STORY AT-A-GLANCE
Ergothioneine, a sulfur-containing amino acid found in mushrooms, is a powerhouse when it comes to promoting longevity
Out of 112 measured plasma metabolites, ergothioneine is the metabolite most significantly associated with lower morbidity and mortality, being associated with a lower risk of coronary artery disease, stroke and death of all causes
In 2005, scientists discovered that most human tissues have a highly specific carnitine-based transporter for ergothioneine, which suggests humans are designed to eat and reap specific benefits from mushrooms
Ergothioneine has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimutagenic and cytoprotectant properties, and research shows depletion of ergothioneine leads to higher oxidative stress and cell death
Mushrooms that contain ergothioneine include pine mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, shiitake, king boletes, porcinis, chanterelles, lion’s mane and Enokitake, just to name a few. Porcini, shiitake, oyster, maitake and king oyster typically contain the highest amounts