Ergothioneine Mushrooms: Antioxidant Gold Mines

We often receive our daily intake of antioxidants from fruits and vegetables. But what many people don’t know is that they can also get them through powerful antioxidant supplements containing ergothioneine. 

What is ergothioneine, exactly? It’s an amino acid and antioxidant produced by bacteria and fungi, primarily found in mushrooms. Edible mushrooms are one of the top dietary sources for ergothioneine. And while it may not be a nutrient you typically look to add to your diet, its many beneficial properties are significant enough to warrant your attention. Ergothioneine mushrooms can function as powerful antioxidants when incorporated into your daily regimen.^‡ 

Everything You Need To Know About Ergothioneine 

Ergothioneine, also known as "ergo," is a natural amino acid synthesized by bacteria and fungi. Amino acids are molecules that make proteins. They are essential to the body as they can repair body tissue and support energy levels, hormone growth, and immune health.^‡

Ergo is also a powerful antioxidant and protectant against free radicals—molecules that can cause oxidative stress and cell damage. When free radicals are created in the body, they can outnumber your body's level of antioxidants.

Excess free radicals lead to oxidative stress—an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body. A balance between free radicals and antioxidants is necessary for proper biological function. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals by donating an electron, making them essential to your diet. Free radicals develop from normal metabolic processes in the human body or from exposure to air pollutants, X-rays, and industrial chemicals. 

Now that you understand the importance of antioxidants to balance our body's oxidative stress state, you can see why ergo is a great supportive option for anyone looking to optimize their health.

What Are Ergothioneine Mushrooms?

As mentioned before, ergo is only produced by bacteria and fungi, which is why mushrooms are one of the top dietary sources for this antioxidant. While ergo can be found in other foods such as beans, kidney, and liver, mushrooms such as maitake and shiitake contain the highest concentrated amount of it. Other species that contain ergo include king trumpet and king oyster. 

You can find ergothioneine in supplements for fast and easy consumption. Since many people may not include edible mushrooms in their diets, getting this antioxidant in a convenient and supplemental way is an ideal alternative.

Combining Ergothioneine With Mushroom Powder for Better Health

Mushroom powder is derived from harvested mushrooms that have been heated to dehydrate and ground into a powdered form. The powdered form allows mushrooms to be separated into recommended doses for a variety of nutrients. Maitake mushrooms are known to contain high levels of ergo and can be consumed in multiple ways. Maitake mushroom powder, for example, is a simple option for incorporating this antioxidant powerhouse into your daily wellness routine.

At Om Mushroom Superfood®, our mushroom powder blends are created from functional, whole food, and organic mushrooms. Our Maitake Organic Mushroom Powder offers a range of benefits, including support for the following:

• Immune health^‡ 
• Healthy blood sugar levels^‡ 
• Weight management^‡ 

Simply add one teaspoon of our powder blend daily to your coffee, smoothies, or a recipe of your choice to experience the amazing taste and associated benefits. 

As with any supplement, we always recommend you speak with your healthcare provider before taking a mushroom supplement.

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^‡These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Functional mushroom products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.