The Neuroprotective and Sleep-Enhancing Potential of Ergothioneine

This 16-week randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involved 147 healthy adults aged 55–79 who reported subjective memory complaints. Participants received daily supplementation of ergothioneine (10 mg or 25 mg via ErgoActive®) or placebo. The study found that a 25 mg dose produced a significant early improvement in composite memory at week 4. Reaction time improved over time in both active groups, while certain cognitive functions such as complex attention, cognitive flexibility, and executive functioning showed within-group gains, especially at the higher dose, albeit without significant differences compared to placebo. Notably, the 25 mg ergothioneine group experienced stabilization or enhancement of subjective prospective memory compared to a decline in the placebo group. In addition, this dose improved sleep initiation and yielded subtle hepatoprotective effects (reductions in liver enzymes) particularly in males; telomere length increased in the 10 mg group, especially among females. The supplementation was safe, with no adverse events or elevations in TMAO levels. Overall, the positive outcomes on subjective memory and sleep suggest ergothioneine may hold early preventive potential.

Source: https://www.mdpi.com/1661-3821/5/3/15