Mushrooms found to contain high amounts of 2 important compounds

In a new study published in Food Chemistry, researchers discovered high amounts of ergothioneine (ergothioneine has been used in the treatment of red blood cell disorders and chronic inflammatory diseases) and glutathione (scientists believe glutathione is capable of preventing damage to cellular components caused by free radicals, heavy metals and peroxides ).  The researchers  believe both ergothioneine and glutathione may be important in the prevention of dementia.

The study found that mushrooms are the highest dietary source of these two compounds occurring together.  Porcini mushrooms of the 13 species tested were found to have the highest amounts of both antioxidants.  Importantly cooking the mushrooms did not significantly affect the compounds as both were found to be heat stable.

NOTE:  Food Chemistry publishes original research papers dealing with the advancement of the chemistry and biochemistry of food.