Nov 7 in General discussion
Do Mushroom Supplements Work? My Journey and Results
A few months back, I found myself constantly fatigued and feeling "foggy." No matter how much coffee I drank or how early I tried to go to bed, I just couldn’t shake that tired, dragging feeling that seemed to follow me throughout the day. My mind wasn’t as sharp, my energy dipped by midday, and I felt like I was always fighting just to keep up with life.
I tried everything: different diets, exercise routines, vitamins, and more caffeine than I’d like to admit. But I kept feeling the same. That’s when I started looking into natural alternatives, specifically mushrooms. I had heard people talking about the potential benefits of mushroom supplements for energy, mental clarity, and even immune support, but honestly, I was skeptical. Mushrooms? As a supplement? I wasn't convinced, but at that point, I figured it couldn’t hurt to try.
After doing some research, I found that certain types of mushrooms have been used for centuries in traditional medicine and are known for their potential to support focus, energy, and even immune health. I decided to give it a shot. Here’s what I found after a few months of experimenting with different mushroom supplements.
Note: not all mushrooms supplements are the same. The quality, concentration of active ingredients, extraction method.. There are a lot of important factors. For me Nootrum was the game changer.
➡️My Experience with Different Types of Mushrooms
The first thing I realized is that not all mushroom supplements are the same. Each type of mushroom has its own unique benefits, so it’s important to choose the one that aligns with what you’re looking to achieve. Here are the main types I tried:
- Lion's Mane - Known for supporting brain function and memory, Lion’s Mane was the first supplement I tried because it specifically targeted the mental clarity I was looking for. Within a couple of weeks, I noticed that my “brain fog” was lifting, and I could focus on tasks more effectively. It wasn’t a sudden change, but I could definitely tell that I was more “on” throughout the day.
- Cordyceps - I added Cordyceps to the mix after reading that it can help with energy and endurance. After a few weeks, I noticed that my energy levels felt more sustained, especially in the afternoons. I wasn’t crashing as hard, and I felt like I had the stamina to finish out the day without feeling completely drained.
- Reishi - Known as the “mushroom of immortality” in traditional medicine, Reishi is often used for immune support and stress management. I incorporated it to help manage stress levels and promote relaxation. While I didn’t feel an immediate difference, over time I noticed I was handling stressful situations with more ease, and my general mood improved.
- Chaga - Known for its antioxidant properties, Chaga is often used to support the immune system. While I can’t say for sure if it kept me from getting sick, I have noticed that my immune health feels stronger—fewer colds, and when I did get sick, my recovery seemed quicker.
➡️ What Does Science Say?
Each type of mushroom offers unique compounds and benefits. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular mushrooms I’ve tried, along with scientific evidence to back up their claims. These studies gave me more confidence that I was adding something truly beneficial to my routine.
- Lion's Mane Lion’s Mane (Hericium erinaceus) is renowned for its effects on brain health. This mushroom contains compounds like hericenones and erinacines, which have been shown to stimulate the production of nerve growth factor (NGF) – a protein that plays a crucial role in the growth, maintenance, and survival of neurons. Studies suggest Lion’s Mane may help improve cognitive function and memory.
- Cordyceps Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) is known for its potential to boost energy and athletic performance by improving the way our bodies utilize oxygen. It contains adenosine and cordycepin, which can support energy production at the cellular level and enhance endurance.
- Reishi Known as the “mushroom of immortality,” Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) is valued for its potential to reduce stress and support immune function. Reishi contains beta-glucans and triterpenes, which are compounds believed to have calming effects and immune-modulating properties.
- Chaga Chaga (Inonotus obliquus) is rich in antioxidants, which support the body’s defense against oxidative stress and inflammation. It’s particularly known for its high levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), a powerful antioxidant enzyme.
- Turkey Tail Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor) is packed with polysaccharopeptides, including PSK and PSP, which are studied for their immune-supporting properties. This mushroom is also used as an adjunct treatment in cancer therapy in some countries.
- Maitake Maitake (Grifola frondosa) is a unique mushroom that may support immune function, blood sugar regulation, and even weight management. This mushroom contains beta-glucans, which are believed to enhance immune function and stabilize blood sugar.
➡️ Do Mushroom Supplements Really Work?
So, after months of taking mushroom supplements, do they actually work? For me, the answer is yes. But it’s not a magic pill or an overnight fix. The changes were gradual, but they felt real. I started noticing that my energy levels were more consistent, my mental clarity improved, and I was handling stress better. These supplements didn’t turn me into a superhero, but they definitely helped me feel more balanced and resilient.
Also, it’s important to buy from brands that put enough of each. There are too many mushroom coffees and supplements that are a waste of money. Read on how much you need to take of each and contrast it with the label.
Another thing I’ve learned is that consistency is key. I took these supplements daily, usually as part of my morning routine, and it took about a month before I started to notice tangible results. And while I saw some benefits from each mushroom individually, the combination of Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, and Reishi seemed to work best for my needs.
🤓 Extra Reading for those of you who are interested 🤓
1. Lion’s Mane
- Study on Cognitive Function: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19541792/
- Animal Study on Memory and Cognitive Benefits: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15630186/
2. Cordyceps
- Study on VO2 Max and Endurance in Adults:
- Study on Increased Energy Levels in Older Adults: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25640428/
3. Reishi
- Study on Immune Function and Inflammation: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18682921/
- Study on Fatigue and Well-Being in Individuals with Chronic Fatigue: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10767401/
4. Chaga
- Study on Antioxidant Properties and DNA Protection: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25100714/
- Study on Immune System Activity: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24493851/
5. Turkey Tail
- Study on Immune Support for Cancer Patients: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3663274/
- Study on Enhanced Natural Killer (NK) Cell Activity: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1911192/
6. Maitake
- Study on Blood Sugar Regulation: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11705562/
- Study on White Blood Cell Activation and Immune Health: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3305587/
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Do Mushroom Supplements Work? My Journey and Results
