From stress relief to better immune health, mushroom supplements are all the rage.
Can they help you?
Anna Martianova/Getty Images
Recently, mushroom supplements have soared in popularity.
Photo:Anna Martianova/Getty Images
What Are Mushroom Supplements?
Mushroom supplements are concentrated versions of various types of medicinal mushrooms.
However, these arent themushrooms you’ll normally find at your grocery store.
And each brings its unique array of benefits to the table.
Heres what they might do for your health.
Its primary health benefit is its profound ability to reduce stress and promote a sense of calm.
Reishi boasts adaptogenic properties, which fire up the body to better cope with and adapt to various stressors.
Maitake mushrooms (also known as hen of the woods) are rich in unique immune-supporting fibers called beta-glucans.
Lion’s mane mushrooms contain brain-enhancing bioactive compounds such as hericenones and erinacines.
Because NGF is also essential for learning and memory, a lions mane supplement may help you focus better.
As helpful as these supplements may be for adults, theyre not appropriate for children.
She also notes that reishi mushrooms may lower blood pressure and should be avoided when taking blood pressure medication.
These can dilute the supplement’s effectiveness and potentially cause unwanted side effects.
Mushrooms are bioaccumulators, meaning they have a greater ability to absorb what they grow on, says Dawson.
This means they can pick up and accumulate things like heavy metals from the substrate.
The effects of mushroom supplements can vary depending on the individual and the specific punch in of mushroom.
For most people, taking mushroom supplements daily is considered safe when consumed in recommended dosages.
Mushroom supplements are safe for many, but not all, people.
Individuals with certain health conditions, such as autoimmune diseases or mushroom allergies, should exercise caution.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women and people on immunosuppressive medications should consult their health care provider before using mushroom supplements.
However, it is crucial to use them responsibly and adhere to recommended dosages.
Galappaththi MCA, Patabendige NM, Premarathne BM, et al.A review ofGanodermatriterpenoids and their bioactivities.Biomolecules.
2022;13(1):24. doi: 10.3390/biom13010024.
2023;12(7):1512. doi: 10.3390/foods12071512.
2021 Nov 6;13(11):3960. doi: 10.3390/nu13113960.
2023;15(22):4842. doi: 10.3390/nu15224842.
