Mushrooms are not just a tasteful addition to your favorite dishes. They are also full of powerful connections that support energy levels, brain function and overall well -being.
But with so many options that exist, you might wonder which mushrooms are the healthiest.
What are the healthiest mushrooms?
It depends on your goals. For example, if you are looking for more endurance and energy, Cordyceps is perhaps the most advantageous choice.
On the other hand, Lion’s Mane can stimulate your cognitive health, and Rishi and Chaga promote immunity to infection and a long service life.
In this article we will mainly focus on two of the most investigated varieties: Cordyceps and Lion’s Mane.
Cordyceps
Traditionally used in Chinese and Tibetan medicine, Cordyceps – in particular Cordyceps Sinensis – is a family of mushrooms Known for its vitality and performance-enhancing properties, both for athletes and non-athletes. But it also offers some other impressive benefits.
Cordyceps for energy and endurance
Some examinations suggest that Cordyceps extracts can considerably dilate the aorta, the main artery of the body. This increases blood circulation, which may lead to improved endurance and persistent energy levels during the day.
One study found that the daily consumption of 4 grams of Cordyceps had little effect for a week, but three weeks of supplementation led to better oxygen intake and use. This meant that participants could stay physically active for longer before they tired.
Scientists believe that this is due to the ability of Cordyceps to increase the ATP production, the primary energy source of the body. ATP feeds muscle contractions and metabolism, which means that the body performs at its peak during physical activity.
Cordyceps for Metabolic Health
Research suggests that Cordyceps can also be beneficial for your metabolic health, such as these mushrooms:
- Regulate blood sugar levelsPossibly combating insulin resistance
- Lower triglycerides and cholesterol, promoting cardiovascular health
- Protect kidney function by reducing stress markers in the kidneys, even in diabetics with a risk of kidney failure
These effects can be due to the polysaccharides of Cordyceps, a kind of carbohydrates. These connections not only help to protect the kidneys, but also:
- Reduce systemic inflammation
- Improve the intestinal health
- Fight the signs and effects of aging
Lion’s Mane
If you are more worried about your cognitive health, Lion’s Mane might be the best fungus addition to your diet. It is a unique, rugged mushroom that has been appreciated for centuries by traditional Chinese medicine practitioners.
Lion’s Mane for Brain Health
Lion’s Manes is full of natural connections that stimulate the nerve growth factor (NGF), a protein that helps brain cells grow, repair and stay healthy. By raising NGF levels, Lion’s Mane can:
- Promoting neuron regeneration, helping to grow and restore brain cells
- Support for re-myelination, a process that protects nerve fibers and facilitates smooth communication between brain cells
- Retain memory and help ward off cognitive decline
Research also connects Lion’s Mane to a better short-term and visual recognition memory, both of which tend to fall with age. However, studies have shown that these brain strengthening benefits disappeared after stopping, so consistency is the key.
Which mushrooms are a superfood?
Many experts consider all Types of mushrooms superfoods, because they have few calories and many nourishing plant connections, such as B vitamins.
Cordyceps and Lion’s Mane are best known for their energy and brain improvement options. But other varieties also offer considerable health benefits:
- Reishi: The Chinese have called historic Reishi the ‘mushroom of immortality’. They use it for centuries to support immune function, reduce stress and promote the lifespan.
- Chaga: This is one of the most antioxidant -rich mushrooms, known for its ability to combat oxidative stress and inflammation and at the same time protect cellular health.
- Maitake: nicknamed the “Hen of the Woods”, research shows that Maitake can be a powerful support for healthy blood sugar levels and immune function.
Choosing the healthiest mushroom for you comes down to your specific goals. However, if you are looking for better completed wellness benefits, you don’t just have to choose one.
Recording a variety of mushrooms – whether through food, tea or supplements – can be an excellent way to support your health, of course. Try some of these medicinal mushrooms today and feed your body and mind for the long term.
References:
Neuronal health – Can culinary and medicinal mushrooms help? – PMC
Neurotrophy and neuroprotective effects of Hericon Erinaceus – PMC
Medicinal mushrooms: their bioactive components, nutritional value and application in Vitamin B12-containing vegetable food sources for Vegetarian PMC
Functional food production – An overview – PMC
Neurotrophy and neuroprotective effects of Hericon Erinaceus – PMC