Ergothioneine
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Ergothioneine. Unique antioxidant from mushrooms with its own transporter — accumulates in oxidative-stress tissues.
How it works. Specific transporter (OCTN1) concentrates it in liver, kidney, RBCs, brain; potent ROS scavenger.
What the research supports. 1 graded claims. Strongest: Lower blood levels associate with cognitive decline (limited).
How much to take. Typical dose: 5–10 mg/d (or mushrooms daily).
Side effects and interactions. 1 medication interaction listed. Serious: Discontinue and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or include difficulty breathing.
Stacking. Pairs well with A high-quality multivitamin, Omega-3 (EPA/DHA).
Forms. 1 forms. Pick one to open its profile.
Key studies. 8 studies cited. The strongest are listed with links to PubMed.
Community. Experiences from people who have tried Ergothioneine. Anecdotes are not medical advice.
Ergothioneine. Unique antioxidant from mushrooms with its own transporter — accumulates in oxidative-stress tissues.
What it is
Unique antioxidant from mushrooms with its own transporter — accumulates in oxidative-stress tissues.
Food sources
Goals
How it works
Specific transporter (OCTN1) concentrates it in liver, kidney, RBCs, brain; potent ROS scavenger.
Pathways
- Specific transporter (OCTN1) concentrates it in liver, kidney, RBCs, brain
- potent ROS scavenger
Effects
- ↓blood levels associate with cognitive decline decreases
What the research supports
Strong: consistent results across large trials or meta-analyses. Moderate: several trials, mostly positive. Limited: small or mixed studies. Preclinical: animal or cell research only.
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Side effects & interactions
Common side effects
- Ergothioneine is generally well-tolerated at evidence-based doses
- Mild GI discomfort (nausea, loose stools, or bloating) possible at higher intakes
- Headache or transient fatigue reported by a small fraction of users
Serious
- Discontinue and seek medical advice if symptoms are severe, persistent, or include difficulty breathing
Medication interactions
Always disclose Ergothioneine use to your prescriber — additive, antagonistic, or pharmacokinetic interactions are possible.
Check any supplement–medication combination with your pharmacist before starting.
Combines with
Pairs well
- A high-quality multivitaminCovers micronutrient cofactors that support most supplement pathways.
- Omega-3 (EPA/DHA)Foundational anti-inflammatory support that complements most regimens.
Forms
Key studies
8 studies cited in total.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Ergothioneine and "Lower blood levels associate with cognitive decline". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Ergothioneine and "randomized controlled trial". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Opens current human and preclinical literature matching Ergothioneine and "meta-analysis". Filter by RCT, meta-analysis, or year on the results page.
Discussion
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