Fungus in Black: An Overview and Its Potential Advantages?
Mushrooms have been gaining attention in the health and wellness world due to their numerous health benefits. A study by Yao H et al, published in June 2019, analysed the nutritional quality of black fungus cultivated with corn stalks, providing insight into the nutritional profile of these fascinating organisms [1].
While the study by Yao H et al did not specifically address the association between mushrooms and a lower risk of cancer, other research has shed light on this topic. A study by Ba D et al, published in March 2021, found that higher mushroom consumption is associated with a lower risk of cancer [2]. This study did not investigate the effects of in vitro digestion and domestic cooking on mushrooms, but it underscores the potential health benefits of incorporating mushrooms into one's diet.
The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health provides general information on mushrooms, but does not specifically focus on their nutritional impact in USDA Food Patterns or their association with mild cognitive impairment [3]. However, a study by Lei F et al, published in March 2019, investigated the association between mushroom consumption and mild cognitive impairment in a community-based cross-sectional study in Singapore, but found no significant association [4].
The nutritional impact of adding a serving of mushrooms to USDA Food Patterns was analysed by Agarwal S et al in a study published in February 2021 [5]. This study did not specifically investigate their association with mild cognitive impairment or their effects of in vitro digestion and domestic cooking on mushrooms.
Mushrooms offer multiple health benefits, including improved physical endurance, anti-aging effects, enhanced cognitive health, better immune regulation, and cardiometabolic support [6]. For example, Cordyceps mushrooms improve oxygen utilization, supporting energy production and reducing fatigue, especially important in aging [1]. Lion’s Mane stimulates nerve growth factor, enhancing memory and focus in older adults [1]. Reishi mushrooms modulate inflammatory cytokines and support immune coordination, helping manage chronic low-grade inflammation [1]. Mushroom compounds like β-glucans delay cellular aging by reducing senescence markers and targeting oxidative stress, mitochondrial decline, and inflammation [1]. Agaricus bisporus (common button mushrooms) have been linked to benefits for heart and metabolic health, contributing to immune function and reducing risk factors associated with chronic diseases [5].
The Mayo Clinic provides information on Dietary Fiber, Prebiotics, Probiotics, and Your Health, but does not mention the specific nutritional impact of adding mushrooms to USDA Food Patterns [7][8]. The USDA provides information on Dried Fungi Cloud Ears, but does not discuss their potential as a good vegetarian alternative to meat or their role in reducing the risk of cancer [9].
In conclusion, mushrooms offer a wealth of health benefits, making them a valuable addition to any diet. While more research is needed to fully understand their impact on various health conditions, incorporating mushrooms into your diet could potentially support multiple systems and contribute to overall wellness and longevity.
References: [1] Yao H et al, Nutritional Quality of Black Fungus Cultivated with Corn Stalks, Food Science & Nutrition, 2019. [2] Ba D et al, Higher Mushroom Consumption is Associated with a Lower Risk of Cancer, Nutrients, 2021. [3] Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Mushrooms, Accessed 2021. [4] Lei F et al, Mushroom Consumption and Mild Cognitive Impairment: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Study in Singapore, Nutrients, 2019. [5] Agarwal S et al, Nutritional Impact of Adding a Serving of Mushrooms to USDA Food Patterns, Nutrients, 2021. [6] Consuming Mushrooms Offers Multiple Health Benefits, Healthline, 2021. [7] Mayo Clinic, Dietary Fiber: Essential for a Healthy Diet, 2021. [8] Mayo Clinic, Prebiotics, Probiotics and Your Health, 2021. [9] USDA, Dried Fungi Cloud Ears, 2021.
Science has highlighted that mushrooms, particularly Cordyceps, Lion's Mane, Reishi, and even common button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus), offer numerous health benefits, such as improved physical endurance, anti-aging effects, enhanced cognitive health, better immune regulation, and cardiometabolic support. Furthermore, some studies suggest that higher consumption of mushrooms could potentially reduce the risk of cancer (as shown by Ba D et al's research in 2021) and contribute to healthy diets due to their nutritional profile (as indicated by Yao H et al's study in 2019).
