Laura Smith
Mushrooms are an excellent source of natural antioxidants, which can help to prevent several health conditions, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. The antioxidant activity of mushrooms is due to the presence of compounds such as polyphenols, ergothioneine, and choline, which inhibit oxidation and protect against oxidative damage. Portabella and crimini mushrooms have been found to have particularly high antioxidant activity, comparable to that of carrots, green beans, red peppers, and broccoli. In addition to their antioxidant properties, mushrooms are also known for their antimicrobial and antiviral properties, as well as their potential application in pharmaceuticals. However, it is important to note that not all mushrooms are safe for human consumption, and only mushrooms from reliable sources should be consumed.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Antioxidant Activity | DPPH, ABTS, OH, Nitrite, metals, lipid peroxidation, and more |
| Common Antioxidants | Polyphenols, ergothioneine, choline, selenium, vitamin D |
| High Antioxidant Mushrooms | Portabella, crimini, lion's mane, maitake, reishi, chaga, oyster, Pleurotus, Hygrocybe conica, Malaysian G. lucidum |
| Benefits | Cancer prevention, diabetes management, improved cardiovascular health, brain health, immune system boost, antiviral properties, anti-inflammatory effects |
| Antioxidant Mechanisms | Hydrogen atom transfer (HAT), electron transfer (ET), free radical scavenging, metal deactivation, lipid hydroperoxide breakdown, primary antioxidant regeneration, singlet oxygen quenching |
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What You'll Learn
Portabella and crimini mushrooms are good sources of dietary antioxidants
The ORAC assay is the most well-known test of antioxidant capacity and focuses on the peroxyl radical, the most predominant in the human body. Free radicals, such as the peroxyl radical, are believed to contribute to the aging process and the development of diseases, including cancer, Alzheimer's, and atherosclerosis. By inhibiting oxidation, antioxidants help protect against damage to proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, and DNA.
Portabella and crimini mushrooms are not only good sources of dietary antioxidants but also offer other health benefits. Criminis, for example, contain enzymes and beneficial bacteria that can improve digestion and boost the body's immune response. They may also provide protection against certain types of cancer and help reduce the likelihood of developing high blood pressure during pregnancy.
Portabella and crimini mushrooms are part of the same species, Agaricus bisporus, with the main difference being their age at harvest. Portobellos are harvested when they are more mature, resulting in a deeper and richer flavor profile compared to criminis, which are picked at a younger stage.
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Mushrooms contain polyphenols, ergothioneine, and choline
Mushrooms are a rich source of antioxidants, including polyphenols, ergothioneine, and glutathione. Polyphenols are multifunctional antioxidants that act as reducing agents, hydrogen-donating antioxidants, and singlet oxygen quenchers. They are found in a variety of plant foods, including mushrooms, and contribute to their antioxidant capacity.
Ergothioneine is a unique sulfur-containing antioxidant that is produced only by fungi, some cyanobacteria, and mycobacteria. It is an important antioxidant that has been shown to accumulate at high levels in the body and may play a significant role in human health and disease prevention and treatment. Mushrooms are the highest dietary source of ergothioneine, with some varieties having higher levels than other foods.
Glutathione is another antioxidant found in mushrooms, and its levels are highly correlated with those of ergothioneine. Glutathione levels can vary significantly among different mushroom species, with some varieties containing higher levels than other foods.
In addition to these antioxidants, mushrooms also contain other nutrients such as riboflavin, B vitamins, selenium, copper, potassium, dietary fibre, chitin, and β-glucans. The antioxidant activity of mushrooms has been well-studied, and they are known to have potential applications in pharmaceuticals and the treatment and management of various diseases.
Portabella and crimini mushrooms, in particular, have been found to have high antioxidant activity and are comparable to colourful vegetables like carrots, green beans, red peppers, and broccoli. The antioxidant effects of mushrooms are primarily due to the presence of polyphenols, as demonstrated by research using the ORAC assay, the most well-known test of antioxidant capacity.
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Antioxidants may help prevent cancer and diabetes
Mushrooms are an excellent source of natural antioxidants, which are protective molecules that prevent damage from free radicals. Free radicals are associated with various diseases, including cancer and diabetes. Antioxidants neutralise free radicals, thereby preventing them from causing damage.
Portabella and crimini mushrooms, in particular, are good sources of dietary antioxidants, ranking alongside carrots, green beans, red peppers, and broccoli. These mushrooms contain polyphenols and ergothioneine, which are responsible for their antioxidant effects.
