Benefits of Using Adaptogenic Superfood Mushrooms

Mushrooms already known for its highly beneficial properties in terms of nutrition.In Traditional Chinese Medicine, various types of “healing” and “superfood” mushrooms have been used over centuries, that support overall wellness and longevity.

While common mushrooms like button mushrooms, crimini, portobello, shiitake, oyster are versatile for cooking, they’re all generally nutritious and provide these benefits:

• Low in sodium, fat and calories, high in fiber and protein; 20-30% protein by dry weight.
• Rich in the minerals potassium, selenium, copper, zinc and magnesium; oyster mushroom is rich in iron too.
• Rich in the Bcomplex vitamins, riboflavin, niacin and pantothenic acid.
• The only vegetable or fruit for that matter that produces vitamin D when in sunlight and is a source of natural Vitamin D.
• Rich in L-ergothoneine, a powerful antioxidant.
• Rich in cancer fighting nutrients like polysaccharides and linoleic acid.
• Free of cholesterol.
• Inhibit histamine release and are anti inflammatory.

In recent years, some superfood mushrooms used in Ancient Chinese Medicine are gaining more attention in the health and fitness community. Here are some popular mushrooms, one of which is also an ingredient in our upcoming new product!

1. Cordyceps

cordyceps is quickly gaining worldwide attention, even within the modern medicine world. Recent research has shown that cordyceps may promote cellular health and have an anti-depressant effect. Cordyceps have an impressive, natural ability to fight free radicals, infections and inflammation. They are known as disease-fighting mushrooms that have been used for centuries to treat various ailments, are also a natural aphrodisiac and much more. This “superfood” also fight the effects of aging and stress, and also increase energy levels. Cordyceps can act like mild stimulants or “adaptogen herbs,” fighting stress or fatigue. A study showed that cordyceps consumption helped athletes sustain intense workouts during extended periods of time due to higher production of ATP.

Additionally, they’re also used to help treat:

• respiratory infections like chronic bronchitis, coughs, colds and the flu
• reproductive problems and sexual dysfunction
• kidney disorders, bladder infections and urination problems
• Asthma, low circulation and irregular heartbeats
• hepatitis B
• liver disorders
• muscle weakness

2. Chaga Mushrooms

These mushrooms grow on birch trees and are arguably the most potent antioxidant on this planet, even compared to moringa tree and other sources of antioxidants. They’re also rich in a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, including B-complex vitamins, vitamin D, potassium, amino acids, fiber, copper, selenium, zinc, iron, manganese, magnesium and calcium. Some of the benefits of chaga mushrooms are:

• It calms the nervous system

• Its proven to positively affect various stomach diseases and ulcers
• It stimulates the immune system
• It helps reduce blood sugar and fight diabetes

These mushrooms are highly valued throughout Asia and Europe as both a health superfood, tonic, brain booster and a potent medicine. It is also known to increases longevity and boosts ‘chi’ (life energy).

3. Reishi Mushrooms

These mushrooms have been used for its healing abilities for thousands of years. Throughout history in holistic medicine practices and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), reishi mushrooms have been considered to be adaptogen herb-like substances, helping us deal with the negative effects of stress ( increased inflammation, low energy levels, damaged blood vessels and various types of hormonal imbalances).

Recent studies suggest that reishi mushrooms can lower inflammation and increase the release of natural killer cells, making it ideal as a natural cancer treatment and for preventing heart disease. Research also shows that reishi mushrooms help regulate various cellular functions and systems, including the endocrine (hormonal), immune, cardiovascular, central nervous and digestive systems. People have also noticed a quick improvement in their energy levels, mental states and moods, while experiencing less aches, pains, allergies, digestive issues and infections. Reishi mushroom extract has also shown to speed up regeneration of healthy liver cells and release free radicals built up in the organ, promoting overall health and wellness.They also fight allergies and asthma.

4. Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Lion’s mane mushroom is popular in TCM and is a nootropic food. It’s popularly known as a brain-boosting mushroom. One study published the benefits of lion’s mane mushroom as “antibiotic, anticarcinogenic, antidiabetic, anti-fatigue, antihypertensive, anti-hyperlipodemic, anti-senescence [anti-aging], cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and neuroprotective, and improves anxiety, cognitive function, and depression.”A 2012 study conducted in Malaysia found that consuming lion’s mane mushroom could actually regenerate damaged cells from peripheral nerve injury and repair nerves.Furthermore, lion’s mane mushroom has been found to potentially slow the progression or reverse various types of cancer from spreading, including leukemia, stomach cancer, lung, cervical, liver, colon and breast cancer.

Extracts of lion’s mane can also prevent the increase of LDL cholesterol (“bad” cholesterol), and may be able to prevent blood clots and help to reduce the risk of stroke. Lion’s mane mushroom has been shown to improve the functioning of the digestive system and stomach, and are also useful in healing wounds as they are incredibly high in antioxidants.

A lion’s mane mushroom supplement may also help you to feel better by improving sleep and reducing the effects of mental health issues.

As proven, these mushrooms have been gaining popularity in the USA and North America; however, we do suggest carrying out some extensive research on them yourself before investing in any mushroom supplements or products. It is also advisable to consult a holistic health dietician if it is safe to take with other supplements or ailments. Don’t forget to only purchase them from trusted brands at the natural health and supplement store.

Check out our Ergogenics 8 Mushroom Blend Hot Drinks as a way to include mushrooms as a part of your diet.