4 Ways Shitake Mushrooms Work To Support Immune Health
Mushrooms have entered the mainstream in the past several years. Not only do they make an excellent replacement for meat in vegan diets, but many varieties also contain medicinal properties. Among those is the Shitake (Lentinula edodes) mushroom. Numerous qualities of this humble mushroom native to East Asia have been identified and researched for its ability to provide immune support when used as a dietary supplement. Now, more than ever, this is critical to ensuring a healthy population.
1. Provide High Nutritional Content
The health benefits of mushrooms has been recognized for centuries. Modern science is showing that this may be in part thanks to their high nutritional content. According to this 2014 review of the nutritional and medicinal properties of Shitake mushrooms, they contain a high level of trace minerals and polysaccharides that contribute to health. Polysaccharides, in particular, are known as immune response modulators, are anti-viral and may help combat certain types of tumors. A mushroom-based dietary supplement which preserves these nutritional values may provide significant health benefits.
2. Reduce Inflammation
A 2011 Study conducted at the University of Florida revealed that consuming Lentinula edodes daily for four weeks appears to lower inflammation levels. This effect was represented by observed changes in cytokine and serum CRP levels among study participants. Chronic inflammation occurs when the immune system fails to deactivate. It creates a cycle of tissue damage and repair that can eventually lead to or compound severe health conditions, including heart disease, osteoarthritis and inflammatory bowel disorders.
3. Encourage T Cell Formation
T-cells are always present in the body. When they encounter the specific antigen, they are designed to protect against. There are several types of T cells, and research has shown that L. edodes consumption can significantly increase the production of both gamma delta T and natural killer T types. Additionally, they appear to improve the expression of activation receptors in these cells to produce a more robust immune response.
4. Provide Antioxidant Effects
Oxidative stress causes cellular damage that can advance aging and interfere with the body's ability to fight off infection. L-ergothioneine within Shitake mushrooms produces a strong antioxidant effect that works to slow this process.
Supporting a robust immune system can help you avoid illness and may help prevent the development of chronic health conditions. There is strong evidence that regular supplementation with mushrooms, including L. edodes, can support immune health and reduce inflammation. When you are ready to choose a mushroom supplement, consider The Herban Shaman Mushroom Immune Support. Manufactured in the U.S., it is an organic and vegan-friendly dietary supplement packed with a high-quality blend of 14 medicinal mushrooms to support your overall wellness.
Sources:
https://file.scirp.org/pdf/FNS_2014062611410421.pdf
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25866155/
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/1934578X1100600622
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2019.00145/full
