Sarah Brown
Mushrooms are a fungus that has been used in Eastern medicine for thousands of years. They are a source of various vitamins, minerals, and
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cancer prevention | Mushrooms contain ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant that prevents or slows cellular damage. |
| Lower cholesterol | Shiitake mushrooms contain compounds that inhibit the production and absorption of cholesterol, lowering overall cholesterol levels in the blood. |
| Cardiovascular health | Mushrooms are low in sodium, helping to lower blood pressure. They also contain antioxidants and nutrients that may contribute to heart health. |
| Cognitive function | Lion's mane mushrooms have been shown to improve cognitive health and enhance memory by boosting nerve growth. |
| Immune system | Mushrooms are a source of antioxidants and vitamins, boosting the immune system. Turkey tail mushrooms contain polysaccharide-K (PSK), which stimulates the immune system and is used as an anticancer treatment in Japan. |
| Energy | Mushrooms are stimulating and can boost energy levels. |
| Mood | Mushrooms contain compounds such as triterpene, which may improve mood and alleviate anxiety. |
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Cancer prevention
Mushrooms have been linked to cancer prevention and treatment for hundreds of years, especially in Asian countries like Japan and China. In recent times, there have been over 2,000 studies focused on the link between mushrooms and cancer, with most studies conducted in Asia.
Mushrooms are rich in vitamins, nutrients, and antioxidants, and are packed with vitamin D, which is essential for the immune system. They contain biologically active polysaccharides in their fruit bodies or mycelia. The -glucans of mushrooms resemble bacterial cell walls and complex with complement on macrophages to activate an immune response, triggering the release of various cytokines that are active in tumour inhibition.
Some studies have shown that cancer patients who take mushrooms may live longer, with improved quality of life indicators such as improved appetite, improved physical and mental competency, and reduced fatigue. In one study, patients with Stage I, II, or III lung cancer who took maitake D-fraction, a bioactive extract, saw response rates increase from 12% to 28%, and chemotherapy side effects were reduced. Another study showed that patients with advanced cancer who took whole glucan particle (WGP) β-glucan along with PD-1/PD-L1-checkpoint-blocking antibodies experienced improved progression-free survival.
However, it is important to note that the studies conducted have limitations. For example, almost all studies about mushrooms have been done in Asia, so it is unclear if patients in other parts of the world will respond in the same way due to potential differences in metabolism and metabolic enzymes. Most studies have also focused on specific types of cancer, so the impact on other forms of cancer is less understood. While mushroom supplements are available, it is important to note that they are not all created equal, and it is recommended that individuals consult their doctor before using mushrooms during cancer treatment.
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Brain health
Mushrooms have been used as medicine for their antimicrobial effects and powerful healing benefits for centuries. They are packed with healthy fibre, polysaccharides, and minerals, making them a superfood for brain health.
Lion's mane mushrooms, also known as Hericium erinaceus, hou tou gu, or yamabushitake, are used in traditional Chinese medicine and have been studied for their positive impact on the brain and body. They are considered a nootropic, which means they can boost nerve cell growth and maintain healthy nerve cells. This is particularly beneficial for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's, Dementia, and Parkinson’s. Lion's mane mushrooms contain two special compounds, hericenones and erinacines, that stimulate the growth of brain cells and promote nerve growth, which can help protect the brain from Alzheimer's-related damage. Animal studies have also shown that lion's mane extract can help regenerate brain cells and improve the functioning of the hippocampus, a region of the brain responsible for memories and emotional responses.
Additionally, lion's mane mushrooms have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties. They can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression and may also lower blood sugar and raise insulin levels, as seen in animal studies.
Chaga mushrooms are another variety that has been studied for their brain health benefits. They have been shown to decrease oxidative stress, boost serotonin, and reduce inflammation in the brain. Chaga has been tested as a solution for amnesia with impressive results and may help improve learning, memory, and attention span.
Cordyceps, a popular remedy in Chinese medicine, is another mushroom variety that acts as an antioxidant, boosting cellular health in the brain and improving cognitive function.
While the benefits of these mushrooms for brain health are promising, it is important to note that most of the research has been conducted on animals or in test tubes, and more human studies are needed to confirm their effectiveness and safety.
