Health
Middle-aged mice fed golden oyster mushrooms had healthier hearts, suggesting an antioxidant in the fungi protects against the effects of ageing
By Grace Wade
Regularly eating golden oyster mushrooms protected heart health and promoted longevity in mice.
Golden oyster mushrooms (Pleurotus citrinopileatus) – fungi native to parts of Russia, China and Japan – are one of the richest natural sources of an antioxidant called ergothioneine. Studies in humans have shown the compound is associated with a lower risk of heart disease and premature death. These findings rely on observational data, however, so it isn’t clear whether ergothioneine is driving the health benefits.
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