Research has shown that increased levels of antioxidants can prevent the types of free radical damage associated with cancer development. Laboratory studies have demonstrated that antioxidants can kill cancer cells. Epidemiological studies have also found that individuals who consume more fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants have a lower incidence of cancer.
However, the effectiveness of dietary antioxidant supplements in cancer prevention is less clear. Some studies have shown mixed results, while others have suggested that antioxidant supplements may promote tumour growth and increase the ability of circulating tumour cells to metastasize. Therefore, it is recommended to obtain antioxidants from food sources rather than supplements.
In addition to their potential cancer-fighting properties, antioxidants may also help prevent diabetes by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are risk factors for the development of diabetes. By including a variety of mushrooms in the diet, along with other antioxidant-rich foods, individuals may be able to lower their risk of developing chronic diseases like cancer and diabetes.
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Mushrooms are a source of antiviral and anti-COVID-19 antioxidants
Mushrooms have been shown to have antiviral effects against SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The chaga mushroom (Inonotus obliquus) and Grifola frondosa are two species that have demonstrated promising antiviral effects. Furthermore, mushroom extracts and bioactive substances can hinder viral adsorption, replication, and the proliferation of pathogens.
Ganoderma, a type of mushroom with a rich history of therapeutic applications, is another promising candidate for combating COVID-19. Its secondary metabolites, including triterpenoids, polysaccharides, and glycoproteins, exhibit antiviral mechanisms such as inhibiting viral replication and modulating immune responses.
In addition to their antiviral properties, mushrooms are also a source of antioxidants. Portabella and crimini mushrooms, for example, contain high levels of polyphenols and ergothioneine, which are powerful antioxidants that can protect against oxidative damage. Oxidative stress is linked to various disorders, including metabolic disease, heart disease, neural disorders, and certain cancers. By consuming mushrooms, individuals can benefit from their antioxidant properties and potentially reduce the risk of these diseases.
Overall, mushrooms offer a range of health benefits due to their antiviral and antioxidant properties. They have the potential to be used as supplements and natural antiviral drugs, as well as providing protection against oxidative damage and contributing to overall health and longevity.
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Oyster mushrooms can help reduce cholesterol
Mushrooms have become increasingly popular due to their high nutritional value, taste, and aroma. They are also an excellent source of natural antioxidants, which can be used in pharmaceuticals and in treating and managing different diseases.
Oyster mushrooms, in particular, are known for their exquisite texture and rich flavor profile. They also play a significant role in supporting cardiovascular health through their cholesterol-lowering properties. Oyster mushrooms are rich in beta-glucans, a type of fiber that significantly reduces cholesterol absorption in the digestive system. They also contain unique compounds that can inhibit cholesterol synthesis in the liver, further improving their heart-healthy benefits.
In a study, 20 subjects were given either one portion of soup containing 30g of dried oyster mushrooms or a tomato soup as a placebo daily for 21 days. The treatment with oyster mushroom soup decreased triacylglycerol concentrations and oxidized low-density lipoprotein levels significantly, and showed a significant tendency to lower total cholesterol values.
Oyster mushrooms are also believed to support liver health and may aid in reducing blood sugar levels, making them a valuable addition to a health-conscious diet. They have also been shown to reduce blood glucose, blood pressure, and cholesterol in diabetic subjects without any deleterious effects on the liver and kidneys.
Overall, oyster mushrooms are a culinary delight and a valuable natural food source that can help reduce cholesterol levels and promote a healthy cardiovascular system.
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Frequently asked questions
No. While many mushrooms contain antioxidants, some species are toxic to humans and should be avoided. Always buy mushrooms from a reliable source and, if foraging for wild mushrooms, make sure you can identify which are safe to eat.
Portabella and crimini mushrooms have been found to have high ORAC values, a measure of antioxidant capacity. Other edible mushrooms with antioxidant properties include oyster mushrooms, lion's mane mushrooms, maitake mushrooms, and hen of the woods mushrooms.
Mushrooms are an excellent source of natural antioxidants with potential applications in pharmaceuticals and in treating and managing different diseases. The antioxidants in mushrooms can help to prevent several health conditions, such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease, when consumed as part of a nutritionally balanced diet.
Mushroom antioxidants act in varying stages and via different mechanisms. There are two main types: primary (chain-breaking, free-radical scavengers) and secondary or preventive. Mushroom antioxidants can also act as pro-oxidants in certain oxidation-reduction reactions.
