EFFECTS OF BUTTON MUSHROOM POWDER ON LIPID PEROXIDATION MARKERS IN AN ANIMAL MODEL

Abstract

Hypercholesterolemia is a major contributor to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk. Lower plasma cholesterol levels are associated with reduced incidence of coronary heart disease. Button mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus) are rich in nutrients, fiber, and phytonutrients, offering therapeutic benefits including antioxidant, immunomodulatory, cardioprotective, and gut health-promoting effects. This study investigated the potential of button mushroom powder in managing dyslipidemia using a rat model. After analyzing its nutritional composition, 30 rats were divided into three groups: control (normal diet), experimental group I (hyperlipidemic rats treated with 200 mg/kg mushroom powder), and experimental group II (treated with 400 mg/kg). Nutritional analysis revealed that button mushrooms are a good source of protein, fiber, minerals (including magnesium, iron, zinc, and potassium), and have low fat content. Both treatment groups showed a significant reduction in plasma lipid levels and an increase in HDL compared to the control group. These findings suggest that button mushroom powder has a beneficial effect in managing hyperlipidemia.