About Shiitake Mushroom
Shiitake contains lentinan, a beta-glucan polysaccharide with immunomodulatory properties. A 4-week RCT (52 adults, 5–10 g/day dried shiitake) showed improved immune markers including increased sIgA and improved CRP. Lentinan has been studied as adjunctive immunotherapy in oncology settings in Japan. Also a source of eritadenine, which may support healthy cholesterol levels. Generally well tolerated; rare cases of shiitake dermatitis from raw consumption.
What Shiitake Mushroom supports
- Supports immune function via beta-glucan activation
- May support healthy cholesterol levels
- Contains bioactive polysaccharides with antioxidant properties
How much Shiitake Mushroom to take
The RDA prevents deficiency. The effective range is what clinical trials used to actually move the outcome.
Effective
1000–3000
mg
Clinical studies use 1–3 g/day of dried extract. Lentinan (active polysaccharide) is the primary bioactive.
Clinical evidence
Moderate clinical evidence. One 4-week clinical trial (52 adults) showed improved immune markers; mostly preclinical data otherwise
Examine.com