The possibility of mushrooms to prevent dementia

Dementia is deemed as one of the most miserable diseases in the world because of its progressive and irreversible course. As aging of the population grows, prevention of dementia will become more crucial without a doubt.

There are some potential ways to prevent or delay the onset of dementia proposed. Physical and mental activity, refrain from excessive drinking, and continuation of proper diet are expected for prolonging healthy life. However, each method lacks evidence of the effect to maintain cognitive function.

Recently, mushrooms are focused as a beneficial food for human health. Since they do not contain the source of nutrition, they have been considered only as a flavor in the meal. But recent studies suggest mushrooms have rich bioactive compounds which have a role of anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.

Hindustan Times: Make mushrooms a regular on your plate. It helps fight dementia, Alzheimer’s

There are many kinds of wild mushrooms in the world. These components are various with each other. In Japan, shimeji, matsutake, shiitake, hiratake, and enoki mushroom are popular, while brown mushroom is the most frequently used in the UK. Which type of fungus is the most beneficial is unclear. Researchers are eager to explore the compounds of each type of mushroom.

Journal of Medical Food: Edible and Medicinal Mushrooms: Emerging Brain Food for the Mitigation of Neurodegenerative Diseases

I do not think eating mushroom is a final solution for preventing dementia. Nonetheless, it is exciting to know an effect of a component in our daily meal.