THE BENEFITS OF FUNCTIONAL MUSHROOMS

“There is no other herb which can provide the multitude of benefits that functional mushrooms can,” says Dawson. “All mushrooms contain compounds called beta glucans which support heathy gut microbes and digestive function alongside helping to train immune cells to be tolerant when needed and to identify and remember intruders when required.”

Here’s a look at the di erent health and wellbeing concerns that can benefit from functional mushrooms.

MENTAL FOCUS

Known as the brain mushroom, Lion’s Mane is renowned for its cognitivesupporting abilities for supporting memory, focus, clarity and overall brain health. A recent study by researchers from the University of Queensland and scientists in South Korea, published in the Journal of Neurochemistry, even suggests that compounds in Lion’s Mane mushrooms may boost brain cell growth and improve memory.

IMMUNE BOOSTING

At this time of year, it’s a good idea to do what we can to prime our immune system against the season’s ills and chills. Full of fibre, minerals including copper and selenium, B vitamins, and many of the essential amino acids required by the body to create protein, Shiitake supports a strong immune response – the mushroom supports a balanced cytokine response so that our immune system is responding the way it should to an immune threat.

The Reishi mushroom is also known for its immune-boosting e ects; its beta glucans (complex sugars) are believed to support the immune system, decreasing the potential for coming down with something.

“They are the kind of herb you can’t ignore. These are the herbs you take before you get sick, so you don’t get sick and you reach your potential,” says Mason Taylor from SuperFeast. “That’s what the functional mushrooms are.”

RELAXATION

Reishi mushrooms are also adaptogenic stress-soothers that may support balanced cortisol – a hormone that helps the body respond to stress.

“Reishi has a well-earned reputation for supporting a healthy immune system and good night’s sleep; studies show it supports liver cell health, too. A ‘Queen on a chess board’ is a great way to describe it,” says Dawson.

SKIN SUPPORT

Dubbed ‘the beauty mushroom’, Tremella supports healthy skin ageing and skin hydration – its antioxidant properties protect the skin from oxidation, leaving a youthful complexion, and with the ability for Tremella mushroom to hold up to 500 times its weight in water, it has an impressive performance in helping the skin retain moisture, similar to hyaluronic acid.

“Tremella supports skin hydration as well as positive ageing for a radiant and fresh-looking complexion. Considering that our bodies use food nutrients to keep our skin healthy, it makes sense to approach beauty from the inside out,” explains Baylis.

GOOD GUT HEALTH

While most functional mushrooms are beneficial to gut health, Chaga is particularly popular in this area thanks to its high level of antioxidants, support of digestion and immune health, and ability to support healthy blood sugars and pancreas health.

Known as the ‘mushroom of immortality’, research also shows that Chaga mushrooms contain compounds that have been shown to help keep our cells healthy.