Immune-stimulating mushrooms for autoimmune conditions

[NataliaA]

I came across this info that immune-stimulating mushrooms are not recommended on an ongoing basis for people with autoimmune conditions. Can anyone explain why? And how about for a short period of time?
Thanks. Natalia
 

[KatiW]

Generally you don't want to stimulate the immune system of those suffering from autoimmune conditions because their immune system is already damaging some part of their body, so if you stimulate it more, it may cause more damage/inflammation. From what I understand is that if you use whole mushrooms, not defractionized, then they actually have an immune-modulating effect. I saw a study done at the MD Anderson Cancer center using New Chapter's Lifeshield Immunity (a blend of several medicinal mushrooms), and it down-regulated the immune systems of people with an overactive immune system (those with autoimmune conditions), and up-regulated the immune system of those with suppressed immune systems.

[NataliaA]

Thanks Kathy! Interesting study about the supplemental mushrooms! I recommended the same product from GOL to someone recovering from breast cancer and it seemed very helpful. I'll keep that in mind. My question was about whole mushrooms. Sorry I didn't mention that. Thanks again!