Emma Wilson
Mushroom supplements are increasingly popular, but do they live up to the hype? While the research is still ongoing, some types of mushrooms are associated with a variety of health benefits. For example, reishi is often recommended to support immune health in patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation, while chaga is used to boost endurance and may help fight off degenerative diseases. Turkey tail is another mushroom that is rich in protein-bound polysaccharides, stimulating immune responses. Lion's mane is a popular supplement for improving focus and brain health. However, it's important to remember that supplements are not a replacement for a well-balanced diet, and it's always best to consult a doctor or dietitian for advice.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Brand | Real Mushrooms, OM, FreshCap, Host Defense, Horbäach, Genius, Nello, Everyday Dose, RYZE SUPERFOODS, Gaia Herbs |
| Product Type | Capsules, Coffee, Drink Mix, Gummies |
| Ingredients | Lion's Mane, Cordyceps, Turkey Tail, Reishi, Chaga, Ashwagandha, Collagen, L-Theanine, MCT Oil, Beta Glucans, Omega-3, Vitamin B12, Vitamin B5, Ginkgo Biloba |
| Benefits | Focus, Energy, Immune Support, Brain Health, Digestive Health, Wellness, Calmness, Liver Function, Anti-Ageing, Stress Relief, Heart Health, Gut Health, Blood Sugar Control |
| Dietary Requirements | Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Non-GMO, Allergen-Free |
| Cost | $21.99 - $27.99 |
| Awards | Real Mushrooms: Best Mushroom Supplement Company by ConsumerLab for 4 consecutive years |
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What You'll Learn
- Reishi, cordyceps, lion's mane, chaga, and turkey tail are popular functional mushrooms
- Real Mushrooms has been voted the best mushroom supplement company four years in a row
- Mushroom supplements can improve focus and energy, reduce stress, and strengthen immunity
- Whole food mushrooms provide prebiotic fibres that supplements don't
- Mushroom coffee is a popular way to consume functional mushrooms
Reishi, cordyceps, lion's mane, chaga, and turkey tail are popular functional mushrooms
Reishi, cordyceps, lion's mane, chaga, and turkey tail mushrooms are popular functional mushrooms. They are often marketed as supplements, and are said to provide a wide range of health benefits.
Functional mushrooms, also known as medicinal mushrooms, are claimed to have healing properties in addition to nutritional benefits. They are said to be devoid of the psychoactive properties found in "magic" mushrooms.
These five mushrooms have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years, but they have also been used by many indigenous cultures worldwide for over 2,000 years. In traditional Chinese medicine, lion's mane has been used to promote digestion and treat cancer, while reishi has been used to prevent ageing and increase energy. In modern-day China, reishi is often recommended to support the immune health of patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) has been a staple in traditional medicine among Indigenous communities across the world. Native Siberians would add ground chaga to teas, soups, and stews, believing it to ward off degenerative diseases. It was also used as a remedy for ulcers, liver ailments, and tuberculosis. Russian First Nations used it to slow the growth of visible tumours, and today, hunters in rural Russia consume chaga to boost endurance on long treks. Chaga is said to provide calmness without sedation, making it a popular additive to morning coffee for an energy boost.
Turkey tail is one of the most researched macrofungi in oncology. It is rich in protein-bound polysaccharides that stimulate immune responses, particularly in the function of T-cells and NK cells.
Lion's mane has been the subject of a 2009 study, which suggested that people who consumed three grams of lion's mane extract for 16 weeks performed better on cognitive tests than a placebo group. Animal studies have also suggested that lion's mane may protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, but there is little data on its effects on humans.
Cordyceps is said to contain a compound called cordycepin, which may provide health benefits such as reducing inflammation, improving heart health, and enhancing immunity.
While these mushrooms may provide health benefits, nutritionists advise that consuming whole mushrooms is preferable to taking supplements, as they offer fibre and nutrients that supplements do not. However, if you are caffeine-sensitive, mushroom supplements can be an energizing alternative.
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Real Mushrooms has been voted the best mushroom supplement company four years in a row
Real Mushrooms has been awarded the title of "Best Mushroom Supplement Company" for four consecutive years by ConsumerLab, a testament to its commitment to transparency, product purity, and high standards. This recognition is based on rigorous scientific processes and consumer satisfaction, with ConsumerLab independently testing Real Mushrooms' products against competitors.
Real Mushrooms stands out in the supplement industry due to its dedication to transparency and product purity. They ensure their supplements are derived exclusively from the fruiting bodies of fungi, avoiding the use of mycelium grown on grain, which can reduce potency. This commitment results in a higher concentration of beta-glucans, creating a more effective supplement.
The brand has earned the trust of consumers by consistently delivering high-quality, scientifically-backed products. Real Mushrooms' supplements provide various health benefits, including improved focus, energy, immune support, and gut health. Their products are carefully sourced and certified organic, with no artificial additives or preservatives, catering to specific dietary needs.
The "Best Mushroom Supplement Company" award is a reflection of Real Mushrooms' leadership and dedication to the dietary supplements market. With consumer feedback at the heart of their process, they have established themselves as a trusted and respected brand, committed to the wellbeing of their customers. Real Mushrooms' consistent recognition by ConsumerLab showcases their ability to maintain high standards and meet customer expectations year after year.
