in chronic UC animal models |
| Mushroom Ganoderma lucidum | Has been shown to prevent colitis-associated carcinogenesis in mice |
| Natural-derived polysaccharides | Has been shown to have therapeutic effects on IBD |
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What You'll Learn
Mushrooms may prevent colitis-associated carcinogenesis
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammation of the colon and a significant risk factor for colorectal cancer (CRC). While the development of UC is not related to any specific bacterial species, a reduction in the diversity of gut microbiota is the most consistent indicator of UC.
Mushrooms have been traditionally used as a health food or supplement for the prevention and cure of a range of diseases, including inflammation, atherosclerosis, cancer, hypertension, and diabetes. The anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects of medicinal mushrooms and their components have been well documented in mouse and rat model systems and in cancer cell lines.
The mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (GLT) has been found to prevent colitis-associated carcinogenesis in mice. Colon carcinogenesis was induced in mice by the food-borne carcinogen (2-Amino-1-methyl-6-phenylimidazol [4,5-b] pyridine [PhIP]) and inflammation (dextran sodium sulfate [DSS]). Mice treated with GLT demonstrated a reduction in the amount of infiltrating macrophages, inhibition of colon carcinogenesis, and suppression of colon inflammation. GLT also down-regulated the expression of cyclin D1 and COX-2 and suppressed PhIP/DSS-induced expression in colon tissue.
The consumption of 1-2 servings (100-200 grams) of fresh or dried mushrooms may be sufficient to reach these concentrations of GLT. Additionally, the daily intake of fresh (≥10 g) or dried (≥4 g) mushrooms has been shown to significantly decrease the risk of breast cancer.
In summary, GLT has been shown to prevent and inhibit colon carcinogenesis in mice by suppressing inflammation and reducing the amount of infiltrating macrophages. Therefore, GLT could be considered a potential natural agent for the prevention and suppression of colitis-associated colon carcinogenesis.
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Mushrooms may reduce inflammation
Mushrooms have been traditionally used as a health food or supplement for the prevention and cure of a range of health issues, including inflammation. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) characterised by intermittent inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract.
Mushrooms have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. For example, the triterpene extract isolated from the mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (GLT) has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity in LPS-stimulated macrophages in vitro and in LPS-challenged mice in vivo. GLT treatment significantly reduced the amount of infiltrating macrophages, suggesting that it exerts its effect through the inhibition of inflammation.
In another study, Li et al. (2017) extracted a polysaccharide MAP from M. pumila and applied it to a DSS-induced mouse model of colitis. The results showed that MAP significantly ameliorated intestinal toxicity caused by DSS and suppressed the proliferation of MCA-38 cells. MAP treatment also increased IL-22BP levels and inhibited the expression of IL-22, suggesting that it exerts a protective effect on colitis by modulating the expression and function of IL-22 and IL-22BP.
Additionally, Habtemariam (2019) studied the medicinal functions of D. indusiata, an edible mushroom that has been popular for its medicinal functions. The study found that D. indusiata has therapeutic potential for IBD by regulating the balance of Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg through modulating the JAK-STAT pathway in DSS-induced colitis mice.
Overall, while there is limited research on the direct effects of mushrooms on ulcerative colitis, the available studies and traditional use suggest that mushrooms may reduce inflammation associated with IBD and UC.
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Mushrooms may suppress colon inflammation
Mushrooms have been traditionally used as a health food or supplement for the prevention and cure of a range of diseases, including inflammation, atherosclerosis, cancer, hypertension, and diabetes. They are also being studied for their therapeutic effects on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease.
Mushrooms contain polysaccharides, which are being researched for their therapeutic effects on IBD. Polysaccharides derived from mushrooms have been shown to regulate oxidative stress, inflammatory status, gut microbiota, and the immune system, as well as protect the intestinal epithelial barrier function. These properties make them promising candidates for IBD therapy.
In addition, mushroom-derived glucans have been found to have anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects. For example, triterpene extract isolated from the mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (GLT) has demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity and the ability to prevent colitis-associated carcinogenesis in mice. GLT treatment reduced the amount of infiltrating macrophages and suppressed colon inflammation.
Furthermore, studies have shown that oral consumption of mushroom glucans can prevent colitis-associated dysplasias through modulation of mucosal inflammation and cell proliferation. The mushroom Dictyophora indusiata, a saprophytic fungus of bamboo forest, is also being studied for its medicinal functions in the context of IBD.
