MUSHROOM

Brazilian Mushroom -- the King of Mushrooms

Brazilian mushrooms, also known as Agaricus blazei Murill or Himematsutake, have emerged as the latest favorite in health and wellness circles around the world. For several years, they have topped Japan's health food ingredient rankings and, in 2000, they were recognized by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration as a nutritional supplement.

Brazilian mushrooms are a prized edible fungi variety that has gained immense popularity globally. In Japan, it's known as "Himematsutake" among other names like Brazilian white mushroom, Brazilian mushroom, Larch mushroom, Sun mushroom, Divine mushroom, and Fantasy mushroom. Native to the Piedade region near São Paulo, Brazil, this mushroom has been consumed by local inhabitants for centuries, who have remarkably low rates of cancer and modern diseases. Noticing its potential, Mr. Takatoshi Furumoto introduced it to Japan in 1965 for research at the Wada Mushroom Institute, and in 1967 it was classified by Dr. Heinemann of Belgium as belonging to the genus Agaricus.

In 1980, a pivotal research study by the University of Tokyo and the National Cancer Center highlighted its unique dietary effects, attracting significant scientific attention. The mushroom became popular in the United States as well, with former President Ronald Reagan reportedly using it for its remarkable health benefits. Today, it is also a staple in the diet of the Thai royal family.

Scientists have identified extremely high molecular weight polysaccharides in Brazilian mushrooms, including β-glucans, β-D-glucans, β-galactoglucans, nucleic acids, protein-polysaccharides, and xyloglucans, making it the richest source among fungi. In particular, it contains high levels of β-D-glucan, earning it the title "King of Mushrooms" for its unique effectiveness. Additionally, Brazilian mushrooms are rich in various vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and enzymes, which help regulate physiological functions, making it an exceptionally effective nutritional supplement.

The mushroom has gained global popularity, leading the health food sales in Japan since 1997 and consistently ranking first in raw material sales from the second half of 1998. By 2000, its market sales reached 30 billion Japanese Yen, positioning it as one of the most promising health foods of the 21st century.

Key Nutritional Components of Brazilian Mushrooms:

Polysaccharides: Once seen primarily as an energy source, polysaccharides are now recognized for playing a crucial role in physiological functions, acting as mediators for cell recognition and communication.
- Polysaccharide-Protein Complex: Unique to Brazilian mushrooms, this complex can lose its physiological activity if not properly processed under controlled temperatures, leading to a loss of its unique properties.
- Proteins and Amino Acids: Proteins form the structure of various organs and tissues, are major components of hormones, and regulate numerous physiological functions. Every part of the body requires proteins.
- Superoxide Dismutase (SOD): This enzyme is essential for maintaining normal bodily functions, digesting food, and repairing tissues. Bodies can produce their enzymes and also obtain them from food.
- Dietary Fiber: Helps promote bowel movements, increases the feeling of fullness, and softens stool for easier excretion.
- Ergosterol: A natural sterol that can be converted into vitamin D3 through heating or photosynthesis.
- Niacin: Plays a part in energy metabolism and maintains the health of the skin, nervous system, and digestive system.

Vitamins:
  - Vitamin B1, B2, B6: Involved in energy metabolism and play roles in maintaining the health of the heart, nervous system, and skin.
  - Vitamin E: Reduces the oxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acids on cell membranes and maintains the health of skin and blood cells.

Trace Elements:
  - Iron: An essential component of hemoglobin and myoglobin, involved in red blood cell formation.
  - Zinc: Part of insulin and many enzymes, involved in nucleic acid and protein synthesis.
  - Phosphorus: Makes up about 1% of body weight, with 85% in bones and teeth, playing a crucial role in metabolism and maintaining acid-base balance.
  - Magnesium, Potassium, Sodium: Maintain water balance and stability of blood and body fluids.
  - Calcium: Essential for the formation and maintenance of bones and teeth, aids in blood clotting, and regulates cellular permeability.