Randomized Clinical Trial for the Evaluation of Immune Modulation by Yogurt Enriched with \u03b2-Glucans from Lingzhi or Reishi Medicinal Mushroom, Ganoderma lucidum (Agaricomycetes), in Children from Medell\u00edn, Colombia

Authors: Sandra L. Duque Henao, Sergio A. Urrego, Andrea M. Cano, & Edwin A. Higuita

Journal: International Journal of Medicinal Mushrooms

Study Design:

• Intervention: Yogurt enriched with \u03b2-glucans from Ganoderma lucidum or placebo yogurt
• Participants: 124 asymptomatic children aged 3 to 5 years old
• Duration: 12 weeks
• Outcome Measures:
  • Circulating CD8+ T lymphocyte and natural killer (NK) cell counts (primary outcomes)
  • Circulating lymphocyte counts (total, CD3+, and CD4+ T cells), serum concentrations of total immunoglobulin A and cytokines, and various hematological parameters (secondary outcomes)

Summary: This study investigated the effects of yogurt enriched with \u03b2-glucans from Ganoderma lucidum on the immune system in children. After 12 weeks, children who consumed the \u03b2-glucan yogurt had a significantly higher number of CD8+ T cells and total lymphocytes (including CD3+ and CD4+ T cells) compared to those who consumed the placebo yogurt. There were no significant differences in NK cell counts or other immune markers. The intervention was safe and well-tolerated, suggesting that \u03b2-glucans from G. lucidum may be a promising way to boost the immune system in children.