First Controlled Human Trial Linking Maitake Mushroom Consumption to Improved Cognitive Function
MycoStories • • health
Key Points:
- An 18-week randomized, double-blind clinical trial found that daily consumption of maitake mushrooms, specifically the Y10M strain, significantly improved cognitive scores, particularly memory, in healthy older adults aged 60 and above.
- The study suggests maitake mushrooms may help slow progression from normal cognition to mild cognitive impairment, a precursor to dementia, with no adverse effects observed during the trial.
- Increased natural killer (NK) cell activity was observed in the Y10M group and correlated positively with improved cognitive scores, indicating a possible immune-mediated mechanism for the cognitive benefits.
- Differences in cognitive outcomes between the two maitake strains tested (Y10M and C5304) imply that minor constituents or polysaccharide structures may influence efficacy, highlighting the need for further research.
- Authors note limitations including small sample size and call for larger, longer-term studies to confirm findings and clarify mechanisms before dietary recommendations can be updated.