Longevity
Ergothioneine — timing, dose & interactions
Sulfur-containing antioxidant made by fungi and some bacteria — mushrooms are the richest food source. Higher blood levels were linked to lower cardiovascular and overall mortality in a Swedish cohort (observational). A small one-year pilot trial in mild cognitive impairment found it safe, with better scores on a learning test.
Also known as: L-ergothioneine, EGT
Timing
When to take it
Any time of day, with or without food. The body absorbs it avidly and holds on to it, so levels build up over weeks.
Interactions
Ergothioneine with other supplements
No documented supplement interactions in our dataset.
Safety
Medications & health conditions
Antioxidants may interfere with cancer treatment. Some chemotherapy and radiation work partly through oxidative damage; high-dose antioxidants could reduce their effect. Discuss every supplement with your oncology team.
Ergothioneine supplements: no safety data in pregnancy. Ergothioneine supplements has not been studied for safety in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Avoid unless your clinician recommends it.
Buying guide
What to look for on the label
Ergothioneine
- Pure L-ergothioneine
- Mushrooms such as oyster, king oyster and shiitake are rich food sources
FAQ
Common questions
When is the best time to take Ergothioneine?
Breakfast. Any time of day, with or without food. The body absorbs it avidly and holds on to it, so levels build up over weeks.
Should Ergothioneine be taken with food?
It can be taken with or without food. Any time of day, with or without food. The body absorbs it avidly and holds on to it, so levels build up over weeks.
Sources
References
- 01Cheah IK et al. Administration of pure ergothioneine to healthy human subjects: uptake, metabolism, and effects on biomarkers of oxidative damage and inflammation. Antioxid Redox Signal 2017.
- 02Smith E et al. Ergothioneine is associated with reduced mortality and decreased risk of cardiovascular disease. Heart 2020.
- 03Yau YF et al. Investigating the efficacy of ergothioneine to delay cognitive decline in mild cognitively impaired subjects: a pilot study. J Alzheimers Dis 2024.