Did you know that ordinary mushrooms may hold enormous potential in the fight against diabetes? According to a research review published in Molecules (2023), edible and medicinal mushrooms can help regulate blood glucose levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and support pancreatic cell regeneration. Discover the scientific basis showing that mushrooms are not just culinary additions—but a promising future of functional therapy for type 2 diabetes.
What is diabetes and why do we need alternatives?
Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder in which the body loses its ability to use insulin effectively — a hormone that regulates blood sugar levels.
While conventional antidiabetic drugs can be effective, they often cause side effects such as gastrointestinal issues, liver damage, or the risk of hypoglycemia. As a result, increasing attention is being paid to alternative therapies, including medicinal mushrooms.
Why functional mushrooms?
Mushrooms such as Reishi, Shiitake, Maitake, and Oyster mushrooms are not only rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals but are also a source of polysaccharides, terpenoids, alkaloids, and other bioactive compounds with potential antidiabetic effects.
Research has shown that they can:
- lower blood sugar levels,
- boost insulin secretion,
- protect pancreatic beta cells,
- inhibit enzymes responsible for glucose absorption,
- reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
Read also: Flatulence problems. Adaptogens to support intestinal function
Functional mushrooms and their antidiabetic actions
1. Ganoderma lucidum (Reishi)
Shiitake riches in polysaccharides, β-glucans, and triterpenoids. In vivo studies show it lowers blood glucose and improves liver function. Results included reduced HbA1c levels and enhanced insulin sensitivity.
2. Lentinula edodes (Shiitake)
Contains lentinan, β-glucans, and ergosterol. In animal studies using streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats, researchers observed decreased glucose levels and increased insulin production.
3. Pleurotus ostreatus (Oyster mushroom)
Lowers blood sugar by inhibiting digestive enzymes and stimulating insulin release. Clinical studies demonstrated improved lipid profiles and glycemia in diabetic patients.
4. Agaricus blazei (Almond mushroom)
Its polysaccharides and β-glucans increase insulin and reduce glucagon levels. Studies have shown improvements in blood sugar levels and insulin resistance.
5. Hericium erinaceus (Lion’s Mane)
Known for its neuroprotective properties, it also helps balance blood sugar and has anti-inflammatory effects.
How do mushrooms influence glucose metabolism?
Edible and medicinal mushrooms regulate blood glucose on multiple levels. Their bioactive compounds—especially polysaccharides and triterpenes—can inhibit digestive enzymes like α-glucosidase and α-amylase, slowing down carbohydrate absorption and preventing post-meal glucose spikes.
They also activate the PI3K/Akt pathway, improving insulin sensitivity, and upregulate the GLUT4 transporter, which facilitates glucose uptake by cells. Furthermore, they suppress inflammation by inhibiting NF-κB activity and enhance the body’s antioxidant defense, protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Thanks to these mechanisms, functional mushrooms can support glucose metabolism naturally and holistically, making them a promising complement to conventional diabetes therapy.
Clinical evidence – what do studies show?
While many studies on functional mushrooms have been conducted on animals, the number of human clinical trials is growing, confirming their therapeutic potential for type 2 diabetes.
One of the most notable studies investigated the effects of Ganoderma lucidum extract (also known as Ganopoly). In patients with type 2 diabetes taking 1800 mg daily for 12 weeks, researchers observed significant reductions in blood glucose and HbA1c levels—a key marker of long-term blood sugar control.
Similar results were found in a study using Agaricus blazei. Participants who took 500 mg of the mushroom three times daily for 12 weeks experienced improved insulin sensitivity and reduced insulin resistance—critical for managing type 2 diabetes.
Long-term studies with Pleurotus ostreatus (Oyster mushroom) also yielded promising results. People who consumed 200 grams of the mushroom daily for a year saw lowered blood glucose levels, improved lipid profiles (including reduced cholesterol), and decreased blood pressure—highlighting its broad impact on metabolic health.
These findings suggest that medicinal mushrooms may be a valuable addition to standard diabetes treatments, with growing scientific support in functional medicine.
Mushrooms as functional food
They are an excellent source of B vitamins, vitamin D, fiber, and minerals. Mushrooms have a low glycemic index and promote gut microbiota health. Controlled extraction processes allow for the concentration of therapeutic compounds—particularly polysaccharides and triterpenes—with significant clinical potential.
Challenges and future directions
Despite promising results, more clinical studies in humans are necessary. Current data suggests that mushrooms can be a valuable addition to diabetes management, but their use requires standardization and scientific validation of safety and efficacy.
Why trust functional mushrooms from Ollywell?
Ollywell is a brand committed to delivering the highest quality and safety in its products.
All adaptogens:
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Come from local farms – minimizing carbon footprint and supporting local producers.
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Are standardized – meaning each dose contains a precise amount of active ingredients with scientifically proven effectiveness.
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Are made using advanced extraction technology – Ollywell extracts are produced using ultrasonic extraction, preserving the full spectrum of bioactive compounds.
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Are thoroughly tested – every batch undergoes rigorous quality testing.
By choosing adaptogens from Ollywell, you invest in natural support for your health. Take care of yourself holistically and let nature support you every day.
Read more: Ollywell – quality you can trust
Source: Shamim M.Z. et al. Exploring Edible Mushrooms for Diabetes: Unveiling Their Role in Prevention and Treatment. Molecules 2023, 28, 2837. DOI: 10.3390/molecules28062837