Figure from (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11068609/).
"When will I notice a difference?" This is one of the questions I hear most often. When it comes to blood sugar regulation, the answer may be sooner than you think.
The maitake mushroom (Grifola frondosa), renowned for its substantial size and belonging to the Polyporaceae family, traces its origins to northern Japan (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30403219/). It is a functional mushroom best known for supporting immune function, gut health, and overall wellness. It may also help maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
In one study, maitake extract reduced blood glucose spikes in rats without increasing insulin levels (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17671829/). Remarkably, these effects were observed just 7.5 minutes after a glucose challenge, suggesting maitake may rapidly support healthy glucose metabolism.
In another rat model of diabetes, maitake lowered blood glucose levels while improving insulin sensitivity (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22873755/). The researchers also observed reductions in blood pressure, suggesting maitake may support both metabolic and cardiovascular health.
Unlike several of the studies I've discussed for other mushrooms, these benefits were observed using an extract from the fruiting body of maitake. The fruiting body is the visible part of the mushroom that grows above the ground and releases spores, while the mycelium is the underground network that forms the main body of the fungus. At Brain Wave, we include both the fruiting body and mycelium to provide the broadest spectrum of naturally occurring mushroom compounds.
What About the Long-Term Effects?
While the short-term effects of maitake on blood sugar regulation are exciting, its greatest potential may lie in what happens with consistent use over time.
Carbohydrates and proteins account for approximately 70–80% and 13–21% of maitake's dry weight, respectively, and many of these compounds, particularly its beta-glucans and other polysaccharides, have been linked to a variety of health benefits (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30403219/).
Long-term research suggests maitake may help strengthen immune function by enhancing the activity of macrophages, natural killer cells, and T cells, helping the body respond more effectively to infections as well as cancer. Continued support of healthy glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity may also contribute to better long-term metabolic health and may help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Maitake has also demonstrated cardiovascular benefits in experimental studies, including reductions in LDL ("bad") cholesterol, increases in HDL ("good") cholesterol, and again improvements in blood pressure (https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11068609/). In addition, its polysaccharides act as prebiotic fibers, helping nourish beneficial gut bacteria that support digestion, metabolic health, and satiety, which may aid healthy weight management.
Finally, maitake is rich in polyphenols, flavonoids, and other antioxidant compounds that help neutralize free radicals. By reducing oxidative stress, these compounds may help limit chronic inflammation associated with aging, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.
While more human clinical trials are needed, the available evidence suggests maitake may be a valuable nutritional tool for supporting healthy glucose metabolism, immune function, cardiovascular health, and overall wellness. Some effects may begin within minutes, while others appear to build gradually with consistent use over weeks, months, and perhaps years.
All the best,
Dr. Andy