Doctor says 'new superfood' boosts immune system and reduces inflammation
Scientific advisor Damien Bove and Dr Pamela Mason have said that two types of mushrooms could help to boost the immune system and even help with mental health
A scientific advisor and a doctor have highlighted that emerging evidence is pointing towards a common food item as the "new superfood". They've pinpointed two varieties of mushrooms that are said to bolster the immune system, aid mental health and benefit heart health.
Damien Bove, scientific advisor and founder of ADACT Medical, said: "Mushrooms have been gaining huge traction in the health and wellness world recently although their health associations go back thousands of years. Traditional Chinese Medicine incorporates mushrooms for their therapeutic properties thanks to the content of beta-glucans (a type of dietary fibre) linked with heart health and immune health.
"Mushrooms are a fungi and there are more than 10,000 types across the world some of which are edible and many of which are most definitely not. Two types of mushrooms that have come to particular attention on the health radar are Lion's Mane and Reishi."
Mr Bove, a leading figure in the realms of analysis, testing, compliance, regulation and health research, said: "The science is emerging and potential health benefits of these two different types of mushrooms include immune health. Laboratory research suggests that Lion's Mane mushrooms may help boost the activity of the intestinal immune system. Further research indicates that a protein in Lion's Mane mushrooms encourages the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that strengthen immunity. Secondary outcomes from a 2016 Cochrane review were that Reishi mushrooms could also improve immune function."
He further highlighted mental health as a significant benefit, stating: "Emerging evidence suggests that Lion's Mane mushrooms may help mental health. In a small four-week placebo-controlled study involving women with a variety of health complaints, including menopausal symptoms and poor sleep quality, participants who ate the extract reported lower levels of irritation and anxiety than those in the placebo group."
Dr Pamela Mason, a researcher, nutritionist, and advisor to ADACT Medical, also pointed out that there was evidence supporting the mushrooms' positive effects on inflammation, cardiovascular health, and cognitive health, reports Gloucestershire Live.
Dr Mason, a leading authority in analysis, testing, compliance and regulation across various health-related fields including mushrooms, stated: "Both Lion's Mane and Reishi mushrooms also demonstrate antioxidant activity which may help explain their anti-inflammatory activity.
"Lion's Mane mushrooms have also been shown to help lower cholesterol and reduce blood glucose. Reishi mushrooms too seem to protect cardiovascular health, cholesterol, blood pressure and blood vessels.
"Lab research shows Lion's Mane mushrooms improve cognitive function and further research that these mushrooms may reduce cognitive decline. Daily consumption of mushroom extract for 16 weeks in 50 to 80-year-old adults with mild cognitive impairment led to higher scores on cognitive function scales compared with a placebo group.
"Much of this research is emerging. Always check with your GP to ensure that specialised mushrooms are suitable for you especially if you have any medical conditions or take medication."
