You Eat THOSE and They're Good For You? (Mushrooms)
They’ve been all over the news for the last few years, but they’ve been in grocery stores since I was a child — and that was a long time ago. Many people eat them as food. They have a stronger nutrient profile than most people realized 40 years ago. I’ve never been fond of them. I don’t like their texture.
But as a supplement — dried and powdered — I value them.
We’re talking about mushrooms. It is estimated that there are about five million species of mushrooms. About 2,000 are known to be safe for human consumption, and only about 25 are commercially available, with eight of them being especially beneficial for health.
Generally speaking, mushrooms are good sources of selenium, potassium, riboflavin, niacin, and vitamin D.
You’ve likely heard of most of these eight.
They promote healthy glucose and lipid metabolism, have immune-supportive properties, act as prebiotics, and support the gut microbiome.
Reishi – We’ve known about reishi’s immune-supportive properties for many years. It has also been shown to help mitigate stress responses and increase overall vitality.
Lion’s Mane – Recognized for its benefits to brain health. Studies suggest it may enhance memory and cognition.
Cordyceps – Studies suggest it may benefit exercise endurance and strength. It appears to help the body use oxygen more efficiently and offers adaptogenic, antioxidant, and immune-supportive properties.
Maitake – Also beneficial for immune support.
Shiitake – Supports immune health, helps rebalance inflammatory responses, and promotes antioxidant activity.
Chaga – Supports immune system function and response.
Agaricus – May activate macrophages and natural killer (NK) cells involved in immune response.
Turkey Tail – Immune-modulating and supports antioxidant activity.
Common Button Mushroom (Agaricus) – Also immune-supportive. Some sources suggest it may have antiproliferative effects, potentially supporting chemotherapy, and may help reduce insulin resistance.
Why are so many mushrooms so beneficial?
They contain a substance called ergothioneine (EGT).
Research into the effects and benefits of EGT is showing considerable promise.
First, EGT crosses the blood-brain barrier and appears to help regulate normal inflammation in the brain. Studies suggest improvements in learning, support for age-related cognitive changes, enhanced stress resilience, and deeper, more restorative sleep.
EGT does not readily break down in the body and may even be stored. It appears to activate enzymes that support antioxidant status.
EGT may also support anti-aging proteins called sirtuins, as well as mitochondria — the energy powerhouses of our cells.
If you enjoy eating mushrooms, keep at it! If you’re like me and are not fond of the texture of fungi, Nature's Sunshine has you covered.
My Immune Defense (NSP)
Contains agaricus (common button mushroom), reishi, turkey tail, shiitake, cordyceps, and chaga. This powder mixes well with many foods.
Cordyceps (NSP)
Encapsulated — this is one of my favorites!
References
https://www.casi.org/5-benefits-ergothioneine
https://www.casi.org/8-clinically-relevant-mushrooms-2025
https://www.casi.org/immune-supportive-properties-of-mushrooms
