In the classification of foods, mushrooms are a unique category. Although we are inclined to think of them as vegetables, mushrooms do not belong to the large plant family, nor to the animal family, nor to the algae family. Mushrooms are a very special kingdom.
For a long time considered as primitive or degenerated plants, it seems that the last scientific data concerning mushrooms make us reconsider our judgment.
They were a very popular food for the ancient Egyptians who believed that eating them would help them live longer. As is often the case, we find that ancient cultures had knowledge that modern medicine is only now discovering.
Among a hundred species of mushrooms studied for their anti-cancer properties, 6 of them have proven to be true champions in this regard.
Still and always the immune system...
These eukaryotic organisms (characterized by the presence of a nucleus and mitochondria in their cells) seem to stimulate our immune system in many ways. It turned out that they contain long-chain polysaccharides, in particular beta-glucan and alpha-glucan, large molecules active in this stimulation. They have had in the dried shiitake for example, of which it would be enough to add one to two servings in our daily diet to obtain a modulation and beneficial effects on the immune system.
Peptides, lectins, laccases, fungal proteins, and other of their compounds have been shown to be effective in stimulating the immune system.
These results, although very promising, were insufficient in the eyes of the scientists, who then really targeted their studies on the real anti-cancer effects of fungi.
The Maitake
This is how Maitake has proven to be useful for some breast cancer patients.
In Japan, an animal study showed remarkable results on sarcoma. It turned out that after receiving shiitake extracts, 6 out of 10 mice showed a complete regression of their tumors. At slightly higher concentrations, this extract allowed the regression of their tumors for all the mice.
In Japanese healthcare, mushrooms are often used as an alternative to conventional medicine for people suffering from cancer. Shiitake and Agaricus subrufescens (also known as Agaricus brasiliensis and blazei) extracts are particularly used in these cases.
There are other interesting findings. Thus, extracts of maitake combined with vitamin C have reduced the growth of bladder cancer cells by 90%. In some cases, this combination even completely destroyed these cells.
More generally, lentinan, an active ingredient in shiitake, has been shown to increase the survival rate of cancer patients.
These promising results will delight gourmets who, while tasting tasty dishes, will strengthen their immune system and will certainly reduce their risk of developing cancer.
Sources for this article:
http://www.cancerresearchuk.org
http://science.naturalnews.com
For more information: http://www.naturalnews.com/045491_mushrooms_cancer_prevention_maitake.html#ixzz347s9h5qZ