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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
Mushrooms are adept at immune modulation and can affect hematopoietic stem cells, lymphocytes, macrophages, T cells, dendritic cells (DCs), and natural killer (NK) cells. They are a powerful source of ergothioneine, an amino acid and antioxidant that prevents or slows cellular damage. Research has shown that eating just 18 grams of mushrooms a day may lower your risk of cancer by as much as 45%.
Turkey tail mushrooms, in particular, have been shown to improve the survival rate of people with leukemia and improve the immune system of people receiving chemotherapy. This is due to the presence of a compound called polysaccharide-K (PSK), which stimulates the immune system. PSK is so effective that it is an approved anticancer prescription drug in Japan.
Other mushrooms with immune-boosting properties include lion's mane, shiitake, maitake, reishi, and cordyceps. These mushrooms contain high amounts of antioxidants and other compounds that can improve immune response, alleviate anxiety, and boost energy levels.
While the research on the health benefits of mushrooms is ongoing and solid evidence for humans is still needed, they are certainly a nutritious addition to any diet and may provide a natural boost to the immune system.
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Cardiovascular health
Mushrooms have been the subject of numerous studies investigating their potential to boost cardiovascular health. While some evidence suggests that they may positively impact cardiovascular health, other studies have found no significant health benefits.
One study found that oyster mushrooms improved blood sugar control and reduced cholesterol, triglyceride, and blood pressure levels. These factors are linked to better cardiovascular health. However, the authors of this study caution that the risk of bias was high or unclear, and more rigorous research is needed to confirm these findings.
Mushrooms are a source of antioxidants and vitamins, including vitamin D, and are low in fat and calories. They contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties, which may contribute to reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, mushrooms are a leading dietary source of an anti-inflammatory and antioxidative amino acid called ergothioneine, which has been linked to better cardiovascular function and a lower risk of early death from heart or blood vessel diseases.
The fiber in mushrooms, particularly a type of soluble fiber called beta-glucans, may also contribute to cardiovascular health. Beta-glucans form a gel-like substance in the gastrointestinal tract, trapping cholesterol and triglycerides and preventing their absorption during digestion. This process helps to lower blood cholesterol levels. Furthermore, mushrooms contain potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure and may reduce the risk of hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
While the evidence is mixed, incorporating mushrooms into a healthy and varied diet may potentially offer some benefits for cardiovascular health. However, it is important to opt for fresh or dried mushrooms rather than powders or supplements to obtain the full benefits of this fungal food.
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Energy and mood
Mushrooms have been used for their medicinal properties for thousands of years in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic practices. They have gained popularity in recent years, showing up in alternative coffee drinks and health store supplements.
Some mushrooms are adaptogens, meaning they may help reduce the negative effects of stress on the body and promote normal functioning during stressful times. For example, Lion's Mane is thought to have adaptogenic effects. Rodent studies have shown that Lion's Mane extract may help reverse stress-related changes to neurotransmitters, including dopamine and serotonin. Research on young adults found that a single dose of Lion's Mane improved performance on psychological tests and reduced subjective stress after 28 days of supplementation.
Mushrooms may also boost energy levels. Unlike caffeine, which provides a sharp spike and drop in energy levels, some medicinal mushrooms offer a more subtle boost. They can support energy by enhancing cognitive performance, reducing fatigue, managing stress, or providing antioxidative protection. Cordyceps, for example, is a stimulating type of fungus that boosts energy and the libido. Chaga is also known for its energy-boosting properties, decreasing fatigue and enhancing mental clarity.
In addition, mushrooms may have a positive impact on mood. Reishi, for instance, is known for its calming properties, which may help alleviate anxiety. Furthermore, a systematic evaluation of epidemiological and clinical studies revealed a significant benefit of dietary patterns that included mushrooms on cognition and mood in both healthy and compromised populations.
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Frequently asked questions
Consuming mushrooms may boost your immunity, energy, and mental sharpness.
Mushrooms are a source of antioxidants and vitamins, which may help prevent several health conditions, such as cancer and diabetes, when consumed as part of a nutritionally balanced diet.
Turkey tail mushrooms contain a compound called polysaccharide-K (PSK) that stimulates the immune system. Maitake mushrooms have also been studied for their immune-boosting properties.
Yes, mushrooms can boost energy. Cordyceps mushrooms are known for being stimulating for both energy and the libido.
Yes, lion's mane mushrooms are known to boost nerve growth and enhance memory.
