Emily Johnson
Mushrooms have long been touted for their health benefits, including their potential to lower cholesterol. While some studies have found inconsistent results, there is growing evidence that suggests consuming certain types of mushrooms may positively impact cholesterol levels. This is particularly relevant given the link between high cholesterol and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. So, do psychedelic mushrooms lower your cholesterol? Let's delve into the world of fungi to explore this intriguing possibility.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Do psychedelic mushrooms lower cholesterol? | Research suggests that a compound in mushrooms called eritadenine may lower cholesterol values. Beta-glucans, found in mushrooms, can also reduce cholesterol levels. |
| Types of mushrooms that lower cholesterol | Oyster, shiitake, maitake, and enokitake mushrooms have been found to lower cholesterol in animal studies. |
| Other health benefits | Mushrooms are a good source of fiber and polyphenols, which support the gut microbiome. They also contain vitamin D, which is linked to heart health. |
| How to include mushrooms in your diet | Mushrooms can be included in recipes as a substitute for meat, reducing total cholesterol intake. |
| Limitations of current research | Most studies on the topic are animal studies, and human studies are limited. |
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What You'll Learn
Oyster mushrooms lower cholesterol
Oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus ostreatus) are edible mushrooms that are shaped like oysters. They are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals. They are also high in bioactive compounds, which are known to have cholesterol-lowering properties.
A review of several scientific studies found that eating around 18 grams of mushrooms daily may help lower cancer risk by 45%. Mushrooms also contain special compounds like ergothioneine, which may be responsible for this benefit.
Research suggests that oyster mushrooms may positively influence the lipid profile. Animal studies have shown that consuming oyster mushrooms can reduce total cholesterol levels. In one study, feeding oyster mushrooms to hypercholesterolemic rats reduced their plasma total cholesterol levels by 37%, 21%, and 16%, respectively. The LDL/HDL ratio also decreased by 64%, 45%, and 41% for the three types of oyster mushrooms used in the study.
In humans, a three-week diet with oyster mushrooms showed a significant tendency to lower total cholesterol values. A separate study involving 20 subjects who consumed oyster mushroom soup daily for 21 days showed a significant decrease in triacylglycerol concentrations and oxidized low-density lipoprotein levels, with a tendency to lower total cholesterol values.
Oyster mushrooms can be easily incorporated into various dishes, such as sautés, stir-fries, and soups. They are versatile and pair well with different types of meat, including poultry, seafood, fish, and red meat.
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Shiitake mushrooms lower cholesterol
While there is limited evidence of the impact of mushroom consumption on cholesterol levels in humans, studies suggest that shiitake mushrooms may help lower cholesterol.
Shiitake mushrooms (Lentinus edodes) are native to the mountain regions of Japan, Korea, and China and have been used in East Asian food and traditional medicine for centuries. They are now the third most popular mushroom in the world and are known for their rich, earthy flavor.
Shiitake mushrooms contain eritadenine, a compound known to reduce cholesterol levels in the blood. They also contain beta-glucans, which reduce inflammation and prevent the intestines from absorbing cholesterol. In addition, shiitake mushrooms are a good source of polysaccharides, which protect against cell damage, support the immune system, and have anti-inflammatory properties.
Several studies have found that shiitake mushrooms can lower cholesterol levels in rats. One study found that a diet containing shiitake mushrooms reduced total cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides in both male and female rats. Another study showed that shiitake powder prevented an increase in blood pressure and reduced fat in the livers and plaque in the arteries of rats fed a high-fat diet.
While the cholesterol-lowering effects of shiitake mushrooms have been observed in animal studies, more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans. However, the available evidence suggests that shiitake mushrooms may be an effective natural food ingredient for lowering cholesterol and improving heart health.
