Edible mushrooms could be used as a natural intervention to regulate blood sugar and improve metabolic health, a new study from Semmelweis University suggests. With global rates of type 2 diabetes (T2DM) on the rise, the researchers shed light on how bioactive compounds in medicinal mushrooms, such as polysaccharides and terpenoids, may help prevent or alleviate insulin resistance (IR).

Common mushrooms like white button (Agaricus bisporus), shiitake (Lentinula edodes), and oyster (Pleurotus ostreatus), now widely consumed as part of the Western diet, could serve as preventative or complementary treatments for managing insulin resistance, according to a comprehensive review recently published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences.

IR occurs when the body’s cells fail to respond properly to insulin, causing glucose to build up in the bloodstream. Over time, this can lead to T2DM, a condition that affects an estimated 830 million people worldwide, as data from the World Health Organization shows.

The bioactive components in mushrooms include polysaccharides, terpenoids, phenolic compounds, and bioactive proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals. These compounds interact with key metabolic processes to promote better insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health.

For example, indigestible polysaccharides, a major fibre component of mushrooms, contribute to metabolic balance by feeding beneficial gut bacteria. These bacteria support nutrient absorption, strengthen the intestinal barrier, and lower chronic inflammation - an important factor in insulin resistance. Additionally, polysaccharides reduce sugar and fat absorption, which aids in weight management, crucial for both preventing and managing diabetes.

"Recent research has highlighted the significant impact of gut health on conditions like obesity and type 2 diabetes," explains Dr Zsuzsanna Németh, a biologist at Semmelweis University’s Department of Internal Medicine and Oncology and the study's lead author. "By nurturing gut bacteria through diet, we can improve insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health."

Other ways of how bioactive components in mushrooms could improve IR:

• Modulating glucose absorption: Mushroom compounds regulate intestinal enzymes, slowing the rate at which glucose enters the bloodstream, thereby preventing sharp blood sugar spikes.
• Enhancing glucose uptake: By improving insulin signaling pathways, bioactive components help transport glucose more efficiently into muscle and fat cells.
• Balancing insulin production: Mushrooms can stimulate insulin secretion by pancreatic β-cells and protect them from cell death by increasing the expression of the GLP-1 hormone, helping to maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
• Optimising lipid metabolism: By promoting the use of free fatty acids as an energy source, mushrooms reduce harmful fat accumulation and support healthier muscle function.
• Improving adipose tissue function: Pathologically enlarged fat tissue produces pro-inflammatory substances, contributing to insulin resistance. Medicinal mushrooms may help restore optimal fat storage and release while promoting the production of anti-inflammatory adiponectin, thereby improving metabolic balance.

• “Our study reveals the remarkable potential of natural compounds in mushrooms to address key metabolic pathways," adds Dr Németh. "As interest grows in non-pharmacological approaches to disease prevention, this opens up exciting possibilities for using edible medicinal mushrooms as complementary agents in diabetes management."

However, Dr. Németh advises that in cases of illness, supplemental mushrooms should be consumed as part of a balanced diet and under the guidance of healthcare professionals.

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Welcome, fellow mushroom enthusiasts! Today, we embark on a fascinating journey into the world of the White Cap mushroom (Agaricus bisporus).

Join me as we delve into its distinctive characteristics, natural habitat, nutritional composition, and explore the diverse ways this mushroom can be incorporated into culinary creations. Get ready to uncover the secrets and marvel at the intriguing nature of this remarkable fungus.

1. The White Cap Mushroom:
   A Closer Look: The White Cap mushroom is a member of the Agaricus genus and is known for its classic mushroom appearance. It features a convex cap that gradually flattens as it matures. Initially, the cap showcases a bright white color, lending the mushroom its name. Over time, the gills underneath the cap transition from pink to brown. The mushroom emits a delicate, slightly earthy aroma, adding to its appeal.
2. Natural Habitat and Cultivation:
   White Cap mushrooms are commonly found in grasslands, meadows, and pastures. They have a widespread distribution, particularly in Europe and North America. In the wild, they typically emerge during late summer and early fall. Due to their popularity, White Cap mushrooms are also cultivated commercially worldwide. Controlled growing environments and specialized cultivation techniques ensure consistent quality and availability.
3. Nutritional Composition and Health Benefits:
   When it comes to nutrition, White Cap mushrooms offer a range of benefits. They are low in calories and fat, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet. These mushrooms are also a good source of essential nutrients such as potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber. Additionally, White Cap mushrooms contain antioxidants, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. Including them in your meals can contribute to a wholesome and nutritious lifestyle.
4. Culinary Application and Versatility:
   The White Cap mushroom's mild flavor and firm texture make it a versatile ingredient in the culinary world. Its adaptability allows it to shine in an array of dishes. These mushrooms can be enjoyed raw, providing a delicate crunch and subtle earthy notes to salads. When cooked, they release their flavors and pair well with various recipes. White Cap mushrooms are often sautéed, stir-fried, or used in soups, sauces, and pasta dishes, adding depth and complexity to culinary creations.
5. Recipe Inspiration: Creamy Garlic White Cap Mushroom Pasta.
   To inspire your culinary endeavors, here's a delightful recipe featuring White Cap mushrooms;

Ingredients:

• 8 ounces White Cap mushrooms, sliced
• 8 ounces linguine or your preferred pasta
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced White Cap mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they become tender and develop a golden hue.
4. Pour in the heavy cream, and let the mixture simmer gently for a few minutes to thicken slightly.
5. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines with the creamy mushroom sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss well to coat the noodles with the creamy mushroom sauce.
7. Serve the pasta in individual plates, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and visual appeal.

Fred Musc

The EuroMycel mycelium laboratory is a subsidiary and privileged commercial partner of the International BONDUELLE Group.

Since 1960, EuroMycel has successively been the historical spawn maker subsidiary of the Guilbaud Group, then of France Champignon, and today of the Bonduelle Group.

During all these years, EuroMycel has developed impressive expertise and a "certain know-how" associated with a collection of unique strains. Its international adventure began in 2000 while remaining a supplier to its parent company.

EuroMycel bases its development on its own approach, namely that the genetics of Agaricus bisporus is certainly not the limiting factor of biotransformation.

The highly specialized EuroMycel mushroom spawn fulfills the expectations of fresh and mechanical harvest growers. Our selection process is unique because the master cultures are sorted according to their specific interaction with compost.

We supply millions of liters of spawn to the Polish, French, North European, Chinese, Hungarian, Israeli, and Indian markets, with strains grown on the best possible medium for the genetic expression of our strains: rye.

Our flagship varieties are the E58 Premium (E58 P) and the E21. The variety E58 P is one of the most popular white bud mushroom strains worldwide and the E21 is a highly productive, smooth, white, hybrid strain, ideal for the canning industry.

Mushroom days: We like to welcome you to our booth N° 36

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Tel: +31 (0)6 82183632

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