Medicinal mushrooms could become a useful addition to the prevention and treatment of type 2 diabetes, according to a review in Frontiers in Nutrition. Authors of the study noted that the fungi contain a complex of biologically active substances, including beta-glucans, polysaccharides, triterpenoids, phenolic compounds, and antioxidants.
Research indicates these compounds can improve tissue sensitivity to insulin and help lower blood sugar levels. They also normalize lipid metabolism, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, and positively affect gut microflora, which plays a major role in metabolism.
Clinical Trial Requirements
Researchers stated that while medicinal mushrooms hold high potential as a functional food, recommending them as a full treatment for diabetes is premature. Larger and higher-quality clinical trials are necessary to confirm their effectiveness and safety.
The findings follow earlier research showing that extracts from king oyster mushrooms reduce inflammation in brain cells.
