With the stress and demands of modern, fast-paced existence, it can be difficult going about our busy lives.
In fact, research has shown 75% of people regularly feel physical or mental stress. That’s most of us. Modern life can be demanding and negatively affects people’s health and happiness.
Not only that, but with so little spare time, it's easy to forget about the thing that matters most: our health and wellbeing.
At Shroomex, we believe mushrooms are the antidote to modern life. They are one of the richest sources of bioactive compounds known to man, used for over 5000 years to support health and wellbeing.
Modern science is beginning to catch on to functional mushrooms, with numerous studies supporting their powerful adaptogenic benefits, including supported immunity, stress relief, cognitive function and much more, without the usual negative side effects. Modern research continues to unveil their profound effects on health, which is exciting and frankly long overdue!
Today, those who harness the power of mushrooms can seamlessly enhance the six fundamental pillars of wellbeing: immunity, energy, focus, inflammation control, gut health, and stress management.
In doing so, we can all hope to live happier, healthier and stress free lives, all with the power of mushrooms!
1. Immune system
All the 5 main functional mushrooms; namely Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, Chaga, Reishi and Turkey Tail, contain high levels of beta glucans. Beta glucans, which are complex polysaccharides, play a pivotal role in supporting the immune system. They are also one of the most thoroughly researched bioactive compounds found within mushrooms.
Research indicates that intake of beta glucans from mushrooms may amplify the activity and responsiveness of white blood cells—our body's immune vanguard. Cells like macrophages and natural killer cells protect and shield the body from infections and ailments, helping to keep you fighting fit.
2. Energy
Cordyceps is a mushroom that has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to support energy and endurance. More recently, professional sportsmen and Olympic athletes have turned to it for its benefits.
After delivering remarkable performances, some of these athletes, who trained at high altitudes and consumed Cordyceps, even faced allegations of cheating. Such is the power of this mighty mushroom!
The active ingredients found in Cordyceps are being studied for their potential to increase the body's production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which is the primary source of energy for our cells. Cordyceps may also help to improve oxygen utilisation by increasing the body's ability to burn glucose for energy, improving both stamina and endurance.
3. Focus
Lion's Mane is a mushroom known for its cognitive function and brain health benefits. Studies have shown the bioactive compounds found in Lion's Mane may improve our focus and concentration, and have the potential to protect against age-related cognitive decline.
Research has shown that the bioactive compounds in Lion's Mane, known as hericenones and erinacines, support a neuroprotective effect, protecting brain cells from damage. This is possible because Lion’s Mane increases the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) in the brain, which helps to improve communication between neurones and promotes overall cognitive health.
4. Inflammation and Longevity
The world's most potent antioxidant is Chaga, the king of functional mushrooms! Oxidation is a process that causes cell death, and ultimately determines how long we live for. When we age, we are essentially oxidising, the accumulation of which causes us to become old and wrinkly.
So using a powerful antioxidant like Chaga may help you live longer and stave off the signs of aging. Not only that, but Chaga has the potential to be highly effective at reducing inflammation.
There are also a host of chronic ailments associated with inflammation. Chaga contains compounds called inotodiol, betulin & betulinic acid. These are the compounds which promote its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Because Chaga is so potent, be careful not to use too much, as we still need some oxidation in order to function optimally.
5. Gut Health
Turkey Tail may also help improve gut barrier function and reduce inflammation in the gut, which can further support gut health. The bioactive compounds found within Turkey Tail mushrooms facilitate the absorption of key nutrients such as B12 and vitamin D, reducing the risk of digestive ailments.
6. Stress
Studies have shown stress to be extremely hazardous, causing chemical responses that negatively impact our health and lead to a shorter life span. But fear not, there is a mushroom that may help! Reishi is known as a potent adaptogen, since it creates a feeling of calm and relaxation which helps us to adapt to stress.
Reishi can also help improve your sleep, which is why a lot of people prefer taking Reishi before bed. One of the main active ingredients in Reishi is a triterpenoid called ganoderic acid, which studies have shown promotes a calming effect on the body. Sleep is incredibly important, with good sleep associated with numerous improvements in health markers such as blood pressure, heart health etc.
The Easy and Best Way of Getting Functional Mushrooms in Your Diet
The easiest and best way to incorporate functional mushrooms into your routine is through pure mushroom extracts. With a high quality mushroom extract, you get 20-30 times the amount of beneficial compounds than if you were to eat the same weight in raw mushroom. Since it is extracted, you are getting a purer amount of beneficial compounds like beta glucans and triterpenoids. Extracts are also much more bioavailable, since the extraction process breaks down the tough mushroom cell walls that keep the beneficia compounds locked inside.
With a 20:1 extract, you would need to eat 20kg of fresh mushrooms, just to get the same benefits as 1kg of pure extract.
These extracts can come in various forms of supplement product, the most common being either capsule or powder format. Additionally, you can also find mushroom coffee blends that combine the benefits of mushrooms with the natural caffeine found in coffee. This will give you an all-natural boost of energy and focus. Check out Magic Brew for the highest quality and best tasting mushroom coffee on the market.
Or If You Have Time, You Can Get Cooking…
Some people choose to consume functional mushrooms by adding them to their cooking. Mushrooms such as Shiitake, Maitake, and Enoki can be used fresh or dried, and go well with a variety of dishes. But the problem with this is a lot of functional mushrooms cannot be added to food. Popular mushrooms like Chaga, Reishi & Turkey Tail are near impossible to add to food since their composition is hard and woody, so not great for eating.
While mushrooms can be a delicious addition to your cooking, it can be less effective than taking mushroom supplements. This is the best and most convenient way of getting a concentrated dose of mushrooms.
Quality Is the Most Important Factor With Functional Mushrooms
When it comes to taking functional mushroom supplements, it's essential to choose a brand that uses high quality, organic mushrooms and follows good manufacturing practices.
Look for third-party certifications, such as the USDA Organic seal or NSF International, which certify that the product meets certain standards for purity and quality. There must be a 3rd party lab test report to back up the numbers shown on the label. At Shroomex, we make sure to use the highest quality testing standards available, so you can be confident in getting a product that will do wonders for your health.
And if you are uncertain about anything when it comes to taking mushroom supplements, make sure to follow the dosage instructions that are on the label. And if you want to speak with some mushroom experts, you can always reach out to us at Shroomex. We will be happy to help!
Summary
In conclusion, functional mushrooms can play a vital role in supporting overall health and wellness by addressing six key pillars: immune system, energy, focus, inflammation, gut health, and stress. Each mushroom has unique compounds like beta glucans and triterpenoids, that have been shown to benefit the body and mind in many ways.
Incorporating functional mushrooms into your diet through supplements, cooking, or even a tasty mushroom coffee blend can make a massive difference to your health and wellness. To find the most potent and pure mushroom extracts in the world, check out the Shroomex range of mushroom products.
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