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Mushrooms are a good source of fibre
The cell walls of fungi, which make up mushrooms, are composed of the fibrous polysaccharide chitin. This is the second most abundant polysaccharide in nature, after plant cellulose. There are two types of fibre: soluble fibre, which dissolves in water, and insoluble fibre. The soluble fibre in mushrooms can reduce serum cholesterol concentration, which may reduce one's risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Research has shown that oyster mushrooms positively influence the lipid profile and significantly lower total cholesterol values. Additionally, the inclusion of mushrooms in a hypocholesterolaemic diet has been recommended by practitioners of Oriental medicine. Wood-rotting shiitake mushrooms have been shown to significantly decrease total cholesterol levels in both animals and humans.
Mushrooms also contain compounds such as beta-glucans and lovastatin, which are known for their cholesterol-lowering properties. Substituting mushrooms for meat in recipes can be a good way to reduce cholesterol intake and improve cardiometabolic health.
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Mushrooms are high in ergothioneine
While there is no direct evidence that psychedelic mushrooms lower cholesterol, certain mushrooms have been found to have cholesterol-lowering properties. These include the oyster mushroom, which has been shown to positively influence the lipid profile and significantly decrease triacylglycerol concentrations and total cholesterol values. The shiitake mushroom has also been found to significantly decrease total cholesterol levels in both animals and humans.
The oyster, shiitake, king bolete or porcini, and enokitake mushrooms have been found to contain high amounts of ergothioneine. On the other hand, the chanterelle and common white button mushrooms contain negligible amounts. Ergothioneine supplements are also available, but it is important to consult a healthcare provider before taking any kind of supplement.
The potential health benefits of ergothioneine are still being researched. However, a specialized transporter known as the ERGO transporter (ETT) has been discovered, which absorbs and moves ergothioneine directly to cells, particularly those that deal with high levels of oxidative stress, such as red blood cells and cells in the central nervous system. Ergothioneine helps these cells produce energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) at the mitochondrial level, which can aid in cell regeneration.
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Mushrooms are a healthy meat substitute
Mushrooms are a tasty and healthy meat substitute. They are low in calories, carbohydrates, fat, and sodium, and high in vitamins, minerals, and soluble fibres. Mushrooms are rich sources of selenium, zinc, and vitamins B1, B2, B5, B6, and B12. They are also a good source of protein, containing about 2g of protein per 100g, which is comparable to most vegetables.
Mushrooms can be used as a meat substitute in a wide range of dishes. For example, king oyster mushrooms can be sliced and seared like scallops, or lions mane mushrooms can be shredded and used like crab meat. Mushrooms can also be fried in beef fat to add a complimentary depth of flavour to a dish, or used in a vegan bolognese with crushed walnuts, seitan, and lentils.
In addition to being a tasty and versatile meat substitute, mushrooms may also have cholesterol-lowering properties. Oyster mushrooms, for example, have been shown to decrease triacylglycerol concentrations and lower total cholesterol values. Other commonly consumed mushroom species, such as Agaricus bisporus, contain compounds with cholesterol-lowering properties, including beta-glucans and lovastatin. Substituting mushrooms for meat in recipes can be a great way to reduce your total cholesterol intake and improve your overall health.
Mushrooms are also a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to meat. Animal agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and water and air pollution. By choosing mushroom-based meat alternatives, individuals can help reduce the environmental impact of their food choices.
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Frequently asked questions
While there is no definitive answer, studies suggest that the consumption of mushrooms may help lower cholesterol levels. Mushrooms are a good source of fiber and polyphenols, which support a healthy gut microbiome. Additionally, mushrooms contain compounds like beta-glucans, lovastatin, and eritadenine, which are known to have cholesterol-lowering properties.
Yes, certain types of mushrooms have been found to be more effective in lowering cholesterol levels. Oyster mushrooms, for instance, have been shown to positively influence the lipid profile in animal studies and have been linked to reduced cholesterol levels in humans as well. Shiitake mushrooms have also been reported to exhibit cholesterol-lowering effects in both animal and human studies.
Mushrooms can be easily incorporated into your diet by substituting them for meat in recipes. Even replacing half the meat in a dish with mushrooms can significantly reduce your cholesterol intake. Additionally, opting for mushroom-based dishes like oyster mushroom soup can be a delicious and healthy way to benefit from their cholesterol-lowering properties.
