The Benefits of Lion's Mane Mushrooms
A lion's mane mushroom is an edible fungus with a long history of use in traditional medicine of many cultures. A lion's mane mushroom is white or cream-colored with a fuzzy, Mane-like appearance. They grow in the wild on fallen trees and dead logs or can be cultivated indoors.
Lion's mane is rich in antioxidants, polysaccharides, and many other brain/body healthy compounds, which promote benefits across the body.
Below are some of the potential health benefits of consuming Lion's mane mushrooms:
1. Boosts Cognitive Function and Memory
One of the most well-known benefits of Lion's mane mushrooms is their ability to improve cognitive function and memory. This is believed to be due to compounds like ergothioneine and hericystin, which are known to protect the brain from damage. The mushroom is also known to induce the expression of nerve growth factor, aiding in the growth and development of neurons.
One study showed that Lion's mane mushrooms improved cognitive function in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI). MCI is a condition that can lead to dementia.
Another study showed that Lion's mane mushrooms improved memory and mental clarity in healthy adults.
2. Promotes Heart health
Lion's mane mushrooms are also good for the heart. They contain compounds like hericystin and eritadenine, which have been shown to lower cholesterol and blood pressure. Studies have shown the prevention of the oxidation of cholesterol in the bloodstream by use of lion's mane extract.
3. Fights inflammation
Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can lead to several diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.
Lion's mane mushrooms contain compounds, which have been shown to reduce inflammation.
Studies show that Lion's mane mushrooms can help to reduce inflammation in people with arthritis. Additionally, Lion's mane mushrooms have been shown to reduce inflammation in the gut, which may benefit people with inflammatory bowel disease.
4. Boosts Immunity
Lion's mane mushrooms are also believed to help boost the immune system. This is due to compounds like polysaccharides and beta-glucans, which are known stimulants of the immune system. Additionally, Lion's mane is a good source of antioxidants, which can help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
Studies show that Lion's mane mushrooms can help reduce the severity of colds and flu and may also help prevent other infections.
5. Helps with Weight Loss
Weight loss is a complex process that involves many factors. However, a healthy diet and exercise are two of the essential components of any weight loss plan.
Lion's mane mushrooms are a good source of fiber, which has been shown to help with weight loss by promoting feelings of fullness and helping to reduce calorie intake. Additionally, Lion's mane mushrooms are low in calories and fat.
6. Reduces symptoms of anxiety and depression
Anxiety and depression are two common mental health disorders that can significantly impact the quality of life. Lion's mane mushrooms contain compounds that can induce the expression of many neurotrophic compounds and monoamines , which have been shown to reduce anxiety and depression.
One study showed that Lion's mane mushrooms improved symptoms of anxiety and depression in people with mild cognitive impairment (MCI).
Another study showed that Lion's mane mushrooms improved symptoms of anxiety and depression in healthy adults.
In Conclusion
Lion's mane mushrooms have several important health benefits. This is why including them in your diet could be helpful for a variety of reasons.