Why is ergothioneine good for the brain?
Ergothioneine is thought to support brain health due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, metal-chelating, neuroprotective, and glutathione-supporting properties.
Chelates metals: Ergothioneine has been shown to bind metals such as copper and zinc, which can have toxic effects on the brain when present in excess. Through chelation, ergothioneine may help prevent metal-induced neurotoxicity.
Glutathione Support:
Ergothioneine may indirectly support brain health by retaining and regenerating glutathione. Glutathione plays a vital role in detoxifying and protecting neurons from oxidative damage.
When to take ergothioneine?
Ergothioneine can be taken with other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, to enhance antioxidant protection.
Ergothioneine dietary supplements that have been launched in the international market are mainly capsules, usually with a content of 5mg/capsule, and 1-2 capsules are taken daily.
Ergothioneine can be formulated with vitamin C, plant extracts and other ingredients.
How much ergothioneine per day?
According to published literature, based on the analysis of ergothioneine sources and intake content, the total intake of ergothioneine is 1.7 mg/kg body weight per day for adults and 3.7 mg/kg body weight per day for children.
In 2017, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) conducted a safety assessment of ergothioneine from chemically synthesized sources. The report states that when used as a dietary supplement, the recommended maximum daily intake for safe use is 2.82 mg/kg body weight for infants, 3.39 mg/kg body weight for children, and 1.31 mg/kg body weight for adults.
Ergothioneine and glutathione
● Ergothioneine:
Ergothioneine is a naturally occurring amino acid that is also produced by certain bacteria and fungi.
Ergothioneine has been studied for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective properties, and some studies have found that this substance helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress. It is effective in scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and preventing DNA damage.
Ergothioneine may help prevent age-related diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative diseases.
● Glutathione:
Glutathione is a tripeptide composed of three amino acids: glutamine, cysteine and glycine.
Glutathione is known for its antioxidant capabilities, it is found in high concentrations in the liver and plays a key role in detoxification.
Glutathione helps recycle other antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, and is involved in the regulation of cellular processes. It is also involved in a variety of other physiological processes and plays an important role in protecting cells from oxidative damage.
Glutathione supports immune system health, DNA synthesis and repair. Low glutathione levels have been linked to liver disease and neurodegenerative diseases.
Ergothioneine vs astaxanthin
Ergothioneine is an amino acid with a thiol group. Astaxanthin is a carotenoid pigment with a unique molecular structure. It is found in algae, fish, shrimp and other seafood.
Astaxanthin is known for its anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and skin protective properties.
It may also help improve cardiovascular health and support eye health. Crosses the blood-brain barrier and blood-retinal barrier to provide antioxidant protection to the brain and eyes.
Astaxanthin is particularly effective at neutralizing singlet oxygen, a highly reactive form of oxygen that can damage cells.
Reference
[1].Cheah IK, Feng L, Tang RMY, Lim KHC, Halliwell B. Ergothioneine levels in an elderly population decrease with age and incidence of cognitive decline; a risk factor for neurodegeneration? Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2016;478:162–167.
[2].Safety of synthetic l‐ergothioneine Ergoneine as a novel food pursuant to Regulation EC No 258-97.
