Can Mushrooms Improve Your Brain Health?

Mushrooms for Brain Health

How Do Mushrooms Benefit Brain Health?

Mushrooms have been utilized by society throughout history, for both medicinal purposes and for food. Each species of mushrooms has different active compounds, some of which may contribute to overall brain health.

According to research published by the National Library of Medicine, the Lion’s Mane mushroom, also known as Hericium erinaceus, contains compounds known as erinacines and hericenones^[1].

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These active compounds have shown potential as a neuroprotective agent to stimulate nerve growth release, and prevent the nerve cells from apoptosis.

Additionally, according to some preclinical studies, lion's mane also has been shown to include improve cognitive impairment disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, depression, Parkinson's disease, and ischemic stroke^[2].

Also Read: Top Mushrooms for Anxiety and Depression Relief

In additional to erinacines and hericenones, terpenoids are another active compound found in Lions Mane. A review of different pre-clinical studies published in the National Library of Medicine concludes that terpenoids could serve as a therapeutic option to minimize certain behaviors associated with psychiatric disorders^[3].

Benefits of Mushrooms for Brain Health

Improved Cognitive Performance

Poor memory, impaired language, and spatial orientation issues are some cognitive symptoms associated with Alzheimer's Disease. However, research has shown that a greater intake of mushrooms may have a neuroprotective effect on the brain due to antioxidants found in mushrooms such as ergothioneine, glutathione, and vitamin D^[4].

Behavioral Change

Psilocybin is an additional active compound found in various mushroom species. A review published by the National Library of Medicine highlighted that several controlled trials have suggested Psilocybin as a treatment for mood and anxiety disorders as it may help to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety^[5].

Maddie Nielsen, RDH, discusses whether caffeine affects blood sugar in her YouTube video.

Mental Openness

Psilocybin may also be associated with elevating openness in humans, meaning, an individual may become more sensitive, imaginative, and appreciative of values and other people’s perspectives^[6]. This might be a result of the compound’s ability to induce or increase neuroplasticity.

Types of Mushrooms for Brain

Lion’s Mane

Lion’s Mane is also known as Hericium erinaceus, an edible mushroom found in East Asia that has long been used for medicinal and food purposes. According to research, Lion’s Mane has promising potential as a neuroprotective agent with the ability to stimulate nerve growth and protect nerve cells^[7].

Maz Packham, mBANT, rCNHC, a nutritionist & therapist, was quoted in Women's Health says,

“Lion's mane has been studied for its neuroprotective benefits and may promote the production of nerve growth factor which supports nerve cells and is really important for optimal brain health, focus, and memory.”

Chaga

The Chaga mushroom is native to northern Europe and has been historically used in folk medicine. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, Chaga mushroom is touted to help enhance cognitive health, reduce oxidative-nitrative stress, and improve brain functions such as memory and learning^[8].

Reishi

Reishi, also known as Ganoderma lucidum, is fungus with a woody texture mostly found in Asia. According to a study, polysaccharides and water extract from the mushroom can help treat cognitive decline^[9].

Cordyceps

Cordyceps contain an active compound known as polypeptide complexes, which may help improve learning memory and also protect the nervous system^[10].

Incorporating Mushrooms into Your Diet

Mushrooms are a wonderful addition to your diet. Here are a few ways to incorporate mushrooms into your diet.

Meal plan

You can add mushrooms to your meal plan by making them part of your breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Try adding them to foods such as scrambled eggs and, sandwiches, and salads.

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For the advanced culinary folks try adding mushrooms soup, broth, and stew for a richer flavor. You can also sautee mushrooms and add it to other meals like pasta for a tasty and nutritious evening.

Snacks

Opting for mushrooms as a snack can be an additional way to incorporate them into your diet. Mixing mushrooms with olive oil and baking them in the oven can serve as a crispy and savory snack.

Dietary supplement

Although mushrooms as food is recommended as the first choice, mushrooms powder can also serve as an over the counter supplement. You can add mushroom powder to shakes, smoothies, tea, and other beverages.

Mushroom dietary supplements are not restricted to powder form. They are also available in pills.