Mushrooms have long been a staple of a variety of delicious dishes, but their benefits extend far beyond the kitchen. However, recent research suggests that the benefits of mushrooms extend far beyond the kitchen, potentially playing a key role in promoting longevity and reducing the risk of cancer. Age-related diseases,

Several studies have shed light on the impact of bioactive compounds found in mushrooms on human health. A recent study explored how these compounds, particularly ergothioneine, an antioxidant amino acid present in fungi and bacteria, may help enhance human health. LifetimeThe researchers stressed the importance of identifying dietary interventions that can reduce age-related diseases and contribute to healthy aging.

A study published in the Nutrition Journal showed that mushroom Consumption and lifespan. By analyzing data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, which included 15,000 participants over 20 years, researchers found that people who regularly consumed mushrooms had a 16 percent lower risk of premature death. In addition, replacing one serving of processed meat per day with mushrooms was associated with at least a 35 percent reduction in the risk of premature death.

The health benefits of mushrooms are primarily due to ergothioneine, which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. Researchers believe that ergothioneine may help prevent telomere shortening, a process associated with aging and chronic diseases. Telomeres, often described as protective “caps” for chromosomes, play an important role in maintaining cellular health. Long telomeres are generally associated with longevity, while short telomeres are associated with aging and a higher risk of chronic degenerative diseases.

One study involving participants over the age of 60 found that people with short telomeres were three times more likely to die from heart disease and at least eight times more likely to die from infections than people with long telomeres. Another preliminary study published in 2022 in the Journal of Dietary Supplements showed that treating cells with ergothioneine for eight weeks helped prevent telomeres from shortening due to oxidative stress. This finding suggests that ergothioneine may play a role in preventing DNA mutations that can lead to cancer.

Researchers concluded that ergothioneine has the potential to support healthy aging and combat conditions related to oxidative stress. Additionally, ergothioneine contributes to longevity by aiding in the replenishment and recycling of glutathione, the body’s primary antioxidant. This protective effect creates a powerful “trifecta” of anti-aging benefits: supporting long telomeres, protecting DNA, and enhancing glutathione recycling.

These findings underscore the potential of mushrooms, particularly their ergothioneine content, to serve as a valuable dietary component in promoting longevity and reducing the risk of age-related diseases. As research continues to explore the health benefits of mushrooms, they are likely to become an important element in strategies aimed at increasing both lifespan and overall well-being.

Get the latest news on Times Now as well as breaking news and top headlines from across health and the world.