Functional Mushrooms
I’m facinated by the fungi kingdom. I love to cook with them and also taking them in extract capsules. These are the three functional mushrooms that I’m currently taking.
Lion’s Mane
I really enjoy cooking Lion’s Mane and also taking extracts in capsules. I find that it helps me be more focused, helps with my memory and mood, be less anxious, and also helps with nerve health. Some studies suggest that it may help protect against memory challenges caused by the buildup of amyloid beta — a substance that forms the brain plaques associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
Herecenones and erinacenes, are two natural substances found in Lion’s Mane that can stimulate Nerve Growth Factor (NGF). when they cross the blood brain barrier. NGF is a protein that helps in the production of new nerve cells and also strengthens and repairs existing ones.
I enjoy taking functional mushrooms extract capsules from Gaia Herbs and Real Mushrooms which uses fruiting bodies of mushrooms and hot water extraction that breaks down the chitin cell membrane, providing high level of beta glucans which is extremely immunoactive in our body.
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Reishi
I like taking Reishi mushrooms extract capsules from Gaia Herbs and Real Mushrooms at night before going to bed. I find that it helps improve my sleep and makes me feel more well rested and calmer the following day.
Turkey Tail
Another of my favorite functional mushrooms that I’m currently taking right now is Turkey Tail extract capsules from Gaia Herbs and Real Mushrooms. Turkey Tail mushrooms have the highest levels of beta glucans and I take them to enhance my immune system.
I am fascinated by the fungi kingdom. I recommend the Fantastic Fungi documentary on Netflix.
Conclusion.
Not all functional mushroom extracts are created equal. Some companies are using the mycelium, which are grown on grains and are very low in beta glucans. I always look for fruiting bodies mushroom extract capsules with high levels of beta glucans.
