Miller: Eating mushrooms and brain health – Deming Headlight

Larry R. Miller, For the Headlight Published 9:26 a.m. MT Feb. 27, 2017 | Updated 17 hours ago

Columnist Larry R. Miller(Photo: Courtesy Photo)

Recently scientists reviewed multiple studies that covered the effects of mushrooms on brain health. Their conclusion: fungi have a preventive function against the development of Alzheimers disease.

Another study showed that mushrooms contain compounds that boost brain nerves, increase gray matter and can help prevent Alzheimers disease.

Research studies have found mushrooms contain antioxidant chemicals that protect against the inflammation that leads to cognitive decline. Inflammation is also the root cause of many other different diseases.

The compounds in mushrooms accomplish their cognitive benefits by boosting production of a chemical called nerve growth factor which in turn increases the brains gray matter. Nerve growth factor has also been found to increase the lifespan of brain cells and their ability to function at a higher level.

Another small Japanese research study involved seven people from 50 t0 80 who suffered from dementia. The study participants were evaluated before and after the study period for their Functional Independence Measure (FIM). FIM includes both physical and mental capabilities: eating, dressing, walking, communication, memory and understanding. The study lasted six months during which time the participants were fed 5 grams of dried lions mane mushrooms a day in a soup.

Six of the seven participants showed dramatic improvement and all seven improved their FIM score. The researchers conclusion? The cognitive benefits connected with mushrooms can dramatically improve the lives of Alzheimers patients.

A Chinese study and another done in Kuala Lumpur found mushrooms increase brain function in rats and humans.

Mushrooms have other benefits too.

Shitake mushrooms were found to protect your liver and relieve stomach ailments and have shown promise against stomach cancer. They contain antiviral and antibacterial properties and have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat the common cold.

Reishi, the Mushroom of Immortality, boosts the immune system, promotes prostate health, lowers blood pressure and can ease arthritis pain.

A relative of the common white button mushroom called Himematsutake has shown to have promising anticancer properties and they help decrease insulin resistance in diabetics.

Mushrooms have been shown to help lower blood pressure and are high in vitamin B3 AKA niacin. Niacin increases the bodys ability to rid itself of toxic buildup.

A study on mice done in Japan found a mushroom supplement was capable of accomplishing complete cancerous sarcoma tumor regression.

Mushrooms are high in the health beneficial minerals selenium, iron and copper.

For more health information plus outdoor and nature photography, follow me on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/larry.miller.14268769.

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Miller: Eating mushrooms and brain health - Deming Headlight