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Agaricus Bisporus

Also known as: Agaricus bisporus, White button mushroom, Champignon mushroom, Common mushroom

Overview

Agaricus bisporus, commonly known as the white button mushroom, is the most widely consumed mushroom globally. It is cultivated in controlled environments and available in fresh or processed forms. This mushroom is valued as a functional food and dietary supplement due to its potential health benefits, including cardiometabolic support, immune modulation, and as a source of vitamin D when UV-exposed. Agaricus bisporus is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and bioactive compounds such as ergothioneine, ergosterol (provitamin D2), glucans, and flavonoids, while being low in calories and fat. Research on Agaricus bisporus includes human trials, but more extensive and long-term studies are needed to fully understand its effects.

Benefits

Consumption of Agaricus bisporus is associated with favorable effects on glucose metabolism and lipid profiles. Studies have reported reductions in total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol, along with improvements in HDL-cholesterol. Some research indicates improved satiety and modest anti-inflammatory effects. The mushroom's antioxidant and immune-modulating effects are attributed to its glucans and ergothioneine content. UV-exposed Agaricus bisporus can improve vitamin D status. These benefits may be particularly relevant for individuals with metabolic syndrome or at risk for cardiovascular disease. Effect sizes are generally small to moderate, with some trials reporting LDL-cholesterol reductions of 5–10% within 4–12 weeks of regular consumption.

How it works

Agaricus bisporus exerts its effects through various bioactive compounds. Ergothioneine, glucans, and flavonoids act as antioxidants and modulate immune and inflammatory pathways. These compounds influence lipid metabolism, glucose homeostasis, and immune function. Specifically, they scavenge reactive oxygen species, modulate cytokine production, and may influence cholesterol absorption. Ergothioneine is well-absorbed, while the bioavailability of glucans and flavonoids can vary depending on the preparation and food matrix.

Side effects

Agaricus bisporus is generally recognized as safe for most individuals when consumed as food or in supplement form. Clinical trials have not reported common side effects. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort has been reported in sensitive individuals, but is uncommon. Allergic reactions are possible but rare. No significant drug interactions have been reported in clinical studies. There are no established contraindications, but caution is advised for individuals with mushroom allergies. While considered safe for most adults, there is insufficient data regarding its use in pregnant or lactating women.

Dosage

While the minimum effective dose of Agaricus bisporus is not well established, most studies use 50–100 g of fresh mushroom per day or an equivalent extract. Higher doses have not been shown to be more effective. No adverse effects have been reported at typical dietary intakes, so a maximum safe dose is not established. It can be consumed at any time of day without specific timing requirements. Fresh, cooked, or powdered forms are used, with bioavailability potentially varying. Cooking may enhance the bioavailability of some compounds, and ergothioneine is heat-stable. Vitamin D synthesis is enhanced by UV exposure.

FAQs

How should I include Agaricus bisporus in my diet?

No special preparation is required; Agaricus bisporus can be easily included in your regular diet, either fresh or cooked, as part of meals.

Is Agaricus bisporus safe for everyone?

It is safe for most people, but monitor for rare allergic reactions. Individuals with known mushroom allergies should exercise caution.

When should I take Agaricus bisporus?

There is no specific timing; it can be taken with meals at any time of day as part of a balanced diet.

What benefits can I expect from consuming Agaricus bisporus?

Modest improvements in lipid profiles and glucose metabolism may be observed within weeks of regular consumption, as supported by research.

Is Agaricus bisporus a cure for any disease?

No, it is not a cure-all; benefits are modest and context-dependent, and it should be part of a holistic approach to health.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32653808/ – This scoping review of 15 human trials and 53 biochemical studies found that Agaricus bisporus consumption had favorable effects on lipids, glucose, satiety, and inflammation, with no significant adverse effects reported. The review highlights heterogeneity in study design and outcomes and calls for more long-term data to confirm these findings.
https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/5/1079 – This review assessed multiple human studies and found that Agaricus bisporus improved cardiometabolic markers such as cholesterol and glucose levels. The review notes limitations including a focus on short-term outcomes and a lack of placebo control in some studies, suggesting a need for more rigorous research.
https://research.bond.edu.au/files/36426433/AM_Examining_the_health_effects_and_bioactive_components_in_Agaricus_bisporus.pdf – This document examines the health effects and bioactive components in Agaricus bisporus. It likely provides an overview of the mushroom's nutritional profile and potential health benefits based on available research, though specific findings would need to be extracted from the full text.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/sustainable-food-systems/articles/10.3389/fsufs.2024.1415291/full – This article likely explores the sustainable food systems aspects of Agaricus bisporus, potentially covering its cultivation, environmental impact, and role in food security. The full text would need to be reviewed to extract specific findings related to these topics.
https://efsa.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.2903/j.efsa.2021.6516 – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on vitamin D and found that UV-exposed Agaricus bisporus can improve vitamin D status, although bolus vitamin D3 was more effective than D2 from mushrooms. The review's robust methodology and clear outcomes support its findings, but it primarily addresses vitamin D rather than other bioactive compounds in the mushroom.