While the potential benefits of mushrooms on UC symptoms are being explored, it is important to note that everyone's experience with UC is unique, and the effectiveness of treatments can vary. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant dietary changes or starting new supplements.
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Mushrooms may reduce the risk of breast cancer
Mushrooms have been traditionally used as a health food or supplement for the prevention and cure of a range of diseases. They are the highest dietary source of ergothioneine, a potent antioxidant that may help protect against oxidative stress and lower the risk of cancer.
Research has shown that the consumption of mushrooms is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer. A meta-analysis of 17 observational studies found that mushroom consumption significantly lowered the risk of developing any type of cancer, with the most significant reduction seen in breast cancer. The relative risk for breast cancer was 35% lower in those who consumed mushrooms regularly compared to those who did not.
White button mushrooms, the most common type of mushroom consumed in the United States, have been of particular interest in breast cancer research. Human clinical studies have shown that these mushrooms exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Preclinical studies have also demonstrated that the introduction of white button mushroom powder inhibited breast tumour development, suggesting that these mushrooms may modulate the immune cell profile and specifically reduce myeloid-derived suppressor cells, which are elevated in obesity and breast cancer.
Breast surgeon Lisa D. Yee, M.D., has received funding to support her research on the potential of a white button mushroom supplement in preventing breast cancer in at-risk women. The study will evaluate the effects of the supplement on inflammation and immune cells in postmenopausal women with a BMI of 30 or higher, who are considered obese and have an increased risk of developing breast cancer.
Overall, the available evidence suggests that mushrooms may play a role in reducing the risk of breast cancer, particularly when incorporated into the diet in place of processed or red meat. However, further research is needed to fully understand the protective effects of mushrooms and their potential in cancer prevention.
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Mushrooms may help regulate the immune system
Mushrooms have been used medicinally for thousands of years, with records of their use dating back to at least 3000 BCE. They are reported to have a wide range of health benefits, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, cardiovascular-protective, antidiabetic, hepatoprotective, and anticancer properties.
Mushrooms are particularly adept at immune modulation, meaning they can help regulate the immune system. They have been shown to affect hematopoietic stem cells, lymphocytes, macrophages, T cells, dendritic cells (DCs), and natural killer (NK) cells. Extensive research over the past 40 years has demonstrated that mushrooms have potent antineoplastic properties that can slow the growth of tumors, regulate tumor genes, decrease tumoral angiogenesis, and increase malignant-cell phagocytosis.
For example, the mushroom Ganoderma lucidum (GLT) has been found to prevent colitis-associated carcinogenesis in mice by inhibiting inflammation and reducing the amount of infiltrating macrophages in colon tissue. Other mushrooms, such as lion's mane, shiitake, maitake, reishi, Cordyceps, and turkey tail, have also been studied for their immune-boosting properties.
It is important to note that the research on the health benefits of mushrooms is still ongoing, and solid evidence for their effects in humans is limited. While they may provide a range of benefits, they are not a cure-all and should be used as a complementary treatment rather than a replacement for prescribed medications. Additionally, for patients on immunotherapy, mushrooms can overstimulate the immune system and worsen side effects. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating medicinal mushrooms into your routine, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medications.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushrooms have been traditionally used as a health food or supplement for the prevention and cure of a range of diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD includes ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease. Studies have shown that mushroom intake is inversely correlated with gastric, gastrointestinal, and breast cancers. Furthermore, mushroom extracts such as Lion's Mane, Reishi, and Chaga have gained popularity on social media for their potential benefits on UC symptoms.
Mushrooms contain polysaccharides that have therapeutic effects on IBD. These polysaccharides help regulate oxidative stress, inflammatory status, gut microbiota, and the immune system, thereby protecting the intestinal epithelial barrier function. In addition, mushrooms have anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent colon inflammation and reduce the amount of infiltrating macrophages, which play a role in the development of colorectal cancer associated with chronic inflammation.
According to studies, consuming 1-2 servings (100-200 grams) of fresh or dried mushrooms may be sufficient to gain the potential health benefits. Additionally, a daily intake of fresh (≥10 g) or dried (≥4 g) mushrooms is associated with a decreased risk of breast cancer.
