Most people fear dementia more than they fear death — so prevention of brain decline matters at any age, according to Dr. Terry Shintani, MD, a Harvard-trained physician and nutritionist.
The research
Researchers studying factors that prevent cognitive decline found a surprising result: people who ate mushrooms two or more times a week had 57% less mild cognitive impairment compared to those who ate mushrooms less than once a week.
Why mushrooms may protect the brain
Researchers believe this effect may be due to ergothioneine, a neuroprotective nutrient found in high amounts in mushrooms. Ergothioneine appears to help protect brain and nerve cells against oxidative damage, and may also help promote the growth of new brain cells.
The takeaway
To help cut cognitive impairment and stay sharp, consider eating more mushrooms. For a list of 15 supplements for brain health, get Dr. Shintani’s free eBook, Health Secrets, at peacediet.org.
Sources: Mushroom consumption and cognitive impairment — National University of Singapore study, 2019; Ergothioneine: antioxidative, neuroprotective compound from mushrooms; NLM Native Voices