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Ergothioneine

Also known as: Ergothioneine, C9H15N3O2S

Overview

Ergothioneine is a naturally occurring antioxidant found in various foods like mushrooms, fermented products, and spirulina. It is being explored for its potential roles in promoting healthy aging and supporting cardiometabolic health. As a dietary supplement, ergothioneine is investigated for its ability to enhance antioxidant defenses and potentially improve exercise performance. Current research suggests promising benefits, but more extensive and rigorous clinical trials are necessary to fully elucidate its effects. Ergothioneine's antioxidant properties are believed to contribute to its potential health benefits. It is available in various supplement forms, including capsules and powders. While dietary sources are common, supplementation aims to provide concentrated doses for targeted health outcomes. Further research is needed to establish optimal dosages and long-term safety.

Benefits

Ergothioneine may improve aerobic exercise performance by increasing time to exhaustion, as suggested by animal studies. However, human trials are needed to confirm these findings. Some research indicates its potential to reduce the severity of viral infections, though this remains largely theoretical and requires clinical validation. Ergothioneine contributes to overall antioxidant defenses, potentially benefiting health by reducing oxidative stress. While benefits are proposed for the general population, athletes might experience enhanced exercise performance. The increase in time to exhaustion during aerobic exercise was significant in animal studies, but more data are needed for other benefits. Supplementation may show benefits within a short period, such as one week for exercise performance, based on animal studies.

How it works

Ergothioneine primarily functions as an antioxidant, helping to mitigate oxidative stress and cellular damage. It interacts with cellular antioxidant systems to protect against oxidative damage. While specific molecular targets are not well-defined, ergothioneine likely interacts with various cellular components involved in oxidative stress management. It is absorbed from dietary sources, but specific bioavailability data from supplements are limited. Its mechanism involves scavenging free radicals and protecting cellular components from oxidative damage, thereby supporting overall cellular health and function.

Side effects

Ergothioneine is generally considered safe based on dietary consumption, but comprehensive safety data from supplement use are limited. Common side effects are not well-documented due to limited human studies. Uncommon and rare side effects are also largely unknown due to the lack of extensive human trials. Potential drug interactions are speculative and require further study. No specific contraindications have been established, but caution is advised in populations with specific health conditions. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before use. Due to limited data, it is essential to monitor for any adverse effects when starting ergothioneine supplementation and to discontinue use if any unexpected symptoms occur.

Dosage

A minimum effective dose for ergothioneine supplements has not been established. Optimal dosage ranges are speculative, as typical dietary intake is variable. The maximum safe dose is not defined. Timing may depend on specific use cases, such as before exercise for performance enhancement. There are no specific form-specific recommendations available. Absorption may vary based on dietary source or supplement form. No required cofactors have been established. Given the lack of established guidelines, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine an appropriate dosage based on individual health status and intended use.

FAQs

How should I use ergothioneine supplements?

Consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation, especially if considering it for specific health benefits. Follow their dosage recommendations and monitor for any adverse effects.

Is ergothioneine supplementation safe?

While generally safe from dietary sources, supplement safety data are limited. Start with a low dose and monitor for any adverse reactions. Consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns.

When should I take ergothioneine?

Timing may depend on the intended benefit, such as before exercise for performance enhancement. Follow the recommendations of your healthcare provider or the supplement label.

What results can I expect from ergothioneine supplementation?

Benefits may vary widely among individuals. Ergothioneine is not a cure-all for health issues; its benefits are speculative and require more research. Manage your expectations accordingly.

Is ergothioneine a cure-all for health issues?

No, ergothioneine is not a cure-all. Its benefits are speculative and require more research. It should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to health and wellness, not as a standalone treatment.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9816654/ – This review article suggests that ergothioneine may play roles in healthy aging and cardiometabolic health. It highlights the need for more rigorous studies to fully understand the potential benefits and mechanisms of action of ergothioneine in these areas.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8483951/ – This review proposes ergothioneine as a potential therapeutic for reducing viral infection severity. However, the authors note that this is a theoretical proposal and lacks direct clinical evidence, emphasizing the need for further investigation.
https://febs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/1873-3468.14268 – This research explores the antioxidant properties of ergothioneine and its potential protective effects against oxidative stress. The study highlights ergothioneine's role in cellular defense mechanisms and its implications for various health conditions related to oxidative damage.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2022.834597/full – This animal study found that ergothioneine supplementation increased time to exhaustion during aerobic exercise in mice. While the results are promising, the authors emphasize that human trials are needed to confirm these findings and to determine the optimal dosage and safety profile for ergothioneine supplementation in humans.
https://www.annualreviews.org/doi/10.1146/annurev-food-060822-122236 – This review provides an overview of ergothioneine, covering its sources, bioavailability, and potential health benefits. It discusses the importance of ergothioneine as a dietary component and its possible roles in preventing chronic diseases, while also pointing out the gaps in current research.