Ergothioneine (EGT) is a naturally occurring amino acid with potent antioxidant properties. Found in mushrooms and other fungi, EGT plays an essential role in protecting cells from oxidative damage. Recently, this unique compound has gained attention for its potential benefits in muscle health and recovery.
EGT is a unique antioxidant that offers prolonged cellular protection.
What Makes EGT Unique?
One of EGT's most beneficial qualities is its exceptional stability within the body. Unlike many other antioxidants, EGT resists breakdown and remains active for prolonged periods of time, which helps ensure sustained support [1]. This enduring stability enhances its effectiveness, allowing EGT to deliver long-lasting benefits and making it a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle.
EGT and Muscle Protein Synthesis
Beyond its antioxidant properties, EGT has been shown to promote muscle protein synthesis—a vital process for muscle growth and repair. A preclinical study on rodents, published in Frontiers in Physiology, found that daily EGT supplementation for seven days increased markers of global protein synthesis in the gastrocnemius and soleus muscles by 12% and 17.8%, respectively [2]. By supporting this essential process, EGT has the potential to enhance muscle health and accelerate recovery after physical activity. While these findings are based on preclinical research, future human studies are anticipated to confirm and expand upon these promising results.
EGT and Muscle Performance
Intense workouts often lead to inflammation and oxidative damage. While many antioxidants have been studied to mitigate these effects, they frequently fall short. For instance, a double-blind clinical trial involving 38 healthy men, published in the European Journal of Applied Physiology, found that combined vitamin C and E supplementation neither reduced markers of oxidative stress nor improved recovery of muscle function after exercise-induced damage [3].
Unlike vitamin C and E, which are important vitamins in many ways, they can interfere with the body's natural adaptive responses to exercise, EGT’s unique sulfur-containing structure enables it to selectively target oxidative damage without disrupting the beneficial inflammatory signaling essential for muscle repair and growth. Furthermore, EGT’s high stability and resistance to breakdown allow it to remain active in the body for extended periods, providing consistent support during recovery.
A preclinical rodent study further highlighted EGT’s potential: mice supplemented with EGT for one week ran 41% longer before reaching exhaustion [2]. These findings suggest that EGT may enhance endurance and promote faster recovery after exercise, making it a promising choice for active individuals seeking to optimize their performance and recovery.
Additional Benefits
Beyond its athletic benefits, EGT has demonstrated significant skin health benefits. Studies have shown EGT effectively protects the skin from UVA-induced oxidative damage, outperforming other antioxidants such as CoQ10 and Vitamin E [4]. Its antioxidant properties are believed to shield the skin from harmful radiation, preserving skin hydration, elasticity, and preventing premature aging.
Why Consider EGT?
Whether you're an athlete, fitness enthusiast, or someone looking to support overall health, EGT's unique properties make it a promising supplement. Its ability to protect cells, reduce inflammation, and enhance muscle recovery offers numerous benefits for those seeking to optimize physical performance and well-being.
What Stacks Well With EGT?
To amplify EGT’s benefits, combining it with synergistic ingredients can enhance its performance. One standout companion is Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis), a time-tested adaptogen renowned for its ability to improve energy production and oxygen utilization. A study published in the Asian Journal of Biological Sciences demonstrated that three weeks of Cordyceps supplementation improved oxygen saturation levels by 95% and significantly reduced treadmill fatigue [5]. Together, EGT and Cordyceps form a powerful duo that can:
• Enhance Endurance: EGT reduces oxidative stress and protects cells, while Cordyceps boosts oxygen capacity, enabling longer and more intense physical performance.
• Accelerate Recovery: EGT’s antioxidant power pairs with Cordyceps’ adaptogenic properties to combat fatigue and support quicker recovery post-workout.
• Support Overall Health: Both ingredients promote resilience by reducing oxidative and inflammatory markers, making them ideal for high-stress lifestyles and active individuals.
The Science Behind EGT20+
Allmax EGT20+ delivers the best of both worlds by combining 20 mg of highly stable Ergothioneine with 100 mg of Cordyceps in every serving. This premium formulation leverages the antioxidant power of EGT and the adaptogenic benefits of Cordyceps to enhance endurance, recovery, and overall health. Whether you're striving for peak athletic performance or looking to support a healthier lifestyle, EGT20+ is the best choice for those seeking the cutting-edge in their supplementation routine.
References
[1] Cheah, I. K., & Halliwell, B. (2021). Ergothioneine, recent developments - ScienceDirect. Redox biology, 42, 101868.
[2] Fovet, T., Guilhot, C., Delobel, P., Chopard, A., Py, G., & Brioche, T. (2022). Frontiers | Ergothioneine Improves Aerobic Performance Without Any Negative Effect on Early Muscle Recovery Signaling in Response to Acute Exercise, 13, 834597.
[3] Bailey, D. M., Williams, C., Betts, J. A., Thompson, D., & Hurst, T. L. (2011). Oxidative stress, inflammation and recovery of muscle function after damaging exercise: effect of 6-week mixed antioxidant supplementation | European Journal of Applied Physiology, 111(6), 925–936.
[4] Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology. (2008). Photobiology, phototherapy, and photosensitivity diseases. The natural antioxidant L-ergothioneine and its receptor/transporter OCTN-1 participate in the skin's response to UVA-induced oxidative damage - Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 58(2 Supplement 2), AB111.
[5] Pasha, Shaik & Rajan, Anju & Rathod, Laxmikant & Musfera, Shaik & Pasha, Chand. (2024). Improved Oxygen Saturation and Performance of Athletes using Cordyceps militaris. Asian Journal of Biological Sciences. 17. 85-92.
