The Hidden Power of Mushrooms (2024)

The results of a population study published in 2021 were striking:

Among more than 15,000 participants followed over 20 years, those who regularly consumed mushrooms had a 16% lower risk of death.

Those who had just one serving a day of mushrooms rather than red or processed meat saw a staggering 35% decrease in all-cause mortality.¹

Scientists believe one particular amino acid found in mushrooms may be the secret to their health benefits: L-ergothioneine.

This compound is so essential to human health, our cell membranes have transporters specifically to deliver L-ergothioneine into cells.

In preclinical studies this amino acid has been shown to defend against DNA damage^2,3 and telomeres shortening.⁴ Other preclinical studies show ergothioneine has brain-protective properties.^5,6

Multiple studies including prospective a randomized-placebo controlled trial have indicated an important role for ergothioneine in preserving brain and cognitive function.^7-10

And, an innovative prospective observational study found that higher ergothioneine was significantly associated with better heart health outcomes.¹¹

What Is L-Ergothioneine?

L-ergothioneine is an amino acid found in relatively high concentrations in mushrooms and other fungi, and in smaller amounts in a few other foods.^12,13

Our bodies can't produce it, yet we have dedicated transporter proteins that shuttle L-ergothioneine from diet into cells throughout the body.¹⁰

Due to the high specificity of this transporter for ergothioneine, it can transport L-ergothioneine 100 times more efficiently than other compounds. And this transporter can be found in cells and tissues throughout the body, so that ergothioneine is widely distributed.^10,14

Dysregulated oxidative stress may be a potential driver of aging and chronic disease.¹⁵ L-ergothioneine can promote the glutathione regeneration cycle.¹⁴

It may allow more glutathione to be preserved.^9,13

A preclinical study showed that L-ergothioneine can neutralize harmful oxidizing compounds before they damage mitochondria and other cellular structures.¹⁶

Promoting Healthier Aging

L-ergothioneine may be a powerful ally in slowing aging.

Tissues that are typically exposed to higher levels of damaging oxidative stress, such as eyes, brain, and red blood cells, have higher concentrations of L-ergothioneine transporters, indicating that these tissues have a greater need for this beneficial compound.¹⁰

One study of 15,546 adults found that those who consumed mushrooms had a 16% lower mortality risk over a 20-year period than those who did not eat mushrooms. Replacing a single serving of processed or red meat with mushrooms was associated with a 35% decrease in death from all causes.¹ The study authors suggested that the benefits of the mushroom-rich diet may be attributable to their ergothioneine content.¹

Preserving Telomeres

Telomeres, the protective caps on the ends of chromosomes, shorten with age. This shortening is a marker of aging and has been associated with decreased lifespan.

Maintaining telomere length is a major focus of anti-aging research.

In a human cell study, researchers found that L-ergothioneine treatment significantly reduced the rate of telomere shortening.⁴ This action may help maintain cellular vitality and promote longevity.

This study achieved significant results in only a short eight-week period. Results were even more dramatic in cells exposed to additional oxidative stress conditions.⁴

Researchers believe L-ergothioneine may preserve telomeres by activating telomerase, the enzyme that lengthens telomere caps, which typically isn't active in healthy adult cells.

Guarding DNA

Our DNA is constantly damaged, both by normal metabolic processes and by outside influences like ultraviolet (UV) radiation and pollution. Failure to repair damaged DNA can lead to mutations, cellular dysfunction, and increased risk of cancer.¹⁷

L-ergothioneine appears to be able to protect DNA integrity by enhancing cellular repair functions and blocking some of the damage that can cause breaks and mutations.

For example, it can absorb UV light at the same wavelengths that DNA does, acting as a built-in sunscreen in skin cells that may protect against skin cancer. Preclinical evidence also shows that it can help support DNA repair processes in cells exposed to UV radiation and other DNA-damaging agents.^2,18

Preserving Brain Function

L-ergothioneine and its transporter are present throughout the brain, in multiple regions, including those involved in cognitive function, learning and memory.⁶ Several studies have linked L-ergothioneine to better brain health.

Studies have found that the decline in blood levels of this amino acid have been observed in people showing signs of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative conditions than healthy adults.^8,9,19 This suggests that L-ergothioneine has a potential role in maintaining cognitive function and brain health as we age.^9,20

In a preclinical studies L-ergothionine has enhanced memory by promoting nerve cell maturation,²¹ and the formation of new neurons,⁶ vital for learning and memory.

By protecting brain cells from oxidative stress, L-ergothioneine may help preserve cognitive function. In one prospective observational study, people aged 60 and over had lower ergothioneine blood levels, and those with mild cognitive impairment had especially low levels.⁹

In a trial in both healthy adults and individuals with mild cognitive impairment, consumption of a mushroom extract containing 5 mg of L-ergothioneine daily for 12 weeks resulted in significant improvements in verbal memory, working memory, sustained attention, and other measures of cognitive function compared to a placebo group.⁷

Cardiovascular Health

Research also shows that higher L-ergothioneine levels are associated with improved cardiovascular health.¹¹

A population study involving more than 3,200 subjects found that higher levels of L-ergothioneine in body were associated with a 15% lower risk of coronary artery disease, a 21% reduction in cardiovascular mortality, and a 14% reduction in overall mortality.¹¹

Daily L-ergothioneine intake may promote improved heart, brain, and overall health well into older age.

Summary

Scientists believe that the amino acid L-ergothioneine may be the key compound in mushrooms responsible for their health-promoting benefits.

It can combat oxidative stress, slow the rate of telomere shortening, preserve cardiovascular health and cognitive function, and support DNA repair.

In a population study, those consuming mushrooms high in L-ergothioneine had a significantly lower risk of death.

Those who don't include mushrooms in their daily diet may consider L-ergothioneine supplements.

If you have any questions on the scientific content of this article, please call a Life Extension Wellness Specialist at 1-866-864-3027.

References

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