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Mushroom supplements can improve focus and energy, reduce stress, and strengthen immunity
Mushroom supplements are all the rage in health food stores, but do they live up to the hype? While eating whole mushrooms provides prebiotic fibres that support gut health and blood sugar control, the benefits of mushroom supplements are less clear. However, there is some evidence that mushroom supplements can improve focus and energy, reduce stress, and strengthen immunity.
Improving Focus and Energy
Lion's mane is a popular mushroom supplement for improving focus and energy. It is known for its ability to support brain health and is often taken in the morning to improve focus during the day. Other mushrooms that may improve focus include cordyceps, a popular pre-workout boost, and maitake.
Reducing Stress
Reishi mushroom is often consumed in the evening to help relax the body and reduce stress. Chaga is another mushroom that can provide calmness without sedation, making it a good addition to your morning coffee or an afternoon boost.
Strengthening Immunity
Turkey tail is a well-researched mushroom that is rich in protein-bound polysaccharides, which stimulate immune responses. Reishi and chaga mushrooms are also known to support immune health.
While mushroom supplements may offer potential benefits, it is important to remember that they are not a replacement for a well-balanced diet. It is always advisable to consult a doctor or registered dietitian before taking any new supplement.
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Whole food mushrooms provide prebiotic fibres that supplements don't
Whole food mushrooms are a rich source of prebiotic fibres, which are essential for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome. Prebiotics are a type of dietary fibre that acts as food for the beneficial microbes in our gut, keeping them alive and healthy. While mushroom supplements may claim to offer similar benefits, they often lack the same fibre content as whole mushrooms.
Mushrooms, such as maitake, shiitake, and lion's mane, contain prebiotic fibres that support gut health and blood sugar control. These fibres remain intact when the mushrooms are consumed in their whole food form, but they can be broken down or lost during the processing of mushroom supplements. Therefore, eating the whole mushroom ensures you obtain the full spectrum of prebiotic fibres.
Additionally, whole food mushrooms offer a natural source of nutrients that may be lacking in supplements. Cooking with mushrooms adds flavour and nutrition to your meals, enhancing the overall benefits of including mushrooms in your diet. Whether you sauté them with onions and garlic or use them as a meat alternative, whole food mushrooms provide a tasty and nutritious option.
The use of mushrooms for medicinal purposes has a long history, dating back to ancient Egyptian and Chinese cultures. They have been valued for their ability to promote general health and longevity, and their medicinal properties have been recognised in traditional Chinese medicine and by indigenous communities worldwide. Today, mushrooms are known to possess anti-allergic, anti-cholesterol, anti-tumour, and anti-cancer properties, highlighting their potential as a powerful source of pharmaceutical substances.
When considering mushroom supplements, it is essential to prioritise whole food sources over processed options. The supplement industry, particularly for functional mushrooms, may be unregulated, and the lack of oversight raises concerns about contamination and toxicity. By choosing to consume whole food mushrooms, you not only obtain the full range of prebiotic fibres but also benefit from the natural nutrients and flavours that mushrooms have to offer.
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Mushroom coffee is a popular way to consume functional mushrooms
Mushroom coffee is often marketed as a healthier alternative to regular coffee, with claims of improved mental and physical performance, better sleep, more energy, enhanced focus, immune-boosting properties, and reduced inflammation. The medicinal mushrooms used in these coffee blends are believed to have immune-boosting benefits and the potential to regulate metabolism. Furthermore, the high antioxidant activity of these mushrooms may contribute to slowing down the ageing process.
Common varieties of mushrooms used in mushroom coffee include chaga, lion's mane, reishi, cordyceps, king trumpet, and turkey tail. These mushrooms are chosen for their perceived health benefits. For example, lion's mane is known for supporting brain health and is often used in the morning for improved focus. Turkey tail is rich in protein-bound polysaccharides, making it ideal for preparing the body's immune response for commuting or a busy day.
While mushroom coffee is trending, it is important to note that the research supporting the claimed benefits is limited. Most studies have been conducted on animal models, and more human research is needed to conclusively determine the effectiveness of mushroom supplements. Additionally, the lack of regulation in the supplement industry raises concerns about the accuracy of product labels. Nevertheless, mushroom coffee is generally safe to consume, and you can explore this option if you are interested in incorporating functional mushrooms into your routine.
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Frequently asked questions
Mushroom supplements are said to improve focus and energy, regulate stress, and strengthen immunity. They are also believed to help fight obesity and slow the ageing process. However, there is not enough evidence to validate these health benefits.
Real Mushrooms has been named the "Best Mushroom Supplement Company" by ConsumerLab for four consecutive years. The company has earned this recognition for its transparency, product purity, and adherence to high standards. Its commitment to transparency and purity is unmatched in the supplement industry. Other highly-rated mushroom supplement products include Host Defense Mushrooms Lion's Mane, Everyday Dose Premium Adaptogenic Mushroom Coffee, and Bunkell Mushroom Coffee.
When choosing a mushroom supplement, consider the following:
- Nutrient profile: How much mushroom extract is included in the recommended daily amount?
- Quality: How were the mushrooms grown and sourced? Are they certified organic? Have they been independently tested for contaminants and allergens?
- Additives: Does the product contain additives, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, or colourings?
- Dietary requirements: Does the product meet specific dietary needs, such as being vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free?
- Value for money: How does the product compare to others on a cost-per-day basis?
