Ever heard of ergothioneine? It’s an antioxidant amino acid that collects in our cells and seems to protect them from stress. You get most of it from foods, especially mushrooms, and more people are now taking L-ergothioneine as a supplement. This page explains what it does, where it’s found, simple safety tips, and how to choose a product if you want one.
Ergothioneine is made by certain fungi and bacteria, then ends up in the foods we eat. Mushrooms are the richest source — think shiitake, oyster, porcini, and button mushrooms. Smaller amounts show up in black and red beans, oat bran, and some organ meats. Cooking doesn’t destroy it easily, so eating cooked or dried mushrooms still gives you a meaningful amount. If you don’t like mushrooms, supplements can provide a reliable dose.
Blood levels of ergothioneine vary a lot between people, which suggests diet matters. Observational studies have linked higher blood levels with lower markers of inflammation and with better markers of heart and brain health, but these are associations, not proof that ergothioneine fixes those problems.
Why do people take it? Lab and animal studies show ergothioneine protects mitochondria, reduces oxidative damage, and may calm inflammation. Human research is still early, but the results look promising for supporting general cell health and possibly helping age-related conditions.
There’s no official daily requirement yet. Supplement makers usually sell doses from about 5 mg up to 30 mg per day. A common approach is to start low, around 5–10 mg daily, and see how you feel. If you’re taking other supplements or medications, ask your clinician before starting. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should also check with a health professional.
Safety so far looks good in short-term studies and traditional diets, with no widespread reports of harm. Long-term human trials are limited, so be cautious. Watch for products labeled L-ergothioneine, which is the active form used in most studies.
When buying supplements, choose brands with third-party testing and clear ingredient lists. If you prefer food first, add mushrooms to soups, stir-fries, and salads or use dried porcini in sauces for a concentrated boost. Small, practical changes to meals will raise your intake without needing supplements.
If you want help picking a product or figuring out a dose that fits your health plan, talk to a pharmacist or doctor. Ergothioneine looks useful, but it’s still a newcomer in the supplement world — smart choices and a bit of patience pay off.
In my recent blog post, I discussed the importance of Ergothioneine, a dietary supplement that has immense benefits for our immunity and energy levels. This naturally occurring amino acid, found in certain foods and available as a supplement, helps to combat oxidative stress in our bodies. Not only does it aid in boosting our immune response, but it also enhances our energy by positively impacting mitochondrial function. I've found that incorporating Ergothioneine into my daily routine has helped me feel more energetic and resilient. It's an absolute must-have for anyone looking to lead a healthier lifestyle.
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