Low Plasma Ergothioneine Predicts Cognitive and Functional Decline in an Elderly Cohort Attending Memory Clinics

Researchers measured ergothioneine, a natural substance found in foods such as mushrooms, in the blood of older adults attending memory clinics. They then followed the participants over time and assessed their thinking skills and ability to manage everyday activities. People with lower ergothioneine levels were more likely to experience worsening memory and greater difficulty with daily tasks. This was an observational study, so it cannot show that low ergothioneine caused the decline.

What this means for you: This is not enough evidence to buy ergothioneine supplements or make major diet changes. The finding may help researchers understand risk, but it does not prove that increasing ergothioneine prevents memory loss.