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Mushrooms as future generation healthy foods
V Bell1, C R P G Silva2, J Guina3
1Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Coimbra, Pólo das Ciências da Saúde, Coimbra, Portugal.
Frontiers in Nutrition
|December 23, 2022
Summary
Edible mushrooms are a rich source of bioactive compounds, offering significant health benefits for disease prevention and immune support. These functional foods act as nutraceuticals, enhancing gut health and potentially supporting neurological functions.
Area of Science:
- Mycology
- Nutritional Science
- Preventative Healthcare
Background:
- Edible mushrooms are an underutilized food source, rich in bioactive molecules often deficient in other foods.
- Historically used in traditional medicine, their full potential in modern diets and biopharma remains largely untapped.
- Mushrooms offer unique compounds like ergothioneine and non-digestible oligosaccharides, crucial for human health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the potential of edible mushrooms as functional foods and nutraceuticals.
- To review their role in preventative healthcare, immune system support, and disease prevention.
- To explore their therapeutic potential, including antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and neurogenic properties.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on edible mushroom composition and health effects.
- Analysis of bioactive compounds, including ergothioneine and prebiotics.
- Examination of research on mushroom's impact on the immune system, gut microbiota, and neurological health.
Main Results:
- Mushrooms provide essential bioactive molecules, acting as a functional food for disease prevention.
- They possess antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-neoplastic properties, with ergothioneine showing therapeutic promise.
- Mushroom consumption enhances gut homeostasis via prebiotic activity and positively impacts neurological functions.
Conclusions:
- Edible mushrooms are next-generation foods with significant potential for supporting health and wellness.
- Their unique nutritional profile and bioactive compounds position them as promising prophylactic and therapeutic agents.
- Further research and inclusion in dietary guidelines can unlock the full health benefits of these valuable fungi.
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