Mushrooms have been used for centuries in Chinese medicine for their health benefits. The Chinese have referred to them as the “Elixir of Life”. Recently there has been more information on their health benefits ranging from immune health to helping to improve cognition, decreasing anxiety and depression, helping with blood sugars and cholesterol to name a few. You might want to think of them as one of the food boosters for your health. So lets take a look at six of the most common mushrooms and their medicinal benefits.
Reishi; The stress reliever
This has been used for thousands of years and has the following health benefits1. helps to modulate blood sugars and anti-inflammatory2. Impairs breast cancer stem cells3. Promotes cognitive health4. Promotes healthy detoxification5. Improves exercise performance6. Helps with weight management7. Improves sleep
I drink a cup of Reishi infused coffee in the morning. You can also find it in tea as well.
Turkey Tail; The cancer fighter
1. Helps prevent and treat common cold and flu by supporting the immune system
2. Strengthens immune system
3. Aids in digestion with prebiotics
4. Can help combat breast cancer
You can find this as a supplement or in a powdered form that can be added to smoothies.
Cordyceps; The pick me up
1. Helps lower blood sugar
2. Some studies have shown it can kill colorectal cancer cells
3. Improves exercise; athletic performance and quicker post work-out recovery.
Lions Mane; The Brain Booster
1. Helps with cognition and protects brain from degeneration I use this one regularly in my patients with cognitive decline and also for prevention, I personally take this one daily to enhance my memory and energy.
2. Helps modulate triglycerides
3. Mood enhancer
Chaga; The immune Booster
1.. Enhances immune function
2. Excellent contenders in fighting free radicals and inflammation.
3. Combats oxidative stress which is linked to aging.
You can add this to a smoothie or make a Chaga Chai latte
Shiitake; Heart friendly mushroom
1. In mice studies this mushroom has been shown to lower LDL and contain compounds that inhibit absorption of cholesterol in the liver,
2. Contain phytonutrients good for heart health
Great mushroom to use in the kitchen for cooking.
So begin to incorporate mushrooms in your diet regularly and start to reap the health benefits.
Resources
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24266378/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19651243/
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11520942/
