Effects of vitamin D-2-fortified shiitake mushroom on bioavailability and bone structure

Abstract

Bioavailability and bone loss inhibitory effects of vitamin D-2 derived from UV-irradiated shiitake mushroom were determined in vivo. The effect of the absence of ovaries on the bioavailability of vitamin D-2 and bone structure was also investigated. Sham operated (sham) and ovariectomized (OVX) rats were divided in 3 groups according to their diets, i.e. control: only vitamin D-deficient diets; UV(X): vitamin D-deficient diets with non-irradiated mushroom powder; UV(O): vitamin D-deficient diets with irradiated mushroom powder. The obtained results showed that vitamin D-2 from shiitake mushroom was able to increase bone mineral density and trabecular bone structure of femur bone as well as its bioavailability. The absence of estrogen induced adverse effects not only on bioavailability of vitamin D-2 but also on trabecular bone. In conclusion, vitamin D-2-fortified shiitake mushroom might help postmenopausal women increase vitamin D-2 bioavailability and retard trabecular bone loss.