Researchers discovered that a type of fiber from Ganoderma lucidum mushrooms (also called reishi) may help treat fatty liver disease in mice. The study found that this fiber reduced fat buildup in the liver, lowered harmful cholesterol and triglycerides, and improved the gut’s protective barrier. The mushroom fiber also changed the balance of bacteria in the digestive system, promoting beneficial types like Lactobacillus. These findings suggest the mushroom fiber works by improving communication between the gut and liver, offering a potential natural supplement for people with fatty liver disease.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether a special fiber from reishi mushrooms could reduce fatty liver disease in mice and how it works in the body
  • Who participated: Laboratory mice that were fed a high-fat diet for 12 weeks to develop fatty liver disease, then treated with mushroom fiber
  • Key finding: Mice receiving the mushroom fiber showed significant improvements in liver health, including lower fat deposits, reduced inflammation markers, and better gut bacteria balance compared to untreated mice
  • What it means for you: This research suggests mushroom fiber supplements might help people with fatty liver disease, but human studies are needed before we can be confident about using it as a treatment. Talk to your doctor before trying new supplements.

The Research Details

Scientists created fatty liver disease in mice by feeding them a high-fat diet for 12 weeks. Then they gave some mice a supplement containing insoluble fiber from Ganoderma lucidum mushrooms while others received no treatment. The researchers used three advanced laboratory techniques to understand what was happening: they examined which genes were turned on or off in the liver, analyzed the types of bacteria living in the gut, and measured hundreds of different chemicals in the body. By comparing treated and untreated mice, they could see exactly how the mushroom fiber was helping.

This approach is like being a detective—the researchers looked at multiple clues (genes, bacteria, and chemicals) to understand the complete story of how the mushroom fiber works. They focused on something called the ‘gut-liver axis,’ which is the connection between digestive health and liver health.

Using multiple measurement techniques (genes, bacteria, and chemicals) gives a much more complete picture than looking at just one thing. This helps scientists understand not just that something works, but exactly how it works. This detailed understanding is important for developing better treatments and knowing whether results in mice might apply to humans.

This study was conducted in a controlled laboratory setting with mice, which allows researchers to carefully control all variables. However, mouse studies don’t always translate directly to humans. The research was published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, meaning other experts reviewed it before publication. The study used sophisticated modern techniques to measure changes at the molecular level, which is a strength. The main limitation is that this is animal research, so human clinical trials would be needed to confirm these findings work in people.

What the Results Show

The mushroom fiber significantly reduced signs of fatty liver disease in mice. Specifically, it lowered serum cholesterol and triglycerides (the fats in the blood), reduced markers of liver damage, and decreased inflammation throughout the body. The fiber also improved the liver’s ability to handle oxidative stress, which is like cellular damage from unstable molecules.

The research showed that the mushroom fiber works through several pathways in the liver that control how the body processes and stores fat. These pathways have names like Cytochrome P450 and PPAR signaling—essentially, they’re the body’s ‘instruction manuals’ for managing fat. The fiber appeared to activate these pathways in healthier ways.

One of the most interesting findings was that the mushroom fiber strengthened the intestinal barrier—the protective lining of the gut. It did this by increasing proteins called ZO-1 and Occludin, which are like the ‘glue’ holding intestinal cells together. A stronger gut barrier is important because it prevents harmful substances from leaking into the bloodstream.

The mushroom fiber changed the composition of gut bacteria in beneficial ways. It increased populations of Lactobacillus and Akkermansia, which are considered ‘good’ bacteria that support digestive and immune health. The fiber also altered levels of various metabolites (chemical byproducts) in the body. It increased protective compounds like L-cysteine, SAMe, and MTA while decreasing a harmful compound called 13(S)-HODE. These chemical changes suggest the mushroom fiber is helping the body’s natural detoxification and protection systems work better.

This research builds on existing knowledge that dietary fiber and certain mushrooms have health benefits. Previous studies have shown that gut bacteria composition affects liver health, and that strengthening the intestinal barrier can reduce inflammation. This study is notable because it specifically identifies how one type of mushroom fiber works through multiple mechanisms simultaneously—affecting genes, bacteria, and protective chemicals all at once. This comprehensive approach provides more detailed understanding than many previous studies.

This study was conducted only in mice, not humans. While mice are useful for understanding how things work biologically, their bodies don’t always respond the same way human bodies do. The study doesn’t specify the exact number of mice used or provide details about how they were selected. We don’t know if the results would be the same in people with different genetics, diets, or health conditions. Additionally, this was a short-term study (12 weeks), so we don’t know about long-term effects. Finally, the study doesn’t compare the mushroom fiber to other existing treatments for fatty liver disease, so we can’t say whether it’s better or worse than current options.

The Bottom Line

Based on this research, mushroom fiber supplements show promise as a potential treatment for fatty liver disease, but the evidence is currently limited to animal studies. Confidence level: LOW for human use. Before considering this supplement, people with fatty liver disease should consult their doctor. This research suggests it’s worth investigating further in human trials, but it’s not yet proven safe or effective in people. Current standard treatments recommended by doctors should remain the first choice until human studies confirm these findings.

This research is most relevant to people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and researchers studying liver health. It may also interest people looking for natural approaches to liver health. However, people should NOT self-treat with mushroom supplements based on this study alone. People with existing liver disease, those taking medications, or pregnant/nursing women should definitely consult a doctor before trying new supplements. This research is preliminary and shouldn’t replace medical advice.

In the mouse study, changes were observed after 12 weeks of treatment. If similar results occur in humans, people might expect to see improvements in blood tests (cholesterol, triglycerides) within 8-12 weeks, though this is speculative. Improvements in liver function might take longer. It’s important to note that any human treatment would need to be monitored by a doctor with regular blood tests.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • If a user is interested in this research and working with their doctor on liver health, they could track: weekly liver health markers (if doing blood work), daily fiber intake from all sources, and monthly weight changes. They could also log any supplements taken and note energy levels or digestive changes.
  • Users could increase overall dietary fiber intake from various sources (vegetables, whole grains, legumes) while discussing mushroom supplements with their doctor. They could set a goal to add one high-fiber food daily and track it in the app, creating a foundation for liver health improvement regardless of whether they use mushroom supplements.
  • For long-term tracking, users should work with their healthcare provider to monitor liver function through blood tests (checking cholesterol, triglycerides, and liver enzymes) every 3-6 months. They could use the app to log test results, track dietary changes, and note any symptoms. This creates a comprehensive picture of whether interventions are working.

This research was conducted in mice and has not been tested in humans. The findings are preliminary and should not be used to self-diagnose or self-treat fatty liver disease. Fatty liver disease is a serious medical condition that requires professional medical evaluation and treatment. Anyone with liver disease, elevated liver enzymes, or concerns about liver health should consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new supplements or making dietary changes. This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always discuss new supplements with your doctor, especially if you take medications or have existing health conditions.