Mushrooms are being studied for more than their nutritional value. Some varieties contain antioxidants that may help protect cells from oxidative stress, a process linked to ageing and certain chronic diseases.
Two compounds have attracted particular interest: ergothioneine and glutathione. However, mushrooms are not a proven treatment for ageing or age-related conditions.
Why Are Mushrooms Linked to Healthy Ageing?..READ THE FULL ARTICLE HERE .
The body produces free radicals during normal metabolism. Environmental factors can also increase oxidative stress.
Excessive oxidative stress may damage cells and biological molecules. Because mushrooms contain antioxidants, researchers are investigating whether they may help reduce this damage.
The amounts of ergothioneine and glutathione vary between mushroom species.
Ergothioneine and Glutathione
Ergothioneine is an antioxidant found in relatively high amounts in mushrooms. Glutathione is another antioxidant involved in the body’s defence against oxidative stress.
Research suggests that mushrooms can provide both compounds through the diet. Porcini mushrooms appear to contain particularly high levels, while white button mushrooms also provide meaningful amounts.
What Does the Research Show?
Laboratory research published in 2024 examined extracts from ergothioneine-rich mushrooms in neuronal cells exposed to conditions linked to cellular ageing. The extracts were associated with improved cell survival and lower levels of some ageing-related markers.
A 12-week trial involving 80 healthy women also found that an ergothioneine-rich mushroom preparation was associated with improvements in some measures of skin moisture, wrinkles and texture. However, the study was small, and further research is needed.
These findings are promising but do not prove that eating mushrooms prevents ageing or age-related disease.
Could Mushrooms Support Brain Health?
Researchers are studying whether ergothioneine may help protect nerve cells from oxidative stress.
However, evidence from laboratory or observational studies does not show that eating mushrooms prevents Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease or other neurodegenerative conditions. Clinical research is still needed.
Which Mushrooms Contain These Compounds?
The levels of ergothioneine and glutathione depend on the species and growing conditions.
Mushrooms studied for their antioxidant content include:
* Porcini mushrooms, which may contain particularly high levels.
* Shiitake mushrooms, which are also a source of ergothioneine.
* White button mushrooms, which contain lower levels than some specialty varieties but are widely available.
Can Mushrooms Make You Look Younger?
There is no evidence that mushrooms can stop ageing or reverse visible signs of ageing.
The research focuses on whether mushroom compounds may support cellular health. Early laboratory and human findings should not be described as proof of an anti-ageing effect.
How to Eat More Mushrooms
Mushrooms can be added to a balanced diet by:
* Mixing them into soups and stews.
* Adding them to eggs, rice or pasta.
* Including them in vegetable dishes.
* Using them in sauces.
* Combining different edible varieties with other whole foods.
Only eat mushrooms that have been correctly identified as safe. Some wild mushrooms are poisonous.
The Bottom Line
Mushrooms contain antioxidants, especially ergothioneine and glutathione, that may help protect cells from oxidative stress.
Early research suggests possible benefits for cellular and skin health, but mushrooms are not a proven anti-ageing treatment. They are best viewed as a nutritious food that can form part of a balanced diet.
