Shiitake mushrooms, known scientifically as Lentinula edodes, are an edible mushroom native to East Asia. This nutritious mushroom has been a staple in the diet for hundreds of years, not only as a source of food, but also for its medicinal properties. In traditional herbal medicine, shiitake mushrooms play an important role thanks to their antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties.
10 reasons why you should give Shiitake to your dog.
Let's explore the diverse health benefits shiitake mushrooms offer our dogs, from immune support to weight control and more.
If you would like to purchase Hokuō™ Organic Shiitake powder 50g, you can do so by clicking here.
1. Support for immune function
Shiitake mushrooms are packed with nutrients that support the immune system, including:
- vitamin D
- zinc
- selenium
- iron
- proteins, including the amino acid glutamine
- copper
Shiitake also contains lentinan, a unique beta-glucan that stimulates the immune system by increasing the production of killer T cells and NK cells. Research shows that consuming two dried shiitake mushrooms daily for a month improves immune response and reduces inflammation.
2. Cancer-fighting properties
Lentinan in shiitake mushrooms also has the ability to fight cancer by promoting the production of cancer-fighting alpha interferon. Studies have shown that lentinan can inhibit the growth of leukemia cells and that mycochemicals from shiitake can induce cancer cell death. Shiitake has also been shown to suppress and treat stomach cancer cells in humans, and may enhance the effects of traditional chemotherapy.
3. Weight control
Shiitake mushrooms may help with weight loss by increasing satiety. This is due to their content of soluble dietary fiber, such as beta-glucan, which increases satiety, reduces food intake, and prolongs nutrient absorption. Research in rats shows that a diet rich in shiitake mushrooms leads to significantly less weight gain compared to diets with lower mushroom intake.
4. Antioxidant properties
Shiitake contains significant amounts of mycochemicals, including powerful antioxidants like ergothioneine and selenium, which protect against chronic diseases by neutralizing harmful free radicals.
5. Support for the cardiovascular system
Shiitake mushrooms are heart-healthy, low in sodium and saturated fat. They also contain linoleic acid and lentinan, which support heart health, and have several components that fight high cholesterol.
6. Antimicrobial properties
Shiitake mushrooms show promising results in the fight against bacterial infections, yeasts, and molds, including effectiveness against pathogens that can cause gum disease, without harming essential microorganisms.
7. B vitamins for energy and brain function
Shiitake mushrooms are rich in B vitamins, which are important for energy production and cognitive function, and may be particularly helpful for older dogs with cognitive impairments.
8. High in vitamin D
When shiitake mushrooms are exposed to sunlight, they produce large amounts of vitamin D2, essential for calcium and phosphorus absorption, bone health, and immune system support.
9. Selenium for skin and fur care
Shiitake contains selenium, a trace element that promotes skin and coat health, improves skin healing, and supports hormonal balance and immune function.
10. Digestion and intestinal health
Shiitake contributes to digestion and intestinal health through its fiber content, which inhibits inflammation in the intestine, and contains enzymes that help with the breakdown of starch, useful for dogs on a starchy diet.
By including shiitake mushrooms in your dog's diet, you can enjoy a variety of health benefits, from improved immune response and assistance with weight management to support for the cardiovascular system and digestive health.
The nutritional value of shiitake mushrooms
Shiitake mushrooms are an excellent source of zinc, an essential mineral that is important for your dog's skin and digestive system.
Availability and preparation
Shiitake mushrooms can be found in fresh, dried or powdered form. The powdered form, which is more concentrated, offers a higher nutritional value and is an easier way to include shiitake mushrooms in your dog’s diet. However, it is important to ensure that the powder is double extracted to ensure that your dog receives the medicinal benefits safely. Hokuō’s Shiitake powder is naturally double extracted, and is, to our knowledge, the only Shiitake powder for dogs and cats that is double extracted.
Shiitake is an incredibly good addition to your dog's diet, and is something we at Pawesomeday love to give to our dogs 🍄
If you would like to purchase Hokuō™ organic Shiitake powder 50g, you can do so by clicking here .
References:
Beelman, Robert, et al. Is ergothioneine a 'longevity vitamin' limited in the American diet? J Nutr Sci. 2020 Nov 11;9:e52.
Dai, Xiashuang., et al. Consuming lentinula edodes (shiitake) mushrooms daily improves human immunity: A randomized dietary intervention in healthy young adults . J AM Coll Nutr. 2015;34(6):478-87.
Islam, Tahidul, et al. New insight into mycochemical profiles and antioxidant potential of edible and medicinal mushrooms: A review. Int J Med Mushrooms. 2019;21(3):237-251.
Fang, N., et al. Inhibition of growth and induction of apoptosis in human cancer cell lines by an ethyl acetate fraction from shiitake mushrooms. J Altern Complement Med. 2006 Mar;12(2):125-32.
Ciric, L. et al. In vitro assessment of shiitake mushroom (lentinula edodes) extract for its antigingivitis activity. J Biomed Biotechnol. 2011;2011:507908.
Hearst, R., et al. An examination of antibacterial and antifungal properties of constituents of shiitake (lentinula edodes) and oyster (pleurotus ostreatus) mushrooms. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice. 2009;15:5–7.
Sharadamma, K.D., et al. Role of selenium in pets' health and nutrition: A review. Asian Journal of Animal Sciences. 2012 Apr 22;5:64-70.
Ina, Kenji., et al. The use of lentinan for treating gastric cancer. Anticancer Agents With Chem. 2013 Jun;13(5):681–688.
