Medicinal mushrooms are emerging as essential players for health, not only thanks to their individual therapeutic properties but also through their complex interaction with the intestinal microbiota.
This topic is attracting growing interest among researchers and health professionals.
Let's explore how these mushrooms can positively influence our microbiota and, in turn, strengthen our overall health.
Medicinal mushrooms: a wealth of natural benefits
Beta-glucans and immunity
Among the most studied active components of medicinal mushrooms are beta-glucans.
These polysaccharides have shown significant effects on the immune system.
Found in mushrooms such as Reishi and Shiitake , beta-glucans work by activating immune cells such as macrophages, NK cells and T lymphocytes.
● Immune boost: Beta-glucans stimulate the production of cytokines, thus promoting a rapid and effective immune response.
● Anti-cancer properties: By boosting immunity, they also help prevent the proliferation of cancer cells.
● Reduced blood sugar: They help maintain healthy blood sugar levels
Adaptogens and hormonal balance
Medicinal mushrooms like Chaga and Lion's Mane are known for their adaptogenic properties.
These mushrooms help the body adapt to stress, thereby regulating hormonal levels and supporting mental balance.
Essential nutrients
In addition to beta-glucans, medicinal mushrooms provide a multitude of essential nutrients such as vitamins B, D, selenium, and various antioxidants.
These elements play a crucial role in maintaining optimal health.
The intestinal microbiota: guardian of overall health
Importance of the microbiome
The gut microbiota, often called the "second brain", is a dynamic collection of microorganisms living in our intestines.
It plays a central role in digestion, vitamin synthesis and modulation of immunity.
The gut-brain axis
The two-way communication between the gut and brain, known as the gut-brain axis, profoundly influences our emotional and cognitive well-being.
The microbiota produces neurotransmitters like serotonin that affect our mood.
Interaction between medicinal mushrooms and microbiota
Natural prebiotics
Some medicinal mushrooms act as prebiotics, providing fuel for the beneficial bacteria residing in our gut.
This interaction strengthens microbial diversity, essential for good digestive health.
Natural antimicrobials
Mushrooms like Reishi contain antimicrobial compounds that help control populations of disease-causing bacteria without disrupting the good bacteria.
This helps maintain an optimal microbial balance.
Modulation of intestinal immunity
Medicinal mushroomsalso influence the microbiota by modulatingintestinal immunity.
Beta-glucans can activate immune cells in the intestine, strengthening the mucosal barrier against infections.
So, come and discover these mushrooms at French Mush in the form of powders or capsules, and benefit from their multiple benefits.
See you soon for a next French Mush article!
Sources :
A critical review on health promoting benefits of edible mushrooms through gut microbiota M Jayachandran, J Xiao, B Xu
Role of dietary edible mushrooms in the modulation of gut microbiota Author links open overlay panel Miaoyu Li a b, Leilei Yu a b c, Jianxin Zhao a b c, Hao Zhang a b c d e, Wei Chen a b c g, Qixiao Zhai a b f, Fengwei Tian
The Impact of Mushroom Polysaccharides on Gut Microbiota and Its Beneficial Effects to Host: A Review
Author links open overlay panel Chaomin Yin a b c, Giuliana D. Noratto c, Xiuzhi Fan a b, Zheya Chen a, Fen Yao a b, Defang Shi a b, Hong Gao a
Effects of Rich in Β-Glucans Edible Mushrooms on Aging Gut Microbiota Characteristics: An In Vitro Study