Why Mushroom Supplements?

Mushroom supplements have gained significant popularity in recent years, and for good reason. They offer a myriad of health benefits and have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Like five thousand years ago too.

This blog delves into the history, benefits, and types of mushroom supplements to help you understand why incorporating them into your daily routine can be a game-changer for your health.

WHAT ARE MUSHROOM SUPPLEMENTS

The use of mushrooms for health purposes dates back to ancient times. For instance, in 1991, a 5,300-year-old mummy found in the Tyrolean Alps had a medicine kit containing Piptoporus betulinus, a mushroom used as a natural worm-killer and laxative. Crazy, right?

Fast forward to today, mushroom supplements have become a staple in modern wellness routines across the United States, being used as but not limited to:

• Capsules
• Tablets
• Liquid tinctures
• Dried powder
• Coffee / tea

All of this is thanks to their extensive health benefits and the growing body of scientific research supporting these 200+ functional mushrooms and recommending their use in everyday life.

TYPES OF MUSHROOM SUPPLEMENTS

1. Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum): Reishi mushrooms are known for their immune-modulating, cardiovascular, and antioxidant properties. It's now being used to treat conditions such as cancer, Alzheimer's and diabetes, although more research is needed to develop a deeper understanding.

2. Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus): Clinical research has shown that supplementation with Lion’s Mane helps reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression and PTSD, by reducing inflammation and by encouraging nerve growth, both of which influence a healthy mood and mind.

3. Shiitake (Lentinula edodes): Shiitake mushrooms have been used for thousands of years to promote healthy immune function and liver health. A compound derived from shiitake, known as AHCC, has shown promise in promoting a healthy immune response.

4. Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis): Cordyceps mushrooms are famous for boosting energy, stamina, and immune health. They have more of an energizing effect, helping to offset fatigue that often accompanies stress. Traditionally used for enhancing physical performance and overall vitality.

5. Maitake (Grifola frondosa): Maitake mushrooms help regulate blood glucose levels and support ovarian and menstrual health in women. They contain beta-glucans, which have potent immune-modulating properties.

BENEFITS OF MUSHROOM SUPPLEMENTS

1. Decrease the Risk of Cancer: Research has shown that consuming functional foods that contain mushrooms can significantly reduce the risk of cancer. Eating just 18 grams of mushrooms a day can lower your cancer risk by as much as 45%.

2. Lower Sodium Intake: Mushrooms are naturally low in sodium, making them an excellent addition to meals for those looking to reduce their sodium intake. Their savory flavor allows for less added salt in recipes, which can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

3. Promote Lower Cholesterol: Shiitake mushrooms are particularly beneficial for lowering cholesterol. They contain compounds that inhibit the production and absorption of cholesterol, thus lowering overall cholesterol levels in the blood. An excellent substitute for red meat, which is higher in cholesterol and fat.

4. Protect Brain Health: Mushrooms has been found to support brain health, especially in preventing mild cognitive impairment (MCI). A study in Singapore showed that participants who ate more than two cups of mushrooms per week had a 50% lower risk of developing MCI. Even those who ate just one cup saw some benefits.

5. Provide a Source of Vitamin D: Mushrooms are the only type of produce that provides vitamin D, essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Varieties like white button, portabella, and cremini mushrooms can boost their vitamin D content when exposed to sunlight. Just three mushrooms exposed to sunlight for 15 minutes can provide the recommended daily amount of vitamin D.

6. Stimulate a Healthier Gut: The polysaccharides in mushrooms act as prebiotics, stimulating the growth of healthy bacteria in the gut. These carbohydrates pass through the stomach unchanged and reach the colon, where they promote a healthy microbiome, essential for overall health and mood.

7. Support a Healthy Immune System: Mushrooms are rich in nutrients like selenium, vitamin D, and vitamin B6, which support a healthy immune system. For instance, cremini and portabella mushrooms are high in selenium, which helps the body produce antioxidant enzymes to prevent cell damage.

 

 

RISKS OF MUSHROOM SUPPLEMENTS

1. Side Effects, Though Uncommon: Some people may experience mild but unpleasant side effects like dry mouth, itchiness, digestive discomfort, or diarrhea. If you experience any of these, discontinue use and consult your doctor.

2. Mushroom-Medication Interactions: Certain mushrooms can interact with medications. For example, reishi and chaga can thin the blood, increasing the risk of bleeding when taken with blood thinners. Reishi may also lower blood pressure and blood sugar, potentially causing problems for people on medications for those conditions.

3. Vulnerable Populations: Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as people with bleeding disorders or undergoing surgery, should avoid reishi mushrooms due to a lack of safety research in these groups.

4. Limited Research: The long-term effects of many mushroom supplements are still under investigation. While the potential benefits are promising, more studies are needed for a definitive picture.

 

 

HOW TO CHOOSE A MUSHROOM SUPPLEMENT

Every person may respond differently and may need to start low and slowly increase the dose to see how they respond. When choosing a mushroom supplement, consider the following check list:

1. Health Goals: Whether you’re looking for immune support, cognitive health, or cardiovascular benefits, select a mushroom type that aligns with your needs.

2. Check For Purity: Select supplements that are certified organic and free from contaminants, such as metals and sediments that can accumulate in soil where the mushrooms are grown.

3. Check The Extract Ratio: Higher extraction ratios generally indicate that more of the whole body of the mushroom is used in making a supplement. Look for labels that list the exact amount of mushroom extract, and aim for guaranteed concentrations of 30% or more beta-glucan content.

SO WHAT NOW?

It's clear by now that mushroom supplements offer a wide range of health benefits. To add, the supplement market is growing rapidly, reflecting their increasing popularity and recognized health benefits.

We at Forever Mushroom are committed to delivering high-quality mushroom supplements that meet your health needs and exceed your expectations. See you until next